Temporary fencing is a common sight around construction sites, demolition projects and major renovations throughout Ontario. But is temporary fencing actually required by law, or is it simply a good safety precaution?
The answer depends on the type of project, its location and the potential hazards involved.
Ontario has specific construction safety regulations addressing fencing near public areas, and municipalities may have additional requirements.
Whether you’re managing a commercial construction project, completing a residential renovation or preparing for demolition work, understanding when temporary fencing is necessary can help you plan your project safely and avoid unnecessary complications.
Here’s what contractors, property owners and project managers should know about temporary fencing requirements in Ontario.
What Does Ontario Law Say About Temporary Construction Fencing?
Temporary construction fencing in Ontario is addressed under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, specifically Ontario Regulation 213/91 – Construction Projects.
Section 65 of this regulation establishes an important requirement for construction projects that may pose a danger to people using public areas.
Under Section 65, when construction work may endanger someone using a public way, a sturdy fence at least 1.8 metres (approximately 6 feet) high must be constructed between the project and the public way.
A public way can include sidewalks, streets, public driveways and other areas accessible to the public.
Importantly, this regulation does not automatically require every construction site to be fenced around its entire perimeter. The requirement depends on whether construction activities create a risk to people using an adjacent public area.
For contractors and property owners, understanding these requirements is an important part of planning a safe and compliant construction site.
Official Government Resources:
- Ontario Regulation 213/91 – Construction Projects, Section 65
- Ontario Ministry of Labour – Construction Site Compliance Guidance
When Might Temporary Fencing Be Necessary?
There are several common situations where temporary construction fencing may be required or strongly advisable.
Construction Near Sidewalks and Public Streets
Projects located beside sidewalks, roads or other public areas may create hazards for pedestrians and motorists.
Temporary fencing helps establish a clear boundary between construction activities and the public, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or accidental entry into active work areas.
For construction projects in busy urban areas such as Toronto, Hamilton and Mississauga, protecting pedestrian access can be an important consideration.
Excavation and Groundwork
Open excavations, trenches and other ground-level hazards can create serious risks.
Depending on the circumstances, fencing, barriers or other protective measures may be required to prevent people from entering dangerous areas.
Temporary fencing can help establish a defined perimeter around excavation activities, although additional protective measures may be necessary depending on the hazards involved.
Demolition Projects
Demolition work can involve falling materials, debris, heavy machinery and unstable structures.
Properly planned site boundaries help separate demolition activities from surrounding properties and public spaces.
Temporary fencing is frequently used to establish restricted areas during demolition and site preparation.
Heavy Equipment and Material Storage
Construction equipment, vehicles and stored materials can create hazards, particularly when a site is accessible to pedestrians.
Temporary fencing helps define restricted work areas and manage access.
It can also help organize equipment storage areas and material staging locations.
Residential Renovations and Additions
Not every home renovation requires temporary fencing.
However, larger projects involving excavation, structural work, demolition or equipment storage may benefit from a temporary barrier.
For example, a homeowner completing a major addition may want to separate the construction area from neighbouring properties, sidewalks or areas used by children and pets.
Municipal requirements and the specific risks involved should always be reviewed before work begins.
Does Temporary Fencing Have to Be 6 Feet High in Ontario?
Under Section 65 of Ontario Regulation 213/91, a sturdy fence must be at least 1.8 metres high when the section’s public-way protection requirement applies.
Six-foot-high temporary fence panels are commonly used for construction projects.
At Site Secure, we offer standard temporary fence panels measuring 6 feet high by 10 feet wide, available in black or silver.
This standard size makes it easier to calculate fencing quantities and plan site layouts.
However, panel height is only one consideration. The complete fence installation must be appropriate for the location, properly supported and capable of providing the protection required.
A standard temporary fence panel is not automatically sufficient for every construction hazard or regulatory requirement.
Do You Need to Fence the Entire Construction Site?
Not necessarily.
Ontario’s Ministry of Labour guidance explains that Section 65 does not automatically require fencing around an entire project’s perimeter.
The relevant consideration is protecting people using a public way from hazards created by construction activities.
For example, a project may require fencing along a sidewalk-facing boundary without necessarily requiring the same fencing along every other property line.
However, other safety requirements, municipal bylaws or site-security considerations may make additional fencing necessary.
Even when fencing is not specifically required around an entire property, many contractors choose to establish a more complete perimeter to help manage access and protect equipment and materials.
Can Municipalities Have Their Own Construction Fencing Rules?
Yes.
Ontario municipalities may establish additional construction and demolition fencing requirements through local bylaws, building-permit conditions and other regulations.
Requirements can differ depending on the municipality, project type and surrounding environment.
For example, a commercial construction project in Toronto may have different site conditions and municipal requirements than a residential renovation in Hamilton, Burlington or Oakville.
Before starting a project, check with the local building department or relevant municipal authority.
If the project involves occupying a sidewalk, roadway or other public right-of-way, additional permissions and protective measures may also be necessary.
Why Temporary Fencing Is Important Even When It Isn’t Legally Required
Even when fencing isn’t specifically mandated, it can still provide practical benefits.
Managing Site Access
Temporary fencing establishes clear boundaries and helps discourage unauthorized entry into active work areas.
Protecting Pedestrians
Separating construction activities from pedestrian routes can reduce exposure to site hazards.
Organizing Work Areas
Defined boundaries help contractors manage equipment, deliveries, material storage and vehicle movement.
Protecting Property
Temporary fencing can help separate an active work area from neighbouring properties, parking areas and landscaping.
Supporting a Professional Jobsite
A clearly defined construction site can help demonstrate that access, safety and organization have been considered during project planning.
For projects lasting several weeks or months, temporary fencing can also provide a consistent boundary as work progresses.
How Much Temporary Fencing Will Your Construction Site Need?
Once you’ve determined where fencing is required, the next step is calculating how many panels you’ll need.
At Site Secure, our temporary fence panels measure 6 feet high by 10 feet wide.
That means each panel provides approximately 10 linear feet of fencing.
For example:
| Total fencing distance | Estimated panels required |
|---|---|
| 50 feet | 5 panels |
| 100 feet | 10 panels |
| 150 feet | 15 panels |
| 200 feet | 20 panels |
| 300 feet | 30 panels |
These are basic estimates. Gates, corners, site conditions and installation requirements may affect the final quantity.
For a more detailed explanation, read our guide: How Much Temporary Fencing Do I Need?
Choosing the Right Temporary Fencing for Your Project
Before renting temporary fencing, consider several factors:
- How many linear feet of fencing are required?
- Will the fencing be installed beside a public area?
- Are gates or equipment access points needed?
- How long will the fencing remain in place?
- Are there site conditions requiring additional support?
- Does the municipality have specific fencing requirements?
Site Secure keeps the rental process straightforward by offering one standard panel size in two colour options: black and silver.
Customers can choose from pickup, delivery, installation and teardown options depending on their project requirements.
Whether you need fencing for a short-term renovation or an extended construction project, our goal is to make the process as simple and cost-effective as possible.
Temporary Construction Fence Rentals Across Southern Ontario
Site Secure provides temporary fencing for construction sites, renovations, demolition projects, events and other short-term applications throughout Southern Ontario.
We serve Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Vaughan, Markham, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Niagara Region and surrounding communities.
With standard 6 ft × 10 ft panels, flexible rental options and competitive pricing, we make temporary fencing straightforward.
Whether you’re planning a new construction project or need fencing for an existing worksite, we can help you determine the appropriate rental quantity and service options.
Request a Temporary Fencing Quote
Important: This article provides general information and is not legal or engineering advice. Contractors and property owners should verify current provincial regulations, municipal bylaws and site-specific safety requirements before selecting or installing temporary fencing.
