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

Boundary fence responsibilities between neighbors in West Covina are governed by California Civil Code Section 841, commonly known as the Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013. This state law creates a presumption that adjoining landowners benefit equally from a boundary fence and therefore share equally in the cost of constructing, maintaining, repairing, and replacing it. West Covina does not have a separate municipal ordinance that modifies or overrides the state framework, so Section 841 is the primary legal authority for neighbor fence cost-sharing disputes in the city.

Under Section 841, before commencing any construction, repair, or replacement of a boundary line fence, the initiating property owner must provide at least 30 days written notice to the adjoining property owner. This notice must include a description of the problem with the existing fence (or the need for a new one), the proposed solution including materials and design, an estimated cost for the project, and a proposed division of costs. The notice must be delivered by certified mail or personal delivery. The adjoining owner then has 30 days to respond with agreement, a counter-proposal, or an objection. If the adjoining owner fails to respond within 30 days, the initiating owner may proceed and seek reimbursement for the neighbor's share through small claims court.

There are exceptions to the equal cost-sharing presumption. An adjoining owner may be excused from contribution if the fence does not substantially benefit their property, if the cost is disproportionate to the benefit received, or if they can show financial hardship. A property owner who wants to build a fence of higher quality or greater expense than what is reasonably necessary cannot compel the neighbor to pay half of the premium cost — only the cost of a standard, reasonably adequate fence may be shared. Disputes that cannot be resolved through negotiation may be taken to small claims court (for claims up to $12,500) or civil court. Mediation through the Los Angeles County Bar Association's dispute resolution program is also available as an alternative.