When a wooden fence between two homes begins to sag or crumble, the first question many Lubbock residents ask is who should foot the repair bill. The answer isn’t as simple as “both owners share the cost.” Lubbock’s City Code provides clear guidance on when a fence is jointly owned and when it belongs to a single property owner.

What the city code says

According to the Lubbock City Code Ordinance, a fence that sits directly on the property line and was funded by both neighbors can be considered jointly owned. In that situation, each party is generally responsible for half of any repair or replacement expenses.

However, the ordinance also notes that if one neighbor paid for the entire fence, the structure may legally belong to that neighbor—even if the fence serves the practical purpose of keeping pets or belongings contained. The key factor is the source of the original funding, not merely the fence’s location.

When the fence is on one side of the line

If a survey shows that the fence lies entirely within one parcel, the fence is treated as the property of the owner whose land it occupies. That owner may choose to maintain, replace, or remove the fence without needing consent from the adjacent neighbor.

Because many property lines are not perfectly marked, a homeowner who is unsure of the exact boundary should consider hiring a licensed surveyor. A professional survey often costs less than a prolonged dispute and can provide the documentation needed to resolve ownership questions.

No automatic split‑cost rule in Texas

Unlike some states that have statutes requiring neighbors to share fence expenses, Texas law does not impose a blanket “split the cost” requirement. The Lubbock ordinance reflects this statewide approach: cost‑sharing is a matter of agreement, not a legal mandate.

Neighbors who wish to share repair costs should put their arrangement in writing. A simple written agreement can prevent misunderstandings and protect both parties if the fence later requires additional work.

Practical steps for homeowners

• Check the property line. Review your deed, plat map, or recent survey to see where the boundary lies.
• Determine funding history. If you know who paid for the original fence, that information will influence ownership.
• Get a professional survey. When the line is unclear, a licensed surveyor can provide an accurate measurement.
• Discuss costs openly. If the fence is jointly owned, negotiate a fair split and document the agreement.
• Consider written agreements. Even informal arrangements benefit from a written record signed by both parties.

By taking these steps, Lubbock homeowners can avoid costly feuds that linger as long as a mortgage. Good neighborly relations start with clear facts, not assumptions.

Where to find more information

The full text of the Lubbock City Code Ordinance is available on the city’s official website. Homeowners can also contact the Lubbard Planning and Development Department for guidance on property‑line questions and recommended surveyors in the area.

Original reporting: News/Talk 790 KFYO (Lubbock) — read the source article.