Thinking about a new fence or a taller privacy screen this year? This GTA‑focused guide explains Toronto’s fence height limits, when permits apply, how pool enclosures differ from regular fences, and neighbour cost‑sharing basics under Ontario’s Line Fences Act. Plus, we share build details and materials that stand up to winter.
The quick rules most homeowners ask about
- Front yards: plan for about 1.2 m (4 ft) near the front lot line in most residential situations, especially within visibility areas by the sidewalk or street. Taller front elements usually need more setback from the lot line or special conditions.
- Side and rear yards: up to about 2.0 m (6 ft) is typical for privacy fencing, with some site‑specific exceptions.
- On unroofed decks or patios attached to the house: privacy screens can go up to 2.0 m above the walking surface under Toronto’s fence bylaw.
- Pool enclosures: there are stricter rules for height, gates, latches, and climbability. Gates must be self‑closing and self‑latching, with latch placement and clearances defined in Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 447.
Every street and lot is a bit different. We confirm your exact limits against Chapter 447 and any local conditions like corner visibility triangles before we build.
When do you need a permit or City approval?
Most standard backyard fences do not need a building permit, but you still must follow the Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 447. You will need additional permissions if:
- Your fence forms a pool enclosure, or you are adding a hot tub with a gate and lock requirements.
- You need to place posts or staging within the public right-of-way, which can trigger street work permissions.
- You are on a corner lot or near a driveway where visibility rules apply.
- Your property is under other site‑specific bylaws or heritage conditions.
Neighbour rules and cost sharing
Boundary fences often involve two owners. In Ontario, the Line Fences Act sets out a procedure to resolve disputes and outlines how municipalities appoint fence‑viewers if neighbours cannot agree. It is often used as a framework for sharing costs for new or replacement boundary fences. Start with a written notice and try to agree on height, material, and cost split before work starts.
Privacy screens on decks vs yard fences
A privacy screen attached to an unroofed deck can be up to 2.0 m above the deck surface under the City’s rules. Free‑standing yard fences typically follow the 1.2 m front and 2.0 m side or rear yard expectations. Always confirm your specific lot lines and whether the screen is considered part of a deck.
Materials that survive Toronto winters
- Posts: pressure‑treated 6×6 set in concrete or on helical piles for tricky soils.
- Framing: treated or metal framing with hidden fasteners for clean lines.
- Boards: cedar for a warm look that is repairable or composite for low maintenance.
- Hardware: hot‑dipped galvanized or stainless fasteners to fight corrosion.
- Design: leave small gaps for airflow to reduce wind load and heave.
Smart design details we include
- Straight lines and setbacks verified by measurements or survey.
- Frost‑proof posts set below the frost line and sloped tops to shed water.
- Good neighbour style with finished faces on both sides, where possible.
- Step‑downs near front setbacks or driveways to meet height rules.
- Gate hardware that self‑closes when required for pools and that locks securely.
Typical budgets in Toronto
Pricing depends on length, height, material, access, and whether you share costs. As a planning range, wood privacy fences are usually priced per linear foot with add‑ons for gates, lattice, or composite upgrades. We are happy to price a base option and an upgraded one so you can compare the look and lifespan.
FAQs
Can I go higher than 2.0 m in the back?
Sometimes. Site conditions, adjacency to lanes, or special uses can change limits and may allow up to 2.5 m in certain situations, but this is site‑specific and must be confirmed against the bylaw.
Do privacy screens count toward deck height or side yard fence limits?
Deck‑mounted privacy screens are governed by the 2.0 m above deck surface rule for unroofed decks. Yard fences follow yard height limits.
Who pays for a boundary fence?
Neighbours often share costs, but it depends on agreements and the Line Fences Act process if there is a dispute.
Related reading on our site
- Deck Railings & Privacy Screens Guide 2025
- Windows That Work in Toronto 2025
- Exterior Siding & Facade Upgrade Guide 2025
- Insulation & Air Sealing Retrofit Guide 2025
Ready to design a fence or screen that looks great and passes Toronto rules?
We can measure, confirm your limits, and build a durable fence or deck privacy screen with clean finishing. Contact us today to book a consultation.
📞 Call us at: 437-259-9632
✉️ Email us at: jgcontractingyyz@gmail.com
🌐 Website: https://jgcontractingyyz.com
