Waterloo fence by-law: when you need one and what to submit
The short answer
Most fences need no permit if they follow Fence By-law 2013-017.
Last verified 2026-10-06 · City of Waterloo: Build or change a fence (By-law 2013-017)- City fee
- No permit fee for an ordinary project
- Where to apply
- City of Waterloo building permit portal
- Review time
- The City targets 10 business days for a complete house application.
Front yard 0.9 m; side and rear yards 2.44 m; flankage yard on a corner lot 1.83 m; no fence inside the 3 m × 15 m daylight corner. A masonry fence over 0.6 m needs a building permit.
What Waterloo wants to see
- Usually nothing: an ordinary fence that follows the by-law needs no permit
- For a variance: a site plan, the fence height and design, and notice to neighbours
- For a masonry fence or a pool enclosure: the City’s own permit
Local quirks
- Fence posts must be at least 4 × 4 in and sunk 0.6 m, and the good side faces your neighbour unless they agree otherwise.
Get your Waterloo fence application ready to submit.
Pick your project, add your address and see your design and permit answer. Free, no card.