Residential Fences
While the Zoning Bylaw (No. 8770) does regulate the height of fences built on residential properties, it does not regulate the materials used, aesthetics, site line placement, or maintenance. A building permit is not required for residential fence installation. Concerns of fence maintenance falls under the Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement Bylaw (No. 8175) and can be reported through the online report form.
Bylaw Requirements
Fence heights are limited to 1.0 metre in front yards and 2.0 metres in side and rear yards. (See Figure A) The required front yard is the area from the front property line to the minimum front building line as established in each zoning district. (See Figure B)
The minimum required front yard depth for most residential districts is 6.0 metres except:
R1 = 9 metres required front yard for sites more than 34 m deep
R1B = 3 to 6 metres required front yard
On corner lots, fences and vegetation higher than 1.0 metre cannot be placed in a triangular zone (also known as the corner visibility triangle) measured 6.0 metres in each direction from the street corner of the property. (See Figure B)
Figure A
Figure B
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the height of a fence measured?
As illustrated in Figure A, the height of a fence is the distance from the ground level immediately adjacent to the fence to the highest point of the fence.
Can noise or an unattractive view be blocked?
When side or rear property lines abut a freeway, expressway, highway or railway right-of-way or an associated buffer strip, a 2.5 metre high wall or fence is permitted.
What type of fence is permitted?
The choice of design, construction and materials is up to the individual. Fences must be maintained in a safe and reasonable state of repair.
If a neighbour is building a fence between two properties, is the other party required to pay half?
Cooperation between neighbours often results in cost-shared projects. The City of Saskatoon has no jurisdiction in disputes arising over fence construction, cost or maintenance as these matters fall within provincial jurisdiction and can be resolved through civil litigation.
Who do I need to notify?
To avoid serious injury or disruption of utility services, you should contact utility agencies via Sask 1st Call at least 48 hours prior to digging, so that all utility lines can be properly located. There is no fee for this service.
What about fences around swimming pools?
Contact the Building Standards Department at 306-975-2645 prior to construction.
Is the front property line located adjacent to the sidewalk?
In most cases, the front property line is not located adjacent to the sidewalk. Often a city boulevard exists between the sidewalk and the property line. The width of this boulevard may vary from one street to the next and can be verified by contacting the Construction and Design Department at 306-975-2454.
How are property lines determined?
A Surveyor's Certificate or a Real Property Report prepared by a Saskatchewan Land Surveyor can be used to accurately locate property site lines. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure the accurate location of fencing relative to their property site lines.
Reporting a Violation
If a fence height appears to be too tall or is in disrepair, please fill out the online report form.