They help. Most fences around here are to keep pets home and safe, or for cattle, horses, llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats, etc., and protection for cemeteries, civil wat battlefields, historic preservation, etc. Most stone fences are for history preservation and looks. 8' tall deer fencing is common around vineyards. Fencing is required around swimming pools.

6ft block. I have great neighbors and we know each other's names and each other's pets names but overall we mind our own business. God bless the great state of Arizona!

I prefer walls and caves ... a fence alone does not make for a good neighbor. Even if I had a fence it would not change my neighbors. 

My neighbors planted bamboo for privacy which is fine as long as you keep it out of my property.

Fred, your question reminds me that I have led a bit of a "sheltered" life in some aspects because my mostly suburban-like lifestyle has featured a lifelong familiarity with  fences.   

They connect many neighbors and neighborhoods but I do understand the separation that can develop in the form of disputes, disagreements and an overall feeling of dismay. 

Yes, once again "it depends".  It's a situation that prompts perspective.  

The only reason I have a fence now is for my dog... previously our property lots were large enough for invisible fencing, which was the only fencing we had. I'm not all crazed about fencing to provide privacy. And besides, it's one more thing to maintain around the property.

That's what they say! Although I've heard lots of stories about neighbors fighting over the fences themselves...and what is growing over them, under them and through them!

I've been blessed to always have great neighbors (knocking on wood now)!

Yes on the fences and as far as developments within the city or more rural settings I guess that's open for discussion

As we await installation of a fence, I can definitely attest that something between parcels is a plus...  I do vote for a barrier AND acreage.  ;)

I think it has to do with the look of the fence and the reason for installation. We had a privacy fence between us and the house behind us. During a hurricane it fell. We both agreed it was a good thing and replaced it.

Block walls are common here in the Phoenix Metro area. Works fine and isn't an issue.  It took me awhile to get used to when I first moved here years ago....but it's all good as the views are incredible and keeps the pets safe!

Fred,

I am on the "fence" about this, and I would say, it depends.  On our large property in Napa, we had a fence mainly to keep the deer out....A

I don't really like fences. If you have a dog or a pool it is mandatory I think. 

Fencing big parcels is to keep the cattle or donkeys in their place.

We have six foot privacy fencing in most neighborhoods. 

Fences don’t bother me

I think the quote is incorrect, although the easier option.

GOOD NEIGHBORS MAKE GOOD FENCES is a more appropriate promise that does take a little investment in the community.
Here in Florida, when many homes have changed ownership many times, it is unclear who owns the fence. So when the hurricane blows the panels down, the not good neighbors won't come out of the house.

Hi Fred Griffin Tallahassee Real Estate 

Up here in the Northwest, fences are where people post angry signs directed at their neighbors

Fences are where Violent Drug Cartels tag their territory with spray paint

Fences are where real estate agents hang huge banners of their faces to advertise themselves 

Good fences are their own punishment

Others don't particularly respect them and law enforcement is busy being defunded and not real interested investigating why someone put a sign on another person's fence

Happy Selling!

Brad

As long as they are in the right place they can be good.

Being kind is an even more important part of being a good neighbor.

My nearest neighbor is at least a mile from our gate. Yes, I believe good fences between neighbors can lead to better relationships. Not all neighbors can get along. My daughter lived in a new growing community and made many great friendships that have lasted. Sometimes I wish I lived in a neighborhood, except I'm happy out here in the middle of nowhere and wouldn't be happy with rules for my piece of real estate. 

What a good question and I will be facing in the next few months. A barrier is a line of defense in a subdivision before you get to the property. Defense against what? Door-knockers, snoops and would be burglars. Anyone caught within your fence uninvited is suspect galore and all know this. As I write this, how sad is this but true? Rural property has its own dynamics. A nice, functional and asthetic fence is preferred & needed