Are you planning to construct a fence in Amherstburg? Great news! Here are some helpful guidelines and answers on the Town of Amherstburg regulations to ensure that your fence project is safe and compliant with local bylaws.
Updated Feb 2023 - This is a general guide, since changes are constantly happening consult the building department to verify the specifics of your project.
The maximum height allowed for a fence in the front yard of a residential lot is
The maximum height allowed for a fence in the side or rear yard of a residential lot is 2 meters (6 feet 6 inches).
The maximum height allowed for a gate in the Town of Amherstburg is 2 meters (6 feet 6 inches), unless there is a decorative gate feature that projects no more than an additional 0.6 meters (2 feet).
Hazardous fences on obviously not allow, but what does that mean specifically. Well on a residential lot no "barbwire, other sharp or barbed materials, or a fence to be, used as a conductor of an electrical current" is allowed. So while you might want to, the town says you're not allowed to keep the neighbour kids out of the pool with razor wire. Instead we recommend installing a quality fence, reach out if you'd like us to complete the project for you.
The maximum height allowed for a privacy screen is the same as the maximum height allowed for a fence in the relevant area, as set out in questions 1 and 2.
No, a person cannot erect or maintain a fence that is not of uniform color on a residential lot in the Town of Amherstburg.
For the most part yes, however the town restricts any offensive signs. To quote the bylaw specifically "means a sign that is affixed to a fence that conveys non-offensive or typical messaging such as but not limited to
According to the bylaw you're responsible for keeping the fence in a state of "good repair". This would mean any wood fences that have fallen over due to rotten posts or boards missing are a violation of the bylaw. When it comes to damaged chainlink we'd love to see this enforced on a broader level, since it will tend to drag neighbourhoods down. Did we mention that we offer chainlink repair *hint*
No, a person cannot erect or maintain a fence on public property without authorization from the Town of Amherstburg. And if you don't listen and you're caught... well it's a $500-$10,000 fine per section 6.2 of the bylaw
No, a person cannot erect or maintain a fence within a visibility triangle on any lot in the Town of Amherstburg.
A person needs to obtain a pool enclosure permit from the Chief Building Official before constructing or erecting a swimming pool, in-ground or above in the Town of Amherstburg, except for portable inflatable pools or portable plastic pools as deemed by an Officer.