Property lines and easements before you build a fence

A fence is only as good as the line it follows. Building on the wrong side of a boundary, or across an easement, can mean tearing it out. Before you sign an estimate, get the right documents in hand. This page explains the terms and how we handle them on an estimate. It is general information, not legal advice or a survey.

Three things that shape where a fence can go

The boundary line. The legal edge of your lot. The fence can sit on your side of it, and where it sits exactly may matter to your neighbor. Easements. Strips of your lot where a utility, drainage authority or the neighborhood has a right to access. They are common along rear and side lot lines in newer subdivisions. Setbacks. Distances from the street or from other structures set by the plat, the HOA or the city. They often affect front and corner-lot fences the most.

What to gather before the estimate

• Your survey or plot plan, if you have one.
• The recorded plat for your subdivision, which shows easements.
• Your HOA fence guidelines, and any prior approval.
• Photos of the existing fence, gates and any obstacles.
• Locations of sprinkler heads, pool equipment, utilities and trees.

Easements in practice

Many Katy-area lots have utility and drainage easements along the back or side, and drainage swales along side lot lines are common in some sections. A fence can often cross an easement, but the holder of the easement may have the right to remove it for access, and you would pay to rebuild. Drainage matters too: a solid fence that blocks a swale can hold water in a yard or push it toward a neighbor. We look at grade and drainage when we walk the fence line.

Utilities and 811

Texas requires anyone digging to notify the one-call center before excavation so buried lines are marked. Post holes count as digging. Ask your contractor who makes the call and when. See the source list for the Texas811 site.

Related: who pays for a shared fence, HOA fence rules and permits by jurisdiction.

Last reviewed September 2026. Local rules and prices change; confirm details with 76 Fence, your HOA and your city or county.