The height requirements for fences in Victoria differ depending on whether it is a front fence, side or rear boundary fence, or a pool safety barrier.
If you plan to build a new fence there are several things you will need to consider, including whether you will need a building or planning permit.
We have put together the below information to help explain fencing requirements, and when a building permit is required to construct a fence.
Fencing considerations
The type and height of a fence may be restricted depending on its location, what material it's made of, and the zone and any overlays that are specific to your property. You should check:
- Planning overlays - please contact Council's Statutory Planning team to check if there is an overlay covering your property, or if the zoning includes any fencing requirements.
- Section 173 Agreements, Covenants or Easements - these will be listed on your title certificate.
- Developers Design Guidelines for new subdivisions - check your Contract of Sale and Section 32 documents for these details.
It is the owners responsibility to comply with all restrictions listed on the relevant Title Certificate.
When is a building permit required to build a fence?
A Building Permit is required for construction of a fence if:
- The fence is more than 2m high (regardless of materials used or location)
- The fence contains barbed wire or sharp protrusions and is constructed adjacent to a street alignment
- The fence forms part of the swimming pool or spa pool safety barrier In some circumstances, retaining walls forming part of the fence construction may also require a building permit
Front fencing
- The front fence is more than 1.5m high, constructed of lightweight materials, and is located within 3m of a front property boundary
- The front fence is more than 1.2m high, constructed of concrete or masonry, and is located within 3m of a front property boundary
- The corner fence is more than 1m high when measured from the footpath level (regardless of materials used) and is located within 9m of the intersection of property boundaries
For more information on building permits for fencing, please contact a member of the Building Services team on 5366 7100
Allowable fence heights
Maximum allowable fence heights are prescribed by Division 4 of Part 5 of the Building Regulations 2018.
Street alignment means the line between a street and an allotment
Declared road means a freeway or arterial road within the meaning of the Road Management Act 2004
Front / corner fences located within 9m of an intersection of a street alignment must not exceed 1m in height.
Front fences must not exceed the following heights, if constructed within 3m from a street alignment:
- 2m for a declared road
- 1.5m for any other street
Fences erected along side and rear boundaries, which are not within 3m of a street alignment, must not exceed 2m in height.
Fences exceeding these heights may be possible in certain circumstances. You will need to obtain a building permit and apply to Council for 'Report and Consent'.
Existing residential fences
Construction of a new fence, or replacement of a dilapidated fence along the common boundary between two residential properties is a civil matter, which does not require Council’s involvement, subject to a building permit exemption. This process is regulated by the Fences Act.
For information on existing residential fences please visit our Neighbouring fence information page. This page also offers advice and steps you can take if you don't know your neighbour, or there is a dispute between neighbours regarding fencing.
I have a dispute with my neighbour, what can I do?
Disputes regarding fencing between neighbours is a civil matter. As such Council cannot intervene.
You can get in touch with the dispute settlement centre to assist with resolving a fencing dispute.
Homepage | Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
This fencing information is provided as a guide only. If after reviewing this information you need further advice, you can discuss your specific situation with a member of the Building Services team by calling 5366 7100.