Apply for a fence variance

If your fence design doesn’t follow the fence bylaw, you can apply to the Fence Variance Committee for an exception. 

Follow these steps to apply

1. Check if you need a variance

Read our fence rules to find out if your design meets the bylaw. You can apply for a variance if it doesn’t. For example, you may want to:

• build a fence higher than the bylaw allows
• place a fence inside a visibility triangle
• use a fence material that isn’t normally allowed
• build closer to a property line than the bylaw allows

If you’re not sure, contact us before applying.

2. Get your documents ready

You will need:

• a property survey
• a site plan showing buildings, driveways and existing fences
• details about the size, height, and materials of the proposed fence

3. Apply online

Apply for a fence variance using the online form.

4. Pay the application fee

• fee: $665 – HST not applicable
• pay in person at the Development Planning counter, 2nd floor, City Hall
• pay by cash, debit, cheque or money order payable to the City of Waterloo
• we don't accept credit cards

5. Wait for the committee meeting

We schedule meetings as needed, based on the number of applications.

6. Get the decision

We will send you the committee’s decision by email.

Contact us

Call Danielle Ingram at 519-747-8773 if you have questions about fence variances.