If you’re building a fence or planting trees, hedges or shrubs that will act as a fence, it will need to comply with the Fence By-law.
You cannot build a fence on City property, highways or road allowances. Your residential fence cannot be made of barbed wire or any other hazardous material.
Fences are either open construction, which means at least one-third of the fence must be see through. Fences can also be closed construction, which means you cannot see through them.
Fence locations and maximum height
You may not need a permit to build a fence in most cases, but the maximum height depends on where it will be located on your property.
If the fence is in the back yard or side yard it must be:
- Maximum 2 metres high (excluding hedges, shrubs or trees that act like a fence)
- If your backyard is next to a neighbour’s front yard, the fence must be open construction if it’s within 4.5 metres of the neighbour’s driveway
If the fence is in the front yard, it must be:
- Maximum 1 metre high
- Maximum 1.5 metres high if open construction
For corner lot fences or fences within a sight triangle, refer to the by-law.
Fence exemptions
If you’re planning on building a fence which does not comply with the by-law, you can apply for a fence exemption.
To apply for a fence exemption, you must complete the Fence Exemption Application Form, pay the fee of $350.68 (including HST), and also submit the following documents:
- Property survey
- Site plan
- Specifications of the fence, including description, construction, installation, and whether it will be permanent or temporary
- Reference to the section of the by-law from which the exemption is being sought and why
- Letter of authority from the legal property owner, if applicable
- At least two photographs of the property showing the existing or proposed fence location and surrounding elements
You can book an appointment to submit your application in person at the Compliance and Licensing Enforcement Office.
Or mail your completed application form, documents and cheque or money order, made payable to the City of Mississauga, to:
Compliance and Licensing Enforcement
3232 Mavis Road
Mississauga ON L5C 1T7
Boundary line fences
A boundary line or division fence is located on the lot line between two properties. Any disputes related to the location or price of the fence must be settled between the property owners.
Although the City does not get involved in division fence disputes, here are some resources to help you come to an agreement with your neighbour:
- A step-by-step guide to the Division Fence Procedure
- Let your neighbour know that you intend to build a division fence with a Notice of Intent Sample Letter
- Advise your neighbour the fence has been constructed and request payment with a Notice of Completion Sample Letter
For more information, check the Line Fences Act.
Damaged fences
All fences on private property must be kept in good repair.
If you see a damaged or dilapidated fence, you can report a neglected property or call 311 (905-615-4311 outside City limits).