Must comply with Schedule 1 of the General Regulation.

A fence or freestanding wall doesn’t need BA if it:

  • doesn't form an important part of a swimming pool enclosure
  • isn't more than 1.8m above ground
  • isn't more than 2m above ground:
    • no masonry or concrete components (other than cement sheet products) are more than 1.8m above ground.
  • isn't part of a roofed building or retaining wall and
  • isn't more than 3m above ground:
    • no masonry or concrete components (other than cement sheet products) are more than 1.8m above ground.

Fence ownership and costs

Private property owners are responsible for all costs for building and maintaining fences. The ACT Government doesn't contribute to these costs.

Owners must pay the required costs to build and maintain all front fences and fences to open space. Property owners who share side or rear fences must each pay for half the cost and maintenance of a basic urban fence.

The basic urban fence is 1.5m high and made of hardwood palings. Other fence types can be built if allowed and neighbours agree on the design and cost beforehand.

Find help with general fence requirements and resolving disputes in the Common Boundaries Act 1981.

Also see:

  • BA exemption details for:
    • open space boundary fences
    • pool fencing and barriers.
  • fence and freestanding wall DA exemptions.