Front fences in Melbourne are subject to different rules than boundary fences. Height limits, visibility requirements, and heritage overlays can all affect what you are allowed to build. Here is what you need to know before replacing or building a new front fence.
Standard height limits for front fences
In most residential zones across Melbourne, front fences can be built up to 1.5 metres without a planning permit, provided the fence is at least 25% transparent above 1.2 metres. This transparency requirement exists to maintain neighbourhood character and ensure visibility for vehicles and pedestrians.
Solid front fences above 1.2 metres generally require a planning permit. If your property is on a main road (Transport Zone), different height allowances may apply, sometimes allowing up to 2 metres.
Heritage overlays and special zones
If your property sits within a heritage overlay, the rules for front fences are more restrictive. You may need a planning permit for any front fence, regardless of height, and the design may need to be sympathetic to the heritage character of the streetscape.
We have built front fences in heritage areas across Melbourne, including Hampton-style fences with rendered piers and detailed timber infill that satisfy both council requirements and the homeowner's vision. The key is understanding what council expects before you start.
Corner blocks and sightline requirements
Corner blocks have additional considerations around sightlines. Fences near intersections must maintain adequate visibility for traffic safety. This can limit fence height within a certain distance of the corner, typically requiring the fence to be no higher than 900mm within a sight triangle.
These requirements are enforced by council and are non-negotiable. We factor sightline requirements into every corner block fence design automatically.
Planning a new front fence? We can check the permit requirements during a free site visit.
Book a Site VisitHow we approach front fence projects
We start every front fence project with a site visit where we measure up, check the planning overlays, and discuss your design preferences. If a planning permit is needed, we advise you upfront and can help coordinate the application.
Our front fences are built to the same standard as all our work. high-durability treated posts, 800mm deep holes, 20kg cement per post, screwed rails, and palings with 25mm overlap. We back our fencing with a 10-year warranty because we know the construction is right.