Texas Fencing Laws
A Landowners Guide
October 10, 2023
Introduction
Texas fencing laws are complex and can vary depending on the location. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Texas fencing laws, including liabilities for livestock in highways, roadways, county roads, and neighboring land, as well as how hiring a fencing contractor is an important part of staying within the bounds of Texas fencing laws.
Liabilities for Livestock in Highways, Roadways, and County Roads
Under Texas law, livestock owners are liable for damages caused by their livestock if the livestock is trespassing on a highway, roadway, or county road. This includes damages to vehicles, property, and people.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, livestock owners are not liable for damages if the livestock is on the road due to the negligence of a third party, such as a driver who hits the livestock. Additionally, livestock owners are not liable for damages if the livestock is on the road because the fence that was supposed to contain the livestock was damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster.
Liabilities for Livestock on Neighboring Land
If livestock trespasses on neighboring land, the livestock owner is liable for any damages caused by the livestock. This includes damage to crops, property, and livestock.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, livestock owners are not liable for damages if the livestock is on the neighboring land because the fence that was supposed to contain the livestock was damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster. Additionally, livestock owners are not liable for damages if the neighbor failed to maintain their fence.
Fencing Requirements
Texas law does not require livestock owners to fence their property. However, if a livestock owner chooses to fence their property, the fence must be of sufficient height and strength to contain their livestock.
Additionally, Texas law does require livestock owners to fence their livestock from highways and roadways. The fence must be at least four feet high and must be constructed in a way that prevents the livestock from escaping.
Hiring a Fencing Contractor
Hiring a fencing contractor is an important part of staying within the bounds of Texas fencing laws. A fencing contractor will know the specific fencing requirements for your property and location, and they will be able to install a fence that meets those requirements.
Benefits of Hiring a Fencing Contractor
There are many benefits to hiring a fencing contractor, including:
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your fence is installed correctly and meets all applicable laws and regulations can give you peace of mind.
- Professional results: Fencing contractors have the experience and expertise to install a fence that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Warranty: Many fencing contractors offer warranties on their work, so you can be confident that your fence will be protected in the event of any problems.
Conclusion
Texas fencing laws are complex and can vary depending on the location. It is important for livestock owners to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under Texas law. Hiring a fencing contractor is an important part of staying within the bounds of Texas fencing laws.
Additional tips for livestock owners
- Keep your fences in good repair.
- Make sure your fences are high enough and strong enough to contain your livestock.
- Be aware of your fencing obligations under Texas law.
- If you have a dispute with a neighbor about a fence, try to resolve the dispute yourselves. If you cannot resolve the dispute, you may need to go to court.
Additional tips for hiring a fencing contractor
- Get multiple quotes from different contractors.
Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. - Ask about the contractor's experience installing fences for livestock owners.
- Get everything in writing, including the cost of the fence, the installation timeline, and the warranty.
When Experience Counts
Count of Fred Nuncio's Fencing and Construction for your ranch.