Local Fence
Regulations.
Canning Vale and Perth's southern suburbs sit across two local government areas — the City of Canning and the City of Gosnells. Each has its own fencing rules for height, materials and approvals. Here's what you need to know before you build.
City of Canning
Canning Vale, Wilson, Beckenham, Langford, Kenwick
Height Requirements
- Sufficient dividing fence height: 1.8m to 2.2m (measured from the higher ground level on either side of the boundary).
- Building approval required for any brick or masonry fence exceeding 0.75m in height.
- No building approval needed for dividing fences using cement-fibre sheets, Colorbond or timber, erected to manufacturer specifications.
Approvals & Permits
- Brick, limestone, concrete panel or other masonry fences over 0.75m require building approval.
- Standard Colorbond, timber and fibre-cement dividing fences generally do not require approval when built to spec.
- Planning approval may apply depending on your zoning and the fence location.
Construction Standards
- All gates in fences must open into the property — not out onto streets, footpaths or verges.
- Dividing fences are not to be used as retaining walls unless specifically engineered to do so.
- Property owners are responsible for maintaining fences so they don't become dangerous or unsightly.
Restricted Materials
- Barbed wire, electrified wire and other dangerous fencing materials are not permitted in residential areas.
- Some exemptions apply in rural, commercial or industrial zones.
- Non-compliant fences may be required to be repaired or removed by order of the City.
City of Gosnells
Thornlie, Gosnells, Maddington, Huntingdale, Southern River
Dividing Fence Heights
- Dividing fences (Colorbond, fibre-cement, timber) up to 2.0m in height do not require a building permit.
- Masonry fences (brick, limestone, concrete panels) require a permit if they exceed 0.75m.
- Dividing fences must not extend forward of the front of the dwelling — front fences have separate rules.
Front & Secondary Street Fences
- Masonry front fence: building permit required above 0.75m.
- Non-masonry front fence (pickets, tubular steel, Colorbond): permit required above 1.2m.
- Within 8m of a street corner: permit required above 0.75m for any material.
- Solid fencing maximum 1.2m; visually permeable (see-through) fencing allowed up to 1.8m.
- Fencing abutting a driveway must include a 1.5m clear truncation or be visually permeable above 0.75m.
Secondary Street Fencing (Corner Lots)
- Masonry secondary street fence: permit required above 0.75m.
- Non-masonry secondary street fence: permit required above 1.8m.
- Within 8m of a street corner: permit required above 0.75m for any material.
Restricted Materials
- Razor wire, electrified wire and fibrous cement sheeting are not permitted on residential front fences.
- Older asbestos 'Super Six' sheeting can no longer be used and requires safe removal if present.
- Estate design guidelines may further restrict colour, type and height — check your land title.
Permit Triggers at a Glance.
| Fence Type | City of Canning | City of Gosnells |
|---|---|---|
| Colorbond / Timber Dividing Fence | No approval (1.8m–2.2m standard) | No approval up to 2.0m |
| Masonry / Brick Fence | Approval required over 0.75m | Approval required over 0.75m |
| Front Fence (non-masonry) | Subject to local planning policy | Approval required over 1.2m |
| Within 8m of Street Corner | Subject to sightline rules | Approval required over 0.75m |
| Barbed / Electrified Wire | Not permitted in residential | Not permitted in residential |
Summary only — always confirm current requirements with the relevant council before construction.
Regulation FAQs.
Do I need council approval for a standard Colorbond dividing fence?
In both the City of Canning and City of Gosnells, a standard Colorbond dividing fence (up to 2.0m in Gosnells, or 1.8m–2.2m in Canning) generally does not require building approval when erected to the manufacturer's specifications. Masonry fences over 0.75m always require approval.
Who is responsible for the cost of a dividing fence?
The placement and cost of a dividing fence is a civil matter between adjoining land owners under the Dividing Fences Act 1961 (WA). We always recommend discussing the fence with your neighbour before work commences.
What if my estate has its own fence rules?
Many newer estates in Canning Vale, Harrisdale, Piara Waters and Southern River have design guidelines that restrict fence colour, type and height. These are separate from council rules and are usually registered on your land title or set out in the estate's design guidelines.
Can Canning Vale Fences handle the approvals for me?
Yes. We're familiar with both City of Canning and City of Gosnells requirements and can advise on what approvals apply to your job, help with the paperwork, and ensure your fence is fully compliant before we install.