What are the fence height restrictions in Moncton New Brunswick?

In Moncton, New Brunswick, residential fence height is generally restricted to 6 feet (1.83 metres) in rear and side yards and 4 feet (1.22 metres) in front yards, as outlined in the City of Moncton's zoning bylaw. These limits apply to the total height of the fence from the finished grade on the higher side, and they cover all types of fencing including wood, vinyl, chain link, and decorative metal. Understanding and following these regulations before building can save you from costly removal orders and neighbour disputes.

Rear yard fences are the most common type installed in Moncton and can be up to 6 feet tall from the ground to the top of the fence, including any lattice, decorative caps, or post finials. If your property is on a slope, the fence height is measured from the higher side of the grade — which means the fence may appear taller from your neighbour's lower side. This is a frequent source of disputes in Moncton's hillier neighbourhoods, so it is worth discussing the planned height with your neighbours before installation and taking grade measurements.

Front yard fences have the lower 4-foot limit to maintain sight lines for vehicle and pedestrian safety. The front yard is defined as the area between your home's front wall and the street property line. Corner lot properties face additional restrictions — the sight triangle at the intersection (typically a triangular area extending 6-9 metres from the corner along each street) must remain clear of obstructions above a certain height to ensure driver visibility. Fences in sight triangles may be restricted to 3 feet or less, and solid fences may not be permitted at all in these areas.

A building permit is typically not required for a standard residential fence in Moncton that meets height regulations and setback requirements, but you must still comply with the zoning bylaw. However, you should confirm your property boundaries with a survey before building — fences built even partially on a neighbour's property can be ordered removed. A legal survey costs $800-1,500 in NB but prevents potentially expensive disputes. At minimum, locate your property pins (metal stakes at each corner, often buried a few inches below grade) and measure from there.

Additional Moncton regulations include requirements that the finished side of the fence faces outward, restrictions on barbed wire and electric fencing in residential zones, and setback requirements from sidewalks and municipal rights-of-way. Pool fences must be at least 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates per both municipal bylaws and the NB Building Code.

Fredericton has similar regulations — typically 6 feet in rear yards and 4 feet in front yards, though specific setbacks differ. Saint John, Dieppe, and Riverview each have their own bylaws. Always check with your municipality's planning department before beginning a fence project to confirm requirements and any special conditions like heritage district overlays or subdivision covenants.

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