Do I need a permit to replace my fence in Ottawa?

Yes, you typically need a permit to replace a fence in Ottawa, but it depends on the height and location of your fence.

The City of Ottawa requires building permits for most fence installations and replacements. Here's what you need to know:

When You Need a Permit:

• Fences over 1.2 meters (4 feet) high in your front yard


• Fences over 2 meters (6.5 feet) high in your side or back yard


• Any fence along a public street or walkway


• Fences on corner lots (special setback rules apply)


• Pool fences (which have specific safety requirements under the Ontario Building Code)

When You Might Not Need a Permit:

• Replacing an existing fence at the same height and location (if it was legally built)


• Fences under 1.2 meters in front yards or under 2 meters in back/side yards


• Temporary construction hoarding

The Ottawa Process:
Call City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to confirm your specific situation. You can also submit a permit application through the ottawa.ca/building portal. A simple fence permit typically costs $100-$300 and takes 10-15 business days to process.

What to Watch For:
Before replacing your fence, verify the property lines with a recent survey - many neighbor disputes start with fence placement. Also check if you're in a heritage district, as additional approvals may be required. Some neighborhoods have specific fence restrictions in their zoning bylaws.

Important Considerations:
Even if you don't need a City permit, you must respect property lines and may need to notify neighbors. In Ottawa, you're generally responsible for the "good side" of the fence facing your neighbor's property. If you're hiring a contractor, ensure they pull any required permits - don't let them convince you to skip this step.

Official Resources:
Contact City of Ottawa Building Permits at 613-580-2424 or visit ottawa.ca/building for the most current requirements and fee schedule. Each situation is unique, especially in Ottawa's diverse neighborhoods from Kanata to Orleans, so it's worth the quick call to confirm your specific requirements.