Corner blocks in NSW are subject to stricter fencing rules due to their position at two intersecting streets. These rules are designed to maintain visibility at intersections and reduce safety risks for pedestrians and drivers. If fences are built too high or lack visibility, councils may issue penalties or require costly changes.

NSW regulations limit front-facing fences to 1.2 metres. For side and rear fences not facing a street, the height can reach 1.8 metres when using timber or Colorbond. However, if the fence is within 9 metres of the corner boundary, it must not exceed 1 metre, regardless of material.

Fences that face any street must also include at least 20% transparency above 400 mm, using designs like spaced pickets, slats, or open panels. Solid piers must remain under 350 mm wide. Local council guidelines, bushfire zoning, and property overlays may impose extra conditions, so it’s important to check planning documents before building.

Why Fence Height is Stricter on Corner Lots

Corner block fencing affects sight lines at street intersections. To reduce collision risk, NSW planning codes limit the height of any structure close to the corner boundary. This applies regardless of whether the fence faces the front or side road.

Under the NSW Government Planning Portal, any fencing built within 9 metres of a corner must not exceed 1 metre. Councils may also require partial visibility, such as slatted or spaced panels, to maintain a clear view across driveways and footpaths.

These rules support safer navigation for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists. A solid 1.8 metre fence on a corner would obscure approaching vehicles or crossing foot traffic. This is why even side fences near the corner must meet reduced height and transparency standards.

Each council may interpret these guidelines slightly differently through their Development Control Plans (DCPs), but the core rule—preserving visibility at corners—is consistent across NSW.

Why Fence Height is Stricter on Corner Lots

Height Limits for Front, Side and Rear Fences

Fence heights vary based on placement and material:

  • Front fences (facing a primary road): max 1.2 m for all materials
  • Side or rear fences (not facing the road):
    • 1.8 m max for timber or Colorbond
    • 1.2 m max for masonry

For corner blocks, extra limits apply:

  • Within 9 metres of a corner: 1 m height max
  • First 50% of a side boundary near the road: follows front fence limits (1.2 m or 1 m if within 9 m)
  • Rear 50% of side boundary:
    • Up to 1.8 m if non-masonry
    • 1.2 m if masonry

Refer to your local council’s rules for clarification:

  • City of Newcastle Fence Development
  • Lake Macquarie Council Guidelines

Transparency and Safety Requirements

Visibility is a major safety factor. NSW councils enforce transparency rules to support safe crossing and turning. For any fence facing a street:

  • Must be at least 20% open above 400 mm
  • Use designs like spaced pickets, open slats, or mesh
  • Solid piers must not exceed 350 mm in width

These rules apply even if the total height is compliant. For example, a 1.2 metre fence with no gaps is not acceptable if it blocks visibility across a driveway or side street.

In some areas, especially near schools or high-traffic zones, council inspectors may enforce stricter interpretations. Before building, confirm the acceptable fence design with your council’s DCP or call their planning team.

Heritage Zones and Bushfire Areas

If your corner block is in a heritage conservation area, there may be added restrictions on design, height, and material. Heritage DCPs often require fencing to match surrounding character, limiting modern materials or oversized features.

For properties in bushfire-prone zones, fencing must meet NSW RFS guidelines:

  • Use non-combustible materials like steel or treated masonry
  • Avoid timber near property boundaries
  • Ensure gates and latches are accessible for emergency services

Bushfire compliance is mandatory, even for standard-height fences. Review your property’s zoning using the NSW Planning Portal’s map tool or consult your fencing contractor before finalising material selection.

When Council Approval is Required

Approval is needed if you plan to build outside the default limits. A Development Application (DA) is required when:

  • Fence height exceeds 1.2 m (front) or 1.8 m (side)
  • Fence design blocks visibility within 9 m of a corner
  • You use non-compliant materials or build in a heritage/bushfire zone

Approval is not automatic. The council will assess whether the proposed design maintains public safety, visual amenity, and planning compliance.

You must include drawings, boundary measurements, and a written justification. In many cases, councils will impose conditions or suggest modifications.

Practical Checks Before Building

Before any fencing work begins, complete the following checks to avoid compliance issues and construction delays:

  • Confirm boundaries with a surveyor if there’s any uncertainty
  • Discuss shared fences with neighbours and follow the Dividing Fences Act for cost-sharing rules
  • Check underground services by using Dial Before You Dig to prevent damage to utilities
  • Choose durable materials suited to local conditions, especially in bushfire-prone or high-exposure areas
  • Allow for access along the fence line for future maintenance and vegetation control

These steps help ensure your project meets legal and practical requirements. Skipping them may lead to boundary disputes, construction delays, or added costs.

Contact Chainwire Fencing Specialist

For expert support on fencing corner blocks in NSW, contact Chainwire Fencing Specialist. We provide site assessments, clear advice, and installation of compliant fencing for homes, businesses, and high-visibility locations across the region.

FAQs

What height can I build a fence on a corner block in NSW?

You can build up to 1.2 m along the street, but only 1 m within 9 m of the intersection.

Do I need council approval for a front fence?

Not if it meets standard height and transparency rules. Otherwise, a Development Application is required.

Can I build a 1.8 m fence on a side street?

Only on the rear 50% of the boundary and if it is not within 9 m of the corner.

Are picket fences allowed on corner blocks?

Yes, especially if they are at least 20% open above 400 mm.

What’s the rule for posts and piers?

They must not exceed 350 mm in width when built near road-facing boundaries.

Do bushfire zones affect fencing?

Yes, you must use non-combustible materials and follow NSW RFS fencing recommendations.

Further Information

For further information and confirmation of fence height rules for corner blocks in NSW, you may refer to the following resources:

  • NSW Government Planning Portal – Fences
  • City of Newcastle – Fence Development & Approval
  • Lake Macquarie City – Swimming Pools, Spas and Fencing
  • NSW Legislation – State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021
  • NSW Rural Fire Service – Planning for Bush Fire Protection

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post was correct at the time of publishing. Regulations and council requirements may change over time. For the most up-to-date advice and to ensure compliance with local laws, always consult your local council or a qualified fencing professional before starting any fencing project.