Fencing and Fence Disputes
The Township’s Zoning By-Law regulates fence height, location, and specific restrictions for certain zones. While a building permit is not required for fences built entirely on your property, different rules apply to corner lots, waterfront properties, and pool enclosures.
When a fence is located on a shared property boundary, the Line Fences Act provides a formal arbitration process if neighbours cannot agree on its construction, repair, or maintenance. This process is overseen by municipally appointed Fence Viewers. All notices under the Act are sent out by the Clerk’s Office.
Fence Viewer fees: $100 per Fence Viewer (3 minimum) plus a $200 administrative fee per visit.
Informal Resolution of Disputes
Property owners are encouraged to reach an agreement directly with their neighbours before proceeding with a shared fence. This can save time and costs.
Purpose of the Act
The Line Fences Act sets out how to resolve disputes between neighbouring landowners about boundary fences, including:
How construction and maintenance costs are shared.
The type and materials of the fence.
When is the Act Applicable?
When a fence is (or will be) on the boundary line between two properties.
When owners cannot agree on cost-sharing or fence specifications.
When is the Act Not Applicable?
Fences entirely within one owner’s property boundary.
Disputes about fences not on the property line.
Requesting Fence Viewers
Three Fence Viewers attend the property, inspect the location, and hear submissions from both owners. They issue an award outlining responsibilities and costs.
Fence Viewer Request Application Form
Property Surveys
The Township does not maintain surveys for most properties. You may check your property file (roll # required) or contact the Prescott Land Registry Office at 613-925-4219 or onland.ca.
Contact a Fence Viewer
Duaine McKinley – 613-926-2372
Daniel Barnett – 403-669-1377 or danielbarnett813@gmail.com
Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program / Livestock Evaluators
The Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program (OWDCP) provides financial assistance to agricultural producers whose livestock, poultry, or honey bees are injured or killed by wildlife.
Municipally appointed Livestock Evaluators investigate claims, document findings, and submit completed applications to both the owner and municipality.
Livestock Evaluator fee: $100 per visit (By-Law 3709-2024)
Purpose of the Program
To provide compensation for eligible livestock losses caused by wildlife, as set out by the OWDCP.
Process
An evaluator must be notified within 72 hours of the injury or death.
Evaluators visit the site, take 3–6 colour photos, and collect all required information.
A completed application is submitted within seven business days of the investigation.
Contact a Livestock Evaluator
Duaine McKinley – 613-926-2372
Daniel Barnett – 403-669-1377 or danielbarnett813@gmail.com