Property Line and Fence Laws in Connecticut
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed November 28, 2017
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Sometimes people take their good relationships with neighbors for granted. They live side by side for years without incident until one day it all goes downhill because of a disagreement. The argument escalates and suddenly you find yourself in the middle of an intense neighbor dispute. Most likely, the cause of the dispute involves a boundary line, fence, or tree issue since these are some of the most common causes for neighbor-to-neighbor conflict. The best bet is to try to work out your differences through mutual communication with freedom from the formalities of the law. But if that approach isn't working, Connecticut state laws exist to provide answers to your questions regarding property line and fence law issues.
Fence Laws in Connecticut
Establishing the property line can be the first step in addressing neighbor conflicts since the exact location itself might be in dispute. In order to determine where your property ends, you may have to conduct a survey. When fences are situated on the boundary line between adjoining properties, a lot of issues arise. For instance, owners of a division fence might have a disagreement about maintaining the repairs for the fence.
In Connecticut, owners can appeal to "selectmen" who act as fence viewers with the authority to administer and enforce fence laws. If the selectmen agree that the repairs should be completed, they will give written notice to the non-complying party to make the repairs. If the repairs are not completed within 15 days of the notice, then the aggrieved owner can make the repairs and recover costs from the other owner.
Another fence issue that comes up between neighbors involves the building of "spite fences." This is the type of fence that has no valuable purpose and is constructed solely to annoy or injure the neighbor. In Connecticut, you can get an injunction or money damages if your neighbor builds one.
Tree Trimming Laws in Connecticut
Trees and the issues associated with them are another area that can cause neighbor disputes. Tree trimming is usually acceptable, but a person who damages a neighboring tree can be liable to the owner. That's why you should check with your neighbor and the local ordinances before taking any action.
Connecticut Property Line and Fence Laws at a Glance
The chart below provides a summary of state laws related to property line and fence laws in Connecticut, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
|
Division Fence: Repairs |
|
Spite Fences |
|
Tree Damage |
|
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Property Line and Fence Laws in Connecticut: Related Resources
- Connecticut Property and Real Estate Law
- Fencing Laws and Your Neighbors: FAQs
- Property Boundaries, Lines, and Neighbors
- Neighbors and Trees
Get Help With Your Property Dispute From a Connecticut Attorney
If you're experiencing a neighbor dispute, don't let it get to the point of causing irreparable harm to your neighborhood relationships. The best thing to do is to talk to an experienced real estate attorney right away. Consider getting professional help from a Connecticut real estate attorney, who can help you assess your case and your options.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.