Relevant rules in the Regulation:

  • Schedule 1, Part 1.4, Division 1.4.2, Section 1.49.

Open space boundary fences are usually built between leased and unleased land, for example:

  • at the rear of land bordering a nature reserve
  • between parklands and residential blocks
  • between pedestrian laneways and residential blocks, or
  • at the side boundaries of the corner block.

Open space boundary fences don't need DA approval if:

  • a development requirement for the block specifies a basic paling fence for the boundary
  • it’s no more than 1.85m above datum ground level
  • no part changes the flow of surface water to cause ponding or flow onto other land
  • it complies with relevant general exemption criteria, and
  • it’s a basic paling fence or a metal fence.

For a metal fence, it must:

  • be unperforated metal
  • be finished in a pre-coloured proprietary finish
  • be used according to the manufacturer's instructions
  • cap all sharp edges of metal sheets
  • for any one side of the fence:
    • all panels must be the same material, flatness and corrugation (if any), and
    • all visible components (other than fasteners, footings and cut ends of components) must be the same external colour as the panels.
  • be a solid colour that is, or closely matches, a colour from AS 2700 (Colour Standards for General Purposes), and
  • be the same form, finish and colour for the full length of the open space boundary for the block, for that side of the fence.

Note: The ACT Government doesn't contribute to the cost of building or maintaining fences. All costs are the responsibility of the private property owner.

Also see: