Do I need a permit?

Do I need a permit?

Fence Regulations in Victoria: Side Fences, Front Fences and When You Need a Permit

Before you build a new fence, know the rules

A new fence can transform the look, privacy and security of your property, but not every fence can be built without approval.

Fence requirements can vary depending on:

• Your council

• The location of the fence

• The height

• The materials used

• Whether your property is on a corner

• Planning overlays or restrictions on your land

At Crawfords Fencing, we help homeowners throughout Melbourne’s eastern suburbs understand their fencing options and recommend checking requirements before construction begins.

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Side and Rear Boundary Fences

For most standard suburban properties, side and rear boundary fences are usually the simplest type of fence.

Common considerations include:

• The standard maximum height is often around 2 metres

• Both neighbours generally need to agree before replacing a shared dividing fence

• Special planning overlays or property restrictions may apply

Some councils, including Knox, state that side and rear boundary fences up to 2 metres generally do not require a building permit, while higher fences may require approval. (Knox City Council⁠)

However, every property is different, so it is important to check your local council requirements.

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Front Fences

Front fences often have stricter requirements because they affect:

• Street appearance

• Neighbourhood character

• Driver visibility

• Pedestrian safety

Depending on your council and property, you may need approval for:

• Higher front fences

• Certain materials

• Corner properties

• Properties with planning overlays

For example, Knox Council notes that front fence requirements can vary depending on block size, location and height, with some front fences requiring permits. (Knox City Council⁠)

Whitehorse Council also highlights that front fences may require planning or building approval depending on height, location and property overlays. (Whitehorse City Council⁠)

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Corner Blocks — Extra Rules Apply

Corner properties often have additional requirements because fences can affect visibility for drivers and pedestrians.

You may have restrictions near:

• Intersections

• Driveways

• Roadways

• Sight lines

Yarra Ranges Council, for example, outlines additional requirements for corner properties, including lower height limits near intersections. (Yarra Ranges Council⁠)

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When Do I Need a Permit?

You may need a permit if:

• Your fence exceeds the allowed height

• You are building a front fence above council limits

• Your property has planning overlays

• You are on a corner block with visibility requirements

• Your fence uses certain materials or construction methods

• The fence is affected by easements or title restrictions

Always check before construction begins.

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Replacing an Existing Fence

Many homeowners assume they can simply replace an old fence with a new one exactly the same.

Sometimes this is straightforward, but issues can arise if:

• The new fence is higher

• The fence location changes

• The property has restrictions

• The old fence was not compliant

A quick check before installation can prevent expensive changes later.

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Crawfords Fencing Advice

Before choosing your fence, consider:

 What height suits your property

 Whether council approval is required

 What style suits your home

 Wind exposure and soil conditions

 Long-term maintenance requirements

A good fence is not just about appearance — it needs to suit your property, your neighbours and local requirements.

Crawfords Fencing services Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and can help guide you through choosing the right fencing solution for your home.

 

• “Knox Council Fence Regulations”

• “Maroondah Council Fence Regulations”

• “Yarra Ranges Fence Regulations”

• “Whitehorse Fence Regulations”

• “Manningham Fence Regulations”

• “Monash Fence Regulations”

• “Banyule Fence Regulations”

 

“Do I need a permit for a fence Knox?”

 

 

The photo below is here to help customers with corner blocks understand the 9m set back rule