Fence law decides who keeps up a boundary fence

In Missouri, “fence law” decides who keeps up a fence on a property line. The rules can change from county to county. Counties either follow the general state law or a “local option” they have voted to adopt. This matters in Shelby County, where people raise cattle and grow crops. New rural landowners are often surprised by it. You might buy some land and learn that you share a boundary fence, and its upkeep, with your neighbor. Fights over who fixes the fence are a common rural headache. So before you decide a fence is only the neighbor’s job, find out how the law works where you live. University of Missouri Extension offers easy-to-read fence-law guides. The full rules are written in Missouri state law. When in doubt, check with your local Extension office.