A fence is one of the quickest home projects to complete, and one of the most expensive to fix if it is built in the wrong place. A little homework helps.
Know where your property line is
Check your survey or property records. If the boundary isn't clear, a land surveyor can mark it. Building a fence even slightly over the line can lead to disputes and costly changes.
Talk to your neighbours
Even where it isn't required, a quick conversation about style, height and who pays for a shared fence goes a long way.
Check your municipal by-laws
Many municipalities set maximum heights and have different rules for front, side and rear yards, and some require a permit. Your local by-law office can confirm what applies.
Get utilities located
Before digging fence post holes, have underground utilities marked. In Ontario, this is done by contacting Ontario One Call, which is free and required before digging.
Plan for gates
Think about where you will need access for lawn equipment, garbage bins and service visits, and size the gates accordingly.
The takeaway: confirm the line, the rules and the utilities first. We handle the planning steps as part of the job.