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Got a problem with a neighbour’s fence? Don’t go to town hall.
The Line Fences Act will no longer apply in most situations in Carleton Place after council’s committee approved a by-law opting the municipality out of the provincial legislation.
Town staff say the law was originally designed to settle rural disputes involving livestock and shared boundary fences, but it is rarely used locally and often misunderstood in urban settings.
Under the Act, municipalities appoint “fence-viewers” who can decide how boundary fences should be built or repaired and how costs are shared between neighbours.However, the Town says the process does not address boundary line disagreements and cannot be used if a property owner has already built or repaired a fence and is seeking reimbursement.
Town Clerk Stacey Blair said with the Town’s growth it was time to get out of trying to resolve fencing issues.
Beginning March 24, 2026, property owners in Carleton Place will generally be responsible for the full cost of their fences unless a separate agreement is made with neighbours.
Any fencing must still comply with municipal property standards related to materials, height and setbacks.
Town officials say disputes between neighbours should be resolved privately or through the courts rather than through municipal mediation.
Blair notes that the existing Act doesn’t always bring the results desired.
One section of the provincial legislation — dealing with responsibilities on former railway lands — will remain in effect despite the Town opting out of the rest of the Act.
Story by Brian Turner