Fences

The Fences Bylaw (PDF) outlines restrictions on the height of fences and requirements of fencing around certain back yard pools.

Property fences

The basic fence requirements are listed below:

There is no regulation that affects which way the "good" side of the fence faces. The homeowner makes that determination
The homeowner should determine the property line by reviewing their property survey
If there is a dispute or if the exact property line cannot be determined, an Ontario Land Surveyor should be consulted. If an owner wishes to construct a fence on the property line between two properties, they should discuss the fence proposal with their neighbours. See information about the Line Fences Act

Fences on interior lots

Front yard fences cannot be higher than 0.91 m (3 ft) and cannot obstruct the visibility of motorists or pedestrians
Rear/side yard fences cannot be higher than 1.81 m (6 ft)

Fences on corner lots

Cannot exceed 0.91 m (3 ft) in height and cannot obstruct the visibility of motorists or pedestrians
In a rear/side yard, may not exceed a height of 1.81 m (6 ft) provided the side fence is set back a minimum of 4.57 m (15 ft) from the exterior side lot line

Swimming pool fences

Every year, approximately 58 children die from drowning in Canada and almost half those occur in swimming pools. To protect yourself, your children and others in the neighbourhood, follow the restrictions set out in the fences bylaw.

These include:

Everyone who owns a swimming pool is required to erect and maintain a swimming pool enclosure
A Swimming Pool Enclosure Permit (PDF) is required from the County of Brant Building division
Swimming pool installers should reference the Notice Regarding Lot Grading Requirements (PDF) prior to submitting the Swimming Pool Enclosure Permit
Once a pool enclosure has been completed, the owner must request a final inspection from the building department
The pool enclosure must be a minimum of 1.22 m (4 ft) in height
The pool enclosure shall be located at a distance of at least 1.22 m (4 ft) from any outside structure, fence, tree, air conditioning unit, meter, steps, ledge, window sill or other object that might compromise the safety of the swimming pool enclosure
The pool enclosure must be located at a distance of not less than 1.22 m (4 ft) from the nearest inside wetted surface of the swimming pool wall
A fence may be constructed of chain link, vertical board or approved equivalent
There are specific requirements for gates and entrances to the swimming pool enclosure

Above-ground pools

A fence is not required for an above ground pool if the walls of the pool are at least 1.22 m (4 ft) in height
The pool ladder must be removed or locked in an upright position to prevent access to the swimming pool when not in use
Swimming pool walls must be at least 1.22 m (4 ft) from other objects including, but not limited to trees and swimming pool equipment such as heater and filter and free form angled side supports which could provide access to the swimming pool
A vinyl, free form pool is acceptable as long as it is tightly secured with a lockable cover, manufactured for that purpose, or an equally secure alternative and is locked and covered when not supervised

How to apply

To apply for a Fence Variance Application, complete the Fence Variance Application Form.

View the full Fences Bylaw (PDF)

Report a Complaint Online

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Fences

Property fences

Swimming pool fences