The neighbor gets to enjoy the pretty, finished side of the fence.
Understanding Fence Etiquette: Who Sees the Pretty Side?
When a fence is installed between properties, common etiquette dictates that the more aesthetically pleasing, finished side should face outward toward the neighbor's property. This practice fosters good neighborly relations and contributes to the visual appeal of both properties.
What is the "Pretty Side" of a Fence?
The "pretty side," also known as the "finished side" or "good side," is the smoother, more polished face of the fence. It is free of the structural components like rails, posts, and pickets or panels that are typically visible on the interior side. This is especially true for solid panel fences, which are often used for privacy and are constructed with a distinct finished side.
For example, in a typical wood privacy fence:
| Feature | Pretty (Finished) Side | Post (Unfinished) Side |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Smooth, uniform planks/panels | Exposed rails, posts, and often pickets |
| Visual Appeal | More polished and aesthetically pleasing | Shows structural components |
| Placement | Faces the neighbor's property | Faces the property of the fence owner |
Why Does the Neighbor Get the Good Side?
The tradition of facing the finished side towards the neighbor is rooted in principles of courtesy and community aesthetics. The person who pays for and installs the fence chooses to make an investment that benefits their property (privacy, security, boundary definition). By presenting the more attractive side to their neighbor, they demonstrate consideration for their neighbor's view and property value, even though they themselves will see the side with the posts and rails.
- Goodwill: It's a gesture of neighborliness that can help prevent disputes and foster positive relationships.
- Aesthetics: It ensures that the most visible side of the fence from the public or adjacent property is visually appealing.
- Standard Practice: This has become a widely accepted standard in fence installation, often even codified in local zoning laws or homeowner association (HOA) regulations.
Key Considerations for Fence Installation
While the general rule of the "pretty side" facing the neighbor holds true, it's always advisable to:
- Communicate with Neighbors: Discuss fence plans with your neighbors beforehand to ensure mutual understanding and agreement on placement and aesthetics.
- Check Local Ordinances: Some municipalities or HOAs have specific rules regarding fence height, materials, and which side must face outward.
- Shared Fences: In cases where neighbors decide to share the cost of a fence, agreements can vary regarding which side faces which property, or a "good on both sides" fence design might be chosen.
