One of the most common questions we get at FPM Building Supplies is: "How high can my Colorbond fence be?" It's a fair question — the rules in Victoria are not always straightforward, and getting it wrong can mean having to modify or remove a fence you've just paid to install.

This guide covers the key rules for fence heights in Victoria, including what's exempt from permits and where you need to check with your council.

The Short Answer

For most residential properties in Victoria:

• Side and rear boundary fences: Up to 2 metres high are generally exempt from a building permit
• Front boundary fences (facing a street): Up to 1.2 metres are generally exempt; higher fences require a permit and may need to meet visibility requirements

These are the general rules under the Victorian Building Regulations. However, local councils can have additional requirements through their planning schemes, so it's always worth checking with your council before you build.

Side and Rear Fences

A standard 1.8m Colorbond fence is the most popular choice for side and rear boundaries in Melbourne — and for good reason. At 1.8m, it:

• Provides excellent privacy
• Is well within the 2m permit-exempt height
• Is available in a wide range of Colorbond colours
• Works with standard post and rail systems

If you want to go higher — say, 2.1m or 2.4m for extra privacy or noise reduction — you'll need to check whether a building permit is required. Under the Victorian Building Regulations, fences over 2m on a side or rear boundary generally require a permit.

Note: Height is measured from the natural ground level on the higher side of the fence, not from the finished ground level. On a sloped block, this can make a difference.

Front Boundary Fences

Front fences are subject to stricter rules because they affect streetscape character and can create visibility hazards for drivers and pedestrians.

Under the Victorian Building Regulations, a front fence is generally exempt from a building permit if it is:

• No more than 1.2m high for a solid fence (like Colorbond)
• No more than 1.5m high for an open-style fence (like pool fencing or picket fencing with gaps)

Many Melbourne councils have additional planning requirements for front fences, particularly in heritage overlays or neighbourhood character areas. Always check with your local council before building a front fence.

Visibility Triangles

For fences near driveways and intersections, there are visibility requirements to ensure drivers can see pedestrians and other vehicles. A solid Colorbond fence near a driveway crossing may need to be set back or reduced in height near the crossing point.

Heritage and Neighbourhood Character Overlays

Many Melbourne suburbs have heritage overlays or neighbourhood character overlays that impose additional requirements on fencing. In these areas:

• You may need a planning permit (not just a building permit) for any new fence
• The fence style, colour, and height may be restricted
• Colorbond fencing may not be permitted in some heritage areas where timber paling fences are the character standard

Check your property's planning overlay on the DELWP Planning Maps Online tool before ordering materials.

Pool Fencing

Pool fencing has its own set of requirements under the Victorian Building Regulations and Australian Standard AS 1926. Key requirements include:

• Minimum height of 1.2m (measured from the outside)
• No climbable elements within 900mm of the top of the fence
• Self-closing, self-latching gates

Colorbond fencing can be used as pool fencing if it meets these requirements. Standard Colorbond panels are smooth and non-climbable, making them a popular choice.

Dividing Fences and the Fences Act

The Victorian Fences Act 1968 governs disputes between neighbours about dividing fences. Key points:

• Both neighbours are generally required to contribute equally to the cost of a standard dividing fence
• If one neighbour wants a fence that exceeds the standard (e.g., a taller or more expensive fence), they may need to pay the difference
• There is a formal process for resolving disputes, including a Notice to Fence

If you're replacing a shared boundary fence, it's worth having a conversation with your neighbour before ordering materials.

Standard Colorbond Fence Heights Available

FPM Building Supplies stocks Colorbond fencing components in the following standard heights:

• 1.8m — the most popular residential height; suits most side and rear boundaries
• 2.1m — for extra privacy; check permit requirements with your council
• 2.4m — for commercial applications or high-security situations; permit required

All heights are available in the full range of Colorbond colours, including Monument, Night Sky, Woodland Grey, Basalt, Paperbark, and more.

What Colorbond Colours Are Available?

Colorbond steel is available in a wide range of colours to suit any property style. Popular choices for Melbourne homes include:

• Monument — deep charcoal, suits modern homes
• Night Sky — near-black, bold and contemporary
• Woodland Grey — medium grey, versatile and popular
• Basalt — dark grey with a slightly warm tone
• Paperbark — warm off-white, suits heritage and cottage styles

FPM stocks posts, rails, fence sheets, and caps in all standard Colorbond colours.

Getting It Right From the Start

The best approach is to:

1. Check your council's planning scheme for any overlay requirements
2. Confirm the permit-exempt height for your fence type and location
3. Talk to your neighbour if it's a shared boundary fence
4. Order the right materials — FPM can help you calculate quantities

Visit us at 32 Fullarton Dr, Epping VIC 3076, or call +61 431 235 919 to discuss your fencing project. Our team can help you select the right height, colour, and components for your property.