OneStation practical guide · 7 min read
Do I Need Council Approval for a Fence in NSW?
Many residential fences can be exempt development in NSW when they satisfy the applicable standards, but the rules vary with location, zoning, road setbacks, materials and site constraints.
Updated 19 September 2026 · Sydney, AustraliaThe answer homeowners actually need
Many residential fences can be exempt development in NSW when they satisfy the applicable standards, but the rules vary with location, zoning, road setbacks, materials and site constraints.
Common residential standards
NSW Planning guidance states, for example, that in specified residential zones side and rear boundary fences generally must not exceed 1.8 metres to qualify under the cited exempt standards, while fences in primary or secondary road setback areas have lower limits and additional requirements. Masonry and corner-lot situations have their own conditions.
Other rules still matter
The Dividing Fences Act may apply between neighbours. Bushfire-prone land, koala habitat, heritage and vegetation controls can introduce additional considerations. Gates, materials and public-land interfaces also have requirements.
Check the actual lot
Use the NSW Planning Portal to confirm zoning and current standards. A generic answer cannot determine whether a specific fence at a specific address is exempt.
Coordinate with landscaping
Fence height, retaining, finished ground levels and gates often interact. Confirm those relationships before either the fence or landscape levels are locked in.
Quick questions homeowners ask
Does exempt development mean there are no rules?
No. Exempt development only applies when every relevant eligibility requirement and development standard is satisfied.
Should I check council as well?
Check the current NSW Planning Portal and any property-specific or local constraints before construction.
Can the rules change?
Yes. Planning requirements can be updated, so verify the current rules when you are ready to proceed.
Explore the next step
Sources and further checking
Pricing and planning requirements can change. Check current information before making a final decision.