Torrance Neighbor Fence Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Fence disputes between neighbors in Torrance are primarily governed by California Civil Code Section 841, which establishes a presumption that adjoining landowners share equal responsibility for the reasonable costs of constructing, maintaining, and replacing a boundary fence. This means if a shared fence needs repair, both neighbors are generally expected to contribute equally to the cost.

The Torrance Code Enforcement Division does not have authority to resolve most neighbor fence disputes, as these are considered civil matters. However, Code Enforcement will investigate and enforce violations of the Torrance Municipal Code, such as fences exceeding the permitted height (6 feet in rear/side yards, 4 feet in front yards) or fences built without required permits.

For neighbor disputes that cannot be resolved directly, the City recommends contacting Dispute Resolution services or pursuing the matter through the court system. Code Enforcement also notes that they do not require property owners to trim vegetation that overhangs onto a neighbor's property unless it impedes public right-of-way or poses a health/safety risk. Homeowners may trim overhanging branches or roots up to the property line at their own expense.