Guelph Fence & Deck Builder

No building permit is required for a standard residential fence under the City of Guelph Zoning By-law — unless a swimming pool or hot tub is on the property, in which case a pool/hot tub permit and compliant enclosure are required. The City regulates fence height by location on the lot, not material or style. Contact Guelph Building Services at 519-837-5615 to confirm requirements for your property.

The City of Guelph regulates maximum fence height by where the fence sits on your lot — front, side, and rear yards each have different limits under Section 4.20 of the Zoning By-law. Because the allowed height changes by yard location and lot type, confirm your lot’s specific limits with Guelph Building Services (519-837-5615) before building.

Under the City’s Outdoor Swimming Pool and Hot Tub By-law (2019-20408), any fence enclosing a pool or hot tub must be at least 1.5 metres (4′11″) high, built so it cannot be climbed, have a maximum 100 mm gap below the fence, and include at least one self-closing, self-latching gate. A permit is required before installing the pool, hot tub, or enclosure.

Yes, if any part of the deck’s walking surface will be 24 inches (0.6 metres) or higher above finished grade, or if you’re making structural changes to an existing deck at that height or replacing its guards. Decks lower than that generally don’t need a building permit, but zoning setback rules still apply regardless of height.