Which Side to Install the Posts on Chain Length Fences

Zoning Ordinances

• Many communities, such as St. Louis Park, Minnesota, have an ordinance that says the good side of the fence must face the neighbor’s property or the street or vacant property. The good side of a chain link fence means that the chain link weave is attached to the outside -- on the side of the neighbor -- of the post and the posts are on your side. Always refer to your local ordinance before erecting a chain link fence for specifics about your ordinance.

Other Ordinance Requirements

• Other ordinances that pertain to chain link fence installation include the placement of the fence posts and the height of the fence. Communities may have a requirement that the fence posts should be installed inside of the property line, meaning, the post must be on your side of the property line. The fence height is another requirement some communities may have in place. Generally, chain link fences and any other fences cannot be more than 6 feet high. Some communities will require a permit before the construction of a chain link fence or any other fence. Always check local ordinances before starting a fencing project.

Transition Posts

• Transition fence posts are used for corners and areas where the fence starts and stops. The chain link fencing is centered on the inside of the transition post, so the post shows on the adjoining property and your property.

Gates

• The direction that the gate opens is usually not specified in community ordinances. You will need to check you local requirements just to clarify. Generally, you have a fence open inward toward your property, but if you can have the gate open outward if you don’t have enough room. If the gate will be on the side of an adjoining property, a joint agreement with the property owner should be made as to how the gate should open.