The recent rejection of North Hempstead’s proposed fence-height law highlights critical safety and liability issues for property owners—issues that could have serious legal consequences.
Last week, the North Hempstead Town Board voted against a proposal to raise residential fence heights from 5 feet to 6 feet (and 8 feet near industrial zones), as reported by the Long Island Press. While supporters argued taller fences would reduce noise and boost security for homes near busy roads like I U Willets Road, opponents cited “unsightly visuals” and safety concerns. As premises liability attorneys, we view this decision as a springboard for discussing property owners’ legal responsibilities.
Why Fence Regulations Matter in Premises Liability Cases
Safety vs. Aesthetics:
Current town code caps most residential fences at 5 feet (6 feet for pools). Opponents called taller fences “dangerous,” but inadequate barriers can create hazardous conditions. Consider these examples:
- Low fencing near high-traffic roads increases risks for children and pedestrians
- Insufficient security measures might invite trespassers or criminal activity
Legal implication: Property owners could face negligence claims if injuries occur due to preventable hazards.
The Enforcement Gap:
Deputy Building Commissioner Stephen Haramis admitted fence violations are rarely enforced unless reported. This creates inconsistency and leaves some property owners vulnerable to:
- Liability if unpermitted structures contribute to injuries
- Costly variance processes through the Board of Zoning Appeals
The sporadic enforcement pattern means many violations go unnoticed until someone gets hurt. Property owners who assume their non-compliant fences are acceptable may face unexpected legal exposure.
Protecting Yourself Legally
Property owners should take proactive steps to minimize legal risks:
Audit your premises: Check that fences comply with town codes regarding height, materials, and maintenance standards. Many property owners overlook these requirements until problems arise. Refer to the North Hempstead’s municipal code for specific fence regulations.
Prioritize hazard prevention: Consider living fences, which face no height restrictions, for noise reduction and security without violating ordinances. These natural barriers can provide effective screening while staying within legal boundaries.
Document everything: If authorities deny a variance or cite violations, preserve all records for potential legal defense. This documentation becomes crucial if liability issues emerge later.
Regular maintenance also plays a vital role in liability prevention. Damaged or deteriorating fences can create dangerous conditions that expose property owners to legal claims.
If You’ve Been Injured Due to Unsafe Property Conditions
Accidents involving inadequate fencing, poor maintenance, or code violations may entitle victims to compensation for:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment costs
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions. When they fail to address known hazards or ignore safety regulations, injured parties may have grounds for legal action.
The burden of proof in premises liability cases often centers on whether the property owner knew or should have known about dangerous conditions. Fence-related injuries frequently involve questions about adequate barriers, proper maintenance, and compliance with local safety codes.
The Bottom Line
The fence debate underscores a universal truth: Property safety goes beyond simple compliance—it’s about preventing foreseeable harm. Property owners who take a reactive approach to safety often find themselves facing costly legal battles that could have been avoided through proactive measures.
Local regulations exist to protect both property owners and the public. While these rules may seem restrictive, they provide important legal protections when followed properly. Property owners who ignore or circumvent these requirements do so at their own risk.
At The Law Office of Jason Tenenbaum, P.C., we help property owners understand local regulations and assist injury victims in pursuing justice. Our experience with premises liability cases gives us insight into how seemingly minor safety issues can lead to significant legal consequences.
Whether you’re a property owner seeking to prevent liability or an injury victim pursuing compensation, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. The North Hempstead fence debate illustrates how local policy decisions can have far-reaching implications for property safety and legal responsibility.
Injured due to unsafe property conditions? Don’t handle complex liability laws alone.
📞 Call us today at 516-750-0595 for a free case evaluation. Let our expertise in premises liability law protect your rights and well-being.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
