Fence Bylaws in Ottawa (2026)

Everything you need to know before installing a fence in Ottawa: height limits, permits, setbacks, and pool fencing rules.

Under Ottawa's Fence By-law No. 2003-462, the maximum fence height for residential properties is 1 metre (approximately 3.3 feet or 39 inches) in the front yard and 2.13 metres (7 feet) in the rear and side yards. For non-residential properties, the maximum height is 3 metres. The Director of By-law Services may permit a fence up to 3 metres on residential property if it is deemed necessary for public safety. Properties abutting an urban arterial highway may have specific rules where the fence height is measured from the crown of the highway. These rules apply city-wide across all Ottawa neighbourhoods including Kanata, Barrhaven, Orléans, Nepean, and Stittsville.

Ottawa's Pool Enclosure By-law No. 2013-39 is among the strictest in Canada. Every privately-owned outdoor pool capable of retaining water 600mm (24 inches) or deeper must be enclosed by a fence at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) high. This includes swimming pools, hot tubs, ponds, and even inflatable pools. All gates must be self-closing, self-latching, and lockable, with the latch located at least 1.35 metres above the bottom of the enclosure on the inside. Gates must be locked at all times except when the pool is in use. Fines for non-compliance can reach $10,000. A permit is required for all pool enclosures, even if you already have a fence.

Ottawa permits most standard fencing materials including wood (cedar, pressure-treated), aluminum, PVC/vinyl, ornamental iron, and chain link. However, there are important restrictions: chain link fencing on residential property must be vinyl-coated or powder-coated — uncoated chain link is prohibited in residential zones. Barbed wire, chicken wire, and any sharp or electrified materials are banned. All fences must be maintained in good repair under the city's "good neighbour policy." When choosing materials, consider Ottawa's extreme temperature swings — aluminum and vinyl withstand freeze-thaw cycles better than untreated wood.

For a standard residential fence that meets the height requirements, no permit is needed. However, a permit is always required for pool enclosures, regardless of whether a fence already exists on the property. If you wish to build a fence taller than the permitted height, you may apply for an exception through the Director of By-law Services. Before starting any fence installation in Ottawa, call Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255 to have underground utilities located — it's free and required by law.

Stay informed about regulation changes.