Fences

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 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
• 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 please refer to the by-law.

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 according to the by-law.

If you see a damaged or dilapidated fence you can report a neglected property or call 311 (905-615-4311 outside City limits).