What are the fence bylaws in Ottawa?

Ottawa has specific fence bylaws that vary by property location and fence height, with most residential fences under 2 meters (6.5 feet) not requiring permits but still needing to follow setback and height restrictions.

Ottawa Fence Bylaw Requirements

The City of Ottawa regulates fences through Zoning By-law 2008-250, and the rules depend on where your property is located and what type of fence you're installing.

Height Restrictions:

• Front yards: Maximum 1.2 meters (4 feet) high


• Side and rear yards: Maximum 2 meters (6.5 feet) high


• Corner lots have special rules where both street-facing sides are considered "front yards"


• Privacy fences over 2 meters require a building permit

Setback Requirements:
Fences must be set back from property lines according to your specific zoning. In most residential areas, fences can be built right to the property line, but you need to verify your exact property boundaries first. Never assume where your property line is - get a survey if you're unsure.

When You Need a Building Permit:

• Any fence over 2 meters (6.5 feet) high


• Retaining walls over 1 meter high


• Fences with electrical components (automatic gates)


• Swimming pool enclosures (which have additional safety requirements)

Building permits for fences typically cost $150-300 and take 10-15 business days to process through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424).

What to Watch For

Property Line Issues: The most common fence disputes happen because property lines weren't properly established. Get a survey done before installing any fence near boundaries. Your neighbor's fence may not be on the actual property line.

Utility Easements: Check for underground utilities before digging. Call Ontario One Call (1-800-400-2255) at least 5 business days before starting work. The City of Ottawa may have easements on your property that restrict fence placement.

Pool Fencing: If you're installing a fence around a swimming pool, it must meet specific safety requirements under the Ontario Building Code, including self-closing/self-latching gates and minimum heights.

Contractor Requirements

While many homeowners install their own fences, if you're hiring a contractor in Ottawa:

• Verify they have WSIB clearance (wsib.ca/clearances)


• Get a detailed written quote including permit costs if required


• Ensure they'll handle the property survey and utility locates


• Confirm they understand Ottawa's specific zoning requirements for your area

For fences requiring building permits, your contractor should handle the permit application through ottawa.ca/building or by visiting City Hall at 110 Laurier Avenue West.

Official Resources:

• City of Ottawa Zoning: ottawa.ca/zoning


• Building Permits: ottawa.ca/building or 613-580-2424


• Property information: geoottawa.ca for property boundaries and zoning


• Fence permit applications: ottawa.ca/building

The key is checking your specific property's zoning designation, as rules can vary between neighborhoods like Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, and central Ottawa areas.