Fences

There are two types of fencing regulated by municipal by-laws. Swimming Pool Fences & Boundary Fences.

Swimming Pool Fences

The Municipality of West Elgin requires that prior to constructing a swimming pool a swimming pool fence permit be issued by the Chief Building Official. Swimming pool Fence permits are applied for using the Cloudpermit online application system. West Elgin has developed the Pool Enclosure Permit Application Submission Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do I need a swimming pool fence permit?

A: A swimming pool fence permit is required under By-law 98-47 (as amended) the Swimming Pool Fence By-law.

Q: When is a swimming pool fence required?

A: A swimming pool fence is required when the swimming pool:

has a depth more than 75 centimeters (29.5 inches) at any point
has a surface area of more than 1 square metre (10.8 square feet)
is not under the jurisdiction of the Building Code
is not completely inside a building
is not owned by government or a local board or commission constituted under any statue or by-law
is not a pond or reservoir to be utilized for farming purposes, but excludes hydro massage pools
is not a storm water management pond

Q: What is the maximum and minimum height requirements for a swimming pool fence?

A: Minimum 153 cm or inches (4 ft) from the ground & Maximum of 1.8 metres (6 feet)

Q: Does my fence require a gate?

A: a gate is not mandatory, however the swimming pool must be completely enclosed with a fence. Any gate associated with a swimming pool fence or other form of access to the enclosed swimming pool must be self-closing and self-latching.

Boundary Fences

This refers to fences separating properties in the Built-Up Area of the Municipality but does not apply to fences around swimming pools. Boundary fences are regulated in By-Law 2015-56. The Line Fences Act does not apply to the Built-Up Areas of the Municipality

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How tall can a fence be?

A: in a residential zone no fence shall exceed 1.8 metres (6 feet) in height. There are different specifications in other zones.

Q: Do I need a permit?

A: if you are putting up a boundary fence you do not require a building permit

Q: Are there rules about what my fence is constructed of?

A: in the Built-Up areas no fence can be electrified or constructed of barbed wire

Q: How do I find my lot line?

A: Getting a land survey done is how you locate your lot line. The Municipality does not keep copies of land surveys on file.