Planning to build or replace a fence in Victoria? Whether you’re in Werribee, Melton, Caroline Springs, or Hoppers Crossing, it’s important to understand the state-wide rules under the Victorian Building Regulations, as well as specific requirements from your local council.
In this guide, we break down when you need a permit, what’s allowed without one, and how ANF Western Fencing can help you stay compliant.
🧾 Victorian Building Regulations: When a Fence Needs a Permit
Under Part 5 of the Victorian Building Regulations 2018, a building permit is required if your proposed fence meets any of the following:
✅ The fence is:
More than 2 metres high, or
More than 1.5 metres high and within 3 metres of a street boundary (front fences)
✅ The fence is:
Part of a swimming pool or spa barrier
Attached to or supported by another building
Constructed using non-standard materials (e.g. barbed wire, electric fencing)
✅ You’re on a corner block, and the fence affects visibility for traffic (known as a “splay” area)
✅ The fence includes a retaining wall or is built over easements or drainage lines
✅ When You Don’t Need a Permit in Victoria
Most side and rear boundary fences that meet these conditions do not require a building permit:
Under 2 metres high
Made from standard materials (e.g. timber, Colorbond)
Not attached to other structures or built over easements
Not for a pool barrier
These types of fences are common in suburbs like Tarneit, Bacchus Marsh, and Deer Park.
👥 What About Neighbour Agreements?
If your fence sits on the boundary with a neighbour, the Fences Act 1968 (VIC) applies.
You’ll need to:
Provide a Fencing Notice explaining your proposal
Agree on cost sharing (usually 50/50)
Give 30 days’ notice unless an emergency exists
ANF Western Fencing can help prepare the Fencing Notice and guide you through the process.
🏛️ Council-Specific Requirements
While the building permit rules are state-wide, your local council may impose additional regulations, especially for:
Heritage overlays
Design and Development Overlays (DDOs)
Corner lots or front fences
Below are examples relevant to the Western suburbs:
Always check with your council or ask ANF Western Fencing—we’ll help you confirm the requirements at your address.
🛠️ How ANF Western Fencing Supports You
We make the process easy by:
Checking permit requirements for your suburb
Helping prepare or review any paperwork
Guiding you through neighbour agreements
Ensuring fences meet state and council regulations
🏡 Let’s Build It Right, the First Time
Don’t get stuck with surprise delays or compliance issues. Whether you’re building a privacy fence in Truganina or a front Colorbond fence in Melton, ANF Western Fencing ensures your project is compliant, secure, and professionally built.
👉 Request your FREE quote and site check today – and let us take care of the red tape.
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Fill in the contact us form, and we will get back to you to discuss your requirements
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