Fences rules in South Australia (2026)
In South Australia a fence up to 2.1 m high is exempt from development approval, measured from the lower of the two adjoining finished ground levels. Masonry is the big exception - any part formed from masonry, including piers and columns, is only exempt to 1 m.
Exempt from development approval up to 2.1 m
In South Australia a fence up to 2.1 m high is exempt from development approval, measured from the lower of the two adjoining finished ground levels. Masonry is the big exception - any part formed from masonry, including piers and columns, is only exempt to 1 m.
Key rules at a glance
| Max height (front setback) | 2.1 m applies generally, but no more than 1 m within 6 m of the intersection of two road-facing boundaries |
| Max height (side/rear) | 2.1 m, measured from the lower of the two adjoining finished ground levels |
| Masonry limit | 1 m - any part formed from masonry, including piers or columns, above 1 m needs development approval |
| Approval needed? | No development approval within those limits; otherwise a development application to council or a private certifier |
| Pool fence | Min 1.2 m, compliant with AS 1926.1 - a pool safety fence is never covered by the exemption and always needs approval |
| Dividing fence law | Fences Act 1975 |
| Who pays? | Neighbours are normally each liable for half the cost of a dividing fence, on the basis that both get equal benefit |
Conditions & eligibility
- Heights are measured from the lower of the two adjoining finished ground levels, so retaining changes the answer
- Sightlines must be kept clear - no more than 1 m within 6 m of a road corner
- Heritage places and some hazard-affected areas require approval for all development, including small fences
- Serve a Notice of Intention under section 5 setting out the work, the cost and the amount you want from your neighbour
- Your neighbour has 30 days to serve a cross-notice objecting, otherwise they are taken to have agreed and are bound by the amount
- Unresolved disputes are decided by the Magistrates Court on an Originating Application - Fences Act
Heritage, flood and bushfire controls on your specific lot can remove the fast-track and require a full application — even when the general rules say you're fine.
How approval works in South Australia
Schedule 4 of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure (General) Regulations 2017 lists fences as exempt development within those heights. Exceed 2.1 m, use masonry above 1 m, build a swimming pool safety fence, or sit in an area where all development needs approval (heritage places, some flood and bushfire areas), and you need development approval from your council or a private certifier.
The Planning and Design Code applies different fence policies by zone and overlay, so front-fence height, transparency and materials can be tighter than the 2.1 m exemption in character and heritage areas.
Fences rules by council in South Australia
Local councils apply the South Australia framework and can add their own controls. Pick your council:
Frequently asked questions
How high can a fence be in SA without council approval?
Up to 2.1 m, measured from the lower of the two adjoining finished ground levels. A masonry fence, including masonry piers, is only exempt to 1 m.
Does my neighbour have to pay half the fence in South Australia?
Generally yes. Under the Fences Act 1975 residential neighbours are each responsible for half the cost of a dividing fence, because both are assumed to get equal benefit from it.
What happens if I ignore a fencing notice from my neighbour in SA?
If you do not serve a written cross-notice within 30 days you are deemed to have agreed to the proposal, including the amount you must pay.
Sources
- Fences Act 1975 - South Australian Legislation ↗
- Sharing costs between neighbours - Law Handbook SA ↗
- Find out if you need approval - PlanSA ↗
- Swimming pool fences and safety - Law Handbook SA ↗
Related building rules
This is general guidance, not professional planning advice. Figures are summarised from the sources above and can change — confirm with your council or the PlanSA - development applications before starting work. Last reviewed: July 2026.
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