Fences shared with Council
Eligible property owners can ask Brimbank City Council to contribute to the cost of replacing or constructing a dividing fence where it adjoins eligible Council-owned land.
Council is not required to contribute under the Fences Act 1968.
However, we have adopted shared cost fencing guidelines (PDF 3.8 MB) that allow contributions in some cases.
Before works start, you need to provide:
- 2 independent quotes from registered fencing contractors. Each quote must include:
- Property location
- Fence height
- Fence material
- Type of work (repair, replacement or new fence)
- Contractor name
- Registered ABN
- GST shown separately
- Total price
- Photos from inside the property
- Photos from the reserve side (where safe)
- Preferred contractor (optional)
It's your responsibility to:
- Check your property title for any covenants, restrictions or caveats about fencing.
- Clear the fence line of obstructions, including concrete paths.
- Get permission from our Parks and Gardens Department before entering Council reserves. A separate application needs to be made to our Parks and Gardens Department, with a minimum of 3 business days’ notice, before works commence.
- Use our request private vehicle access into Council reserve form.
Paper forms are available at customer service centres but may take longer to process. - Get any other required approvals, such as a building permit or Council approval to build a High Corner Fence.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it not half-cost fencing?
Why is it not half-cost fencing?
Council doesn't automatically pay half the cost. The contribution is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is not guaranteed to be exactly 50%.
Can I apply for shared cost fencing at my property?
Can I apply for shared cost fencing at my property?
This service may apply if your property adjoins:
- Council-owned property (kindergarten, community centre)
- Council park or reserve
- Council tree reserve
- An eligible walkway or road that forms part of a Council reserve
It does not apply if your property adjoins:
- Road reserves
- Rights of Way
- Standard pedestrian walkways
- Front boundary footpaths/corner blocks
Government-owned land such as Melbourne Water, VicTrack, Parks Victoria or Department of Transport land (unless specifically identified within the Guidelines)
What if I’m still not sure if I qualify?
What if I’m still not sure if I qualify?
If you're not sure if you meet the guidelines, apply and we will assess your application and respond in writing.
Can I start work before approval?
Can I start work before approval?
No. Wait until we have assessed your request and responded to you.
What fence types are generally supported?
What fence types are generally supported?
Timber paling or Colorbond fencing consistent with surrounding properties.
What fence heights are usually considered?
What fence heights are usually considered?
Approximately 1.63 metres or 1.83 metres.
How is payment made?
How is payment made?
The contractor submits an invoice after the works are completed. Council pays the contractor via direct deposit once all documentation has been received.
Does Council reimburse fencing already completed?
Does Council reimburse fencing already completed?
If fencing works have already been completed before Council approval, you may still apply. Each request will be assessed on its individual circumstances, and reimbursement is not guaranteed.
Does Council pay for gates?
Does Council pay for gates?
No. Gates and associated costs are the owner's responsibility.
Fences shared with neighbours
All neighbours are responsible for the fence, including, payment, ongoing maintenance and/or repair.
Initially talk to your neighbour about the dividing fence between your properties. If you both agree that work needs to be done, then the fencing works can go ahead as agreed, provided this meets both our and Fencing laws within Victoria.
If you cannot agree, seek assistance from the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria as fencing between neighbours is a civil issue.
Ownership information
You can request information from us relating to ownership information or to consent the release of ownership information to:
- an authorised third party for fencing
- and/or building purposes.
Apply to obtain ownership information
Property information
If you are wanting to obtain property information relating to:
- Building: Building property information
- Roads or Drainage: Roads or drainage property information
- Planning: Planning advice
Fencing Permits
Fencing Guidelines
A Building Permit maybe required to construct a fence or alter an existing fence.
Please read our Fencing Guidelines fact sheet or contact our Building Team to discuss your fencing requirements.
Swimming Pool Fences
For regulations regarding swimming pool barriers and fences please check out our Swimming pool and spa page
