Fences

Fencing for residential properties is regulated by the City’s Land Use Bylaw C23-20 Land Use Bylaw.

Depending on where you live and what is adjacent to your property, there may be development regulations established by the Land Use Bylaw and the Engineering Servicing Standards for constructing, repairing, maintaining, or replacing an existing fence.

What are the general rules for fences?

• In most cases (exceptions may apply): 
  • In your side and rear yards, you can build a fence as tall as 1.85 m (6.0 ft).
  • In your front yard, you can build a fence as tall as 0.91 m (3.0 ft).
• Fences cannot be built on City property.
• For Zero Lot Line properties, fences may be permitted in the rear yards, but they are not permitted within the maintenance easements.
• When your property is on a corner (whether main roadways and/or rear lane), you will need to be mindful of the Sight Triangle requirements from the Land Use Bylaw. The City may require that any fencing be reduced in height to improve sight lines between pedestrians and motorists.

Do I need a permit for my fence?

You do not need a permit for your fence if it is within the heights described above and compliant with all other development regulations contained in the Land Use Bylaw. This would require fencing to be constructed entirely on your property and in accordance with the Standards when adjacent to City lands (roadway, parks, and other open spaces).

If you are planning to build a fence greater in height than described above, a development permit will be required.

Replacing a fence adjacent to the City land without adhering to the Land Use Bylaw and Standards requires a development permit.

What else do I need to know about building a fence?

Fencing adjacent to City Land (roadways, parks, and other open spaces) must follow the City’s Engineering Servicing Standards for uniform material and height:

• When adjacent to parks, pedestrian trails, and other open spaces, a uniform black chain-link fence is required and is to be no higher than 1.5m (5 ft).
  • The purpose of the uniform black chain-link standard is to maintain an aesthetically pleasing open concept while enhancing community identity, safety, and the pedestrian experience.
    
    
• When adjacent to major roadways (expressways, arterials and collectors) a uniform wood fence with site specific neighbourhood colour is required.
  • The purpose of uniform wood fencing along major roadways is to provide an aesthetically pleasing design and help reduce vehicular noise.
    
    
• Maintaining the uniform fencing standard is the responsibility of the property owner, as the fence is built entirely on their property. Land Use Bylaw and the Engineering Servicing Standards establishes the regulation regarding uniform fencing. The Community Standards Bylaw stipulates the requirement to maintain this standard. If maintenance is neglected the City may take enforcement action to rectify the matter.

When constructing a fence between neighbours, it is recommended you speak with your neighbours about your plans to build a fence. Together, you can determine the best place to build the fence. 

Before digging, contact Utility Safety Partners (formerly Alberta One Call) to locate underground utilities and services. You may need a Special Use Permit if you plan on using equipment on City property to build your fence. 

Not sure what you need? We're here to help! Call us at 780-992-6198 or visit us during business hours at City Hall, Lower Level at 10005 102 Street, Fort Saskatchewan.