Building a fence may seem like a simple project—but if it’s placed in the wrong location, it can lead to serious consequences. That’s why getting a property line survey before construction begins is so important, especially in California, where property laws and zoning rules can be particularly strict. Knowing exactly where your land begins and ends can protect you from disputes with neighbors, help you comply with local regulations, and ensure you don’t waste your investment. Here are the top five reasons why a property line survey is a must before installing a fence.
If your fence crosses even a few inches onto your neighbor’s land, it can lead to serious problems. They might ask you to remove the fence—or worse, take legal action against you.
Getting a boundary survey shows exactly where your property lines are, helping you avoid disputes and maintain good neighborly relations. This clear documentation ensures you only build on land you legally own.
Many California cities have rules about where you can put a fence, how tall it can be, and how far it should be from the street or sidewalk. If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners’ association (HOA), they might have their own rules too.
A survey helps you follow these rules so you don’t have to move or change the fence later.
Building a fence costs money—sometimes thousands of dollars. If you build in the wrong place, you may have to tear it down and start over.
Getting a survey first is a smart way to protect your money and avoid extra costs down the road.
In some areas, you need a building permit before you can put up a fence—especially if the fence is tall or your property is on a corner.
Having a survey can make it easier to get your permit because it shows where the fence will go and proves that it won’t break any rules.
A property line survey is also useful in the future. If you ever sell your house, it shows buyers where your land begins and ends. If you want to build something else—like a pool, shed, or garage—you already have a clear map of your land.
So even if you don’t use it right away, a survey can help you later on.
Putting up a fence can improve your home’s privacy, safety, and value—but only if it’s done right. Before you build, take the time to survey property line boundaries. It’s a simple step that can prevent legal trouble, save money, and give you peace of mind. In a state like California, where property rules can be strict, getting a land survey is a smart and responsible move.
