Pennsylvania property deeds define backyard boundaries precisely, dictating fence placement, shared responsibilities, and dispute resolution under state fence laws and the Doctrine of Consentable Lines. Homeowners bear full costs and maintenance for fences on their side of the line unless livestock or mutual agreements apply, with local codes varying heights and setbacks.​
Fence Placement Rules
Fences must sit entirely on your property or the exact surveyed line to avoid trespass claims; building on a neighbor’s land allows them to demand removal. The Doctrine of Consentable Lines lets adjoining owners agree on a boundary via long-term fence placement (21+ years), overriding deeds if unchallenged. Surveys from county Recorders of Deeds confirm lines; permits often require them plus zoning checks for heights (typically 6 feet max residential).​
Shared Responsibilities
No general duty exists for neighbors to share costs—your fence is your burden, even if it benefits them, unless both have livestock requiring joint fencing. Line fences become “party” structures with mutual upkeep if agreed or deeded as shared (check “T” or “H” symbols); damage by neighbors equals property vandalism. Local ordinances govern appearance (finished side out), pools (4+ feet self-latching), and hedges.​
Disputes and Remedies
Encroachments prompt written demands for correction; courts award removal costs, damages, or adverse possession if ignored long-term. Mediation via township zoning officers precedes suits; spite fences (maliciously tall/obstructive) violate nuisance laws. Consult deeds and local codes first to prevent litigation over backyard boundaries.​
SOURCES
[1](https://www.mvsklaw.com/what-is-pennsylvanias-fence-law/)
[2](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/pennsylvania/58-Pa-Code-SS-147-663)
[3](https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/lowerchichester/latest/lowerchi_pa/0-0-0-4885)
[4](https://www.justfences.com/post/understanding-local-fence-regulations-and-permits-in-pennsylvania)
[5](https://www.randsfence.com/single-post/2017/02/09/pa-fence-requirements-what-you-need-to-know)
