Report a fence issue

Check if a fence breaks the rules and how to make a complaint. 

On this page:

1. Check if it’s a bylaw issue or a private matter
2. Make a fence complaint
3. What happens next
4. Contact us

Check if it’s a bylaw or private issue

We respond to fences that break the rules. Common issues includes:

• unsafe or dangerous fences
• fences built in a visibility triangle
• fences built on city property

Check our fence rules page to check if the fence meets regulations.

We don’t handle disputes about how a fence looks or exactly where it sits on the property line. For cost-sharing or property line concerns, read the Division Fence Bylaw for more information.

Make a fence complaint

You can submit a fence complaint online. You'll need to register, but you can track your request. Using the online portal sends your complaint directly to an officer for a faster response.

Include the address and describe the problem – photos are helpful.

You can also call 519-747-8785 or email municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca to make a complaint.

Make a fence complaint online

What happens next

Our municipal enforcement team:

• reviews your complaint
• contacts the property owner and may issue an order if the fence breaks the bylaw
• lets you know if it’s a private dispute we can’t address