Can a neighbour put lights on my fence?

No, generally, your neighbor cannot put lights on your fence without your permission. Here are the key points to consider:

Legal Considerations:

1. Property Rights:
   A fence is typically considered part of your property, and you have ownership rights over it. This means your neighbor does not have the right to attach or install anything (including lights) to your fence without your consent.

2. Light Nuisance:
   Even if your neighbor installs lights on your fence with your permission, it could still create a light nuisance (i.e., excessive light that spills over into your property), which may affect your right to enjoy your own property in peace. In this case, you could seek resolution through local councils or legal action if the lighting becomes problematic.

3. Trespassing:
   If your neighbor installs lights on your fence without permission, it may be considered trespassing. Trespassing is generally defined as unlawfully entering or interfering with someone else's property. If the lights are physically affixed to your fence or cause damage, it can be considered trespass, and you may have legal grounds to ask for them to be removed.

Steps You Can Take:

1. Communication:
   The first step should always be to talk to your neighbor. If they haven't installed the lights yet, express your concerns about the lighting's impact on your property and ask for their understanding. If they have already installed lights, ask them politely to remove them or relocate them in a way that doesn’t interfere with your space.

2. Seek Mediation:
   If a direct conversation does not resolve the issue, consider seeking mediation. Many communities offer free or low-cost mediation services to help resolve disputes between neighbors. This can help both parties reach a mutually acceptable solution.

3. Consult a Legal Professional:
   If the issue persists and you are unable to come to an agreement with your neighbor, you may want to consult a lawyer or property expert to discuss your rights. They can provide guidance on how to proceed, whether that means sending a formal request for removal, negotiating compensation for the inconvenience, or pursuing legal action.

How to Prevent Future Issues:

• Install Clear Property Boundaries: Make sure your fence is well-defined and that both you and your neighbors understand where your property lines are.
• Discuss Outdoor Lighting Expectations: If you live in close proximity to neighbors (e.g., a semi-detached home), it’s often best to have a conversation about outdoor lighting to avoid potential disputes in the future.

In general, while your neighbor may not legally have the right to attach lights to your fence without permission, the situation can be resolved through polite communication and, if necessary, legal steps.