City Of Calgary Fence Bylaws
City of Calgary Fence Bylaws
Section 1: Purpose
The purpose of these bylaws is to regulate the construction, height, materials, and design specifications of fences on residential properties within the City of Calgary. These regulations aim to ensure the safety, aesthetics, and harmonious integration of fences within residential neighborhoods, while also respecting individual property rights.
Section 2: Definitions
2.1 "Residential Property": Any property within the City of Calgary designated for residential use.
2.2 "Fence": A structure erected to enclose, separate, or define the boundaries of a residential property.
2.3 "Front Yard": The area of a residential property located between the front property line and the front of the principal dwelling.
2.4 "Side Yard": The area of a residential property located between the side property line and the exterior wall of the principal dwelling.
Section 3: Permissible Height
3.1 Fences in the front yard shall not exceed a maximum height of four feet (1.2 meters) above the finished grade.
3.2 Fences in the side and rear yards may have a maximum height of six feet (1.8 meters) above the finished grade.
3.3 Any portion of a fence exceeding the maximum allowable height may require a variance permit obtained through the City of Calgary's planning department.
Section 4: Materials
4.1 Fences shall be constructed using durable and weather-resistant materials such as wood, vinyl, chain-link, wrought iron, or composite materials.
4.2 Materials used for fences shall be of a quality and finish that complements the architectural style of the principal dwelling and surrounding neighborhood.
4.3 Barbed wire, electric fencing, and other hazardous materials are strictly prohibited for use in residential fences.
Section 5: Design Specifications
5.1 Fences shall be constructed in a manner that maintains structural integrity and prevents hazards to neighboring properties or public spaces.
5.2 All fence posts shall be securely anchored into the ground or attached to a suitable foundation to withstand normal wind and weather conditions.
5.3 Gates shall be designed to facilitate access to the property and shall be constructed to match the style and materials of the adjacent fence.
5.4 Fences shall not obstruct visibility at intersections or impede the flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on sidewalks or roadways.
5.5 Decorative elements such as lattice, trellises, or ornamental details may be incorporated into fence design, provided they comply with height and material regulations outlined in this bylaw.
Section 6: Enforcement
6.1 The City of Calgary's bylaw enforcement officers shall be responsible for monitoring compliance with these regulations.
6.2 Violations of these bylaws may result in fines, removal of non-compliant structures, or other enforcement actions as deemed necessary by the City.
6.3 Property owners found in violation of these bylaws may be subject to penalties outlined in the City of Calgary's Municipal Government Act.
Section 7: Severability
7.1 If any provision of these bylaws is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
7.2 In such cases, the invalid or unenforceable provision shall be replaced with a valid and enforceable provision that most closely achieves the original intent of the bylaws.
Section 8: Effective Date
8.1 These bylaws shall come into effect on [date of adoption] and shall apply to all residential properties within the City of Calgary from that date forward.
Section 9: Revisions
9.1 These bylaws may be amended or revised as necessary by the City of Calgary's municipal government to address changing needs, developments, or regulations related to residential fencing.
Section 10: Public Accessibility
10.1 Copies of these bylaws shall be made available to the public through the City of Calgary's official website, municipal offices, and other designated locations for reference and compliance.
Contact Information
For inquiries, clarification, or complaints regarding these bylaws, individuals may contact the City of Calgary's bylaw department at [contact information].
Approved and Adopted by:
[Representative in City of Calgary]
[Date of Adoption]
