When you discover that a neighbor’s fence is encroaching on your property, it’s natural to wonder: Can I remove my neighbor’s fence if it crosses the property line? This is a common concern for homeowners across the U.S., especially in rural and suburban areas like Wyoming, where property boundaries aren’t always clearly marked.
In this guide, we’ll walk through your legal rights, best steps to take, and how to resolve the situation peacefully — while protecting your property and avoiding lawsuits.
Understanding Property Lines and Fence Disputes
The first and most important factor in any fence disagreement is knowing exactly where your legal property line begins and ends. Just assuming where the boundary lies isn’t enough. Property line confusion is one of the leading causes of real estate disputes in Wyoming and beyond.
To confirm property lines:
- Review your deed and property survey.
- Check for official land records or plat maps.
- Hire a licensed land surveyor if boundaries are unclear.
Once you’re sure the fence is on your side, you may have legal grounds to take action — but it’s essential to follow the proper steps.
So, Can You Remove a Neighbor’s Fence on Your Land?
Technically, yes — if the fence is encroaching onto your property, you have the right to request its removal. However, the key word is “request.” Simply tearing it down without notice can lead to trespassing, vandalism, or civil court disputes.
✅ Before removing the fence, you should:
- Get a professional survey showing the exact encroachment.
- Inform your neighbor in writing with evidence.
- Ask politely for them to move or remove the fence.
- If they refuse, seek legal advice or mediation.
Even if the fence is clearly on your land, the law favors resolution through communication before action.
What Are the Fence Laws in Wyoming?
In Wyoming, property and fence disputes fall under civil law. Most counties — like Natrona, Laramie, and Teton — follow general state guidelines but may have additional zoning or fencing regulations.
Key facts about Wyoming fence laws:
- Fences must not cross property lines without mutual agreement.
- There are no statewide setback rules, but local ordinances may apply.
- If a fence remains on your land for years and you don’t object, your neighbor could eventually claim that space through “adverse possession.”
That’s why timing is critical. As soon as you spot an encroachment, act quickly — especially before selling or buying a property.
How to Talk to Your Neighbor About Fence Issues
The best strategy is always communication. Even if you’re frustrated, it’s wise to stay calm and respectful.
Tips for approaching your neighbor:
- Show them your survey or title documents.
- Be clear that you’re not trying to cause problems, just protect your legal rights.
- Offer solutions: splitting fence costs, moving it jointly, or using a fence contractor.
- Put agreements in writing, even informal ones.
Most people will be cooperative if approached the right way.
What Happens If Your Neighbor Refuses to Cooperate?
If your neighbor ignores your request or gets defensive, you still have options:
- Hire a real estate attorney for a letter of notice.
- Use a mediator to find neutral ground.
- File a civil claim in small claims or local district court.
- Request a court-ordered fence removal if necessary.
Legal action should be your last resort, but it’s available if peaceful efforts fail. Be sure to document everything — photos, surveys, letters, and conversations — to strengthen your case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re dealing with a fence on your land, avoid these legal missteps:
❌ Don’t destroy or damage the fence without notice
❌ Don’t confront your neighbor aggressively
❌ Don’t skip getting a professional land survey
❌ Don’t assume a handshake agreement will hold in court
Smart homeowners in Wyoming understand that small boundary issues can become major legal headaches if handled poorly. When in doubt, seek expert help.
Preventing Future Fence Problems
Want to avoid this problem in the future? Here are a few smart moves:
- Always build your fence a few inches inside your own property line
- Use visible markers or landscaping to clarify boundaries
- Get a written agreement before allowing shared fences
- Record any agreements with the county (if allowed)
If you’re buying a home in Wyoming or planning a new build, review local fence laws and get a survey before installing anything permanent. Go to Zillow.com for our reference for buying best locations rooms and apart.
