What Exactly is a “Good Neighbor” Fence?
In the world of North Texas fencing, the term “Good Neighbor” refers to a specific style of construction and a set of local etiquette rules designed to ensure that no one is left looking at the “ugly” side of a fence. Because our communities in Forney, Wylie, and Mesquite are so closely knit, how you build your fence significantly impacts your property’s curb appeal and your relationship with those next door.
There are two primary ways to interpret the “Good Neighbor” standard: the structural orientation (who gets the smooth side) and the alternating style (sharing the aesthetic).
1. The “Finished Side” Requirement
Most municipalities and HOAs across the DFW Metroplex have a mandatory “Finished Side Out” rule. This means that any fence facing a public right-of-way—such as a street, an alley, a park, or a greenbelt—must be installed so that the pickets are on the outside.
- The “Back” Side: This is the structural side where the galvanized steel posts and horizontal rails are visible. In a standard setup, this side faces into your yard.
- The “Finished” Side: This is the smooth side where only the cedar pickets are visible. This side must face the public or the neighbor, depending on local code.
2. The Alternating “Good Neighbor” Style
If you and your neighbor are splitting the cost of a fence and both want a “finished” look, the Shadowbox or Alternating Picket style is the true “Good Neighbor” fence.
In this design, the pickets are nailed to the rails in an alternating pattern—one on your side, one on the neighbor’s side.
- Visual Appeal: Both sides of the fence look identical. No one is stuck looking at just the posts and rails.
- Airflow: Because the pickets are offset, air can flow through the fence, which reduces wind resistance during heavy North Texas storms.
- Privacy: While it offers great privacy from a direct angle, you can see through it slightly when looking at a sharp diagonal.
3. Structural Integrity and “Good Neighbor” Rules
A common misconception is that a “Good Neighbor” fence is weaker because of the picket placement. However, when using professional-grade materials, the strength remains the same.
- Post Placement: Whether the pickets are on your side or the neighbor’s, the 2-3/8″ galvanized steel posts must be set in a deep concrete footer to withstand the shifting clay soil.
- Rail Support: We recommend three horizontal rails for any fence 6 feet or taller. This prevents the pickets from warping or “pulling” away from the structure over time.
4. Property Line Etiquette
In Texas, unless there is a specific local ordinance or HOA rule, you are generally not legally required to split the cost of a fence with a neighbor. However, a “Good Neighbor” approach involves communication:
- Consult the Survey: Never assume the old fence was on the property line. Locate your iron property pins to ensure the new fence is correctly placed.
- Discuss the Style: If you plan on a 6-foot board-on-board fence but your neighbor prefers a 4-foot ornamental iron, it is best to discuss these differences before the posts are set.
- The “Post” Conversation: If you are paying for the fence entirely yourself, you generally have the right to keep the “finished” side for yourself, unless the fence faces a public street or is restricted by your HOA.
Why Quality Matters for Neighbors
A sagging, rotting, or leaning fence doesn’t just hurt your home’s value—it affects your neighbor’s value too. Using #1 Grade Western Red Cedar and Steel Posts ensures that the fence remains a beautiful, upright boundary for both parties for decades. Choosing professional-grade materials is the ultimate “Good Neighbor” move, as it prevents the need for constant repairs and disputes over a failing structure.
