Property fencing

Property fencing up to two metres (2.0 metres) high above the original ground level generally doesn’t need building approval.

There are some exceptions to this listed below:

• corner lots
• swimming pool fencing
• waterfront fencing
• Title and contract restrictions
• development approval conditions.

The City has also developed a guide to residential fences.

Corner lots

Corner lot fencing needs to allow the traffic on both roads to have a clear line of vision around the corner.

Fencing within the corner cannot exceed one metre (1.0 metre) in height.

View the fencing requirements for a corner lot as defined by Department of Housing and Public Works Design and siting standards MP1.2

Swimming pool fencing

Swimming pool fencing generally needs approval and inspection.

This is due to the dangers associated with swimming pool fencing and the need to keep our children safe.

Waterfront fencing

Our waterways also carry floodwater so fencing within these areas carries special requirements under our City Plan.
The City’s standard drawing 04-004 restricts waterfront fencing to 1.2 metres high.

The height applies within the waterway regulation line which is shown on the City plan interactive mapping / supporting layers / administrative and other supporting information.

Before any building or design work commences, the setback needs to be confirmed by a property search.

Dividing fences / fencing disputes

The State Government regulates and resolves neighbour disputes for fencing.

Conditions and restrictions

Title and contract restrictions

The property title may list title and contract restrictions as encumbrances, covenants and easements. These may include special restrictions on building in certain areas including fencing. Covenant approvals are to protect the amenity of a housing estate. They may restrict certain types of fencing and be detailed in your purchase contract.

Development approval conditions

Earlier development approvals may have conditions about fencing. These are still relevant, even after subdivision. For example, when a large development was first approved it was a condition that front fencing was 50 per cent open for security. This condition is still relevant even to later owners. Fencing of a particular nature or type in your area may indicate this.

Before building your fence

• Talk to your neighbour
• check your property boundaries
• check for services at dial before you dig
• consider if the old fence may be asbestos before removing
• the Planning Enquiries Centre can assist with setback enquiries 07 5582 8708 or email: mail@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
• the Building Certification Group can help with building queries on 07 5667 5987 or email: buildingcertificationgroup@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
   

Related information

• Referral Agency Assessment applications
• Swimming pool fencing