Knowledge Base

Are you thinking about building or updating a fence on your residential property? It’s important to understand the regulations and requirements to ensure your fence project is compliant with local zoning and building codes. Below is a summary of the key guidelines regarding fence construction and maintenance in Residential Districts.

1. No Development Permit Required (Under Specific Conditions)

In most cases, a Development Permit is not required for constructing or maintaining a fence or wall within a Residential District, provided the fence meets the minimum requirements as outlined in the Land Use Bylaw.

2. Fence Height Limitations

To maintain the aesthetic and safety standards of your neighborhood, there are limits on fence heights based on their location:

• Side & Rear Yards:

  • Maximum height: 1.9 meters (6.3 feet) above grade

• Front Yards:

  • Maximum height: 1.0 meter (3.3 feet) above grade

• Gates:

  • Maximum height: 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) at the highest point, provided the gate is not longer than 2.5 meters (8.2 feet)

• Sightline Protection Areas:

  • Maximum height: 1.0 meter (3.3 feet) within the designated sightline area (for safety reasons).

3. Corner Site Considerations

If your property is a corner site, the height of your fence or hedge must comply with specific regulations to ensure adequate visibility and safety. The fence must be no higher than the specified height within the minimum required flanking side yard.

4. Special Height Allowance for Screening and Sound Attenuation

In certain situations, you may be allowed to increase the height of your fence for sound attenuation or to provide visual screening. These circumstances apply when:

• Your property is adjacent to a main collector or arterial roadway or near a railway.

• Your property is adjacent to a non-residential use that generates higher levels of traffic than typically expected in a residential area.

In these cases, rear or side yard fences may be allowed to increase to a height of 2.44 meters (8.0 feet) to provide extra screening and noise reduction.

5. Fence Construction Standards

All fences must be made of permanent, durable materials and constructed in a way that they are sturdy and securely anchored to the ground. Fences should be freestanding, meaning they should not rely on any other structures for support.

6. Prohibited Fencing Materials

Certain materials are not allowed for residential fences:

• Barbed wire

• Electric wire

• Razor wire

These materials are prohibited to ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents and passersby.

7. Fencing Requirements for Specific Areas

The Development Authority may require that a fence or hedge be built to a height of at least 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) around specific areas of your property, such as:

• Outdoor storage areas

• Garbage and recycling collection areas

• Loading or vehicle service areas

These fences are required when such areas are visible from the street or from an adjacent residential property.

If you're planning to build or modify a fence on your property, make sure you’re fully informed on all local regulations and guidelines. For a more detailed overview of fence requirements, including diagrams and additional specifications, please check out our full brochure.

Fence Brochure