When planning a commercial project in Australia—whether it’s a construction site, infrastructure upgrade, or public event—temporary fencing is essential for safety, site security, and regulatory compliance. However, before you install a single panel, it’s crucial to understand the local council approval requirements that apply to temporary fencing in your area.
Council approval for temporary fencing is not always automatic or straightforward. Every state and territory in Australia enforces different laws, and within each state, individual councils may impose stricter rules based on location, project type, and public impact. What’s permissible in a rural area may trigger a permit requirement in a metropolitan zone.
In most jurisdictions, a permit or formal approval is required if your temporary fencing:
- Remains in place for longer than 14–30 days (depending on local council regulations)
- Exceeds height restrictions, usually 2.0 metres or more
- Encroaches onto public land, such as footpaths, roads, verges, parks, or council reserves
- Impacts public safety, obstructs sightlines, or affects pedestrian or vehicle access
Failing to meet approval conditions can result in stop-work notices, project delays, legal penalties, or forced fence removal. This is particularly important for builders, developers, civil contractors, and event managers whose operations often span multiple sites and jurisdictions.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key triggers for approval, state-by-state council requirements, and what commercial operators need to know to stay compliant with temporary fencing laws in Australia.
Victoria
In Victoria, temporary fencing used for commercial purposes—such as construction zones, infrastructure projects, or public event spaces—often requires formal council approval, particularly when it exceeds certain durations or impacts public areas. Failing to secure the necessary permits can lead to costly fines or work stoppages, making compliance essential for project continuity.
When Is a Permit Required?
Most Victorian councils require a Temporary Fence Permit when:
- The fencing will remain in place for more than 14 consecutive days
- It is installed on or near public land, such as footpaths, roads, laneways, or nature strips
- The structure obstructs pedestrian or vehicle access, or reduces visibility at intersections and driveways
- It forms part of a larger development or construction project
Even when temporary fencing is placed entirely within the boundaries of commercial property, councils may still require approval if the installation is visible from public areas or presents potential safety concerns.
What Do Councils Require?
To apply for a temporary fencing permit in Victoria, most local councils require the following:
- Site plans clearly showing the location and layout of the temporary fencing
- Confirmation of compliance with Australian Standard AS4687.2:2022 (Temporary Fencing and Hoardings), which outlines structural integrity, wind resistance, and safety standards
- Permit application forms, which may differ by council
- Permit fees, generally ranging between $150 and $300, depending on the municipality and scope of works
Permit approval timelines typically range from 5 to 10 business days, though urgent applications may be expedited under certain conditions.
WorkSafe Victoria Requirements
For construction sites and commercial developments, WorkSafe Victoria has specific mandates that intersect with council requirements. Under WorkSafe guidelines, all temporary fencing used on building or demolition sites must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum fence height of 1.8 metres
- Demonstrated wind load resistance, compliant with AS1170.2 (Structural Design Actions – Wind Actions)
- Use of non-trip footings or bases, designed to prevent hazards to pedestrians and workers
- Secure bracing systems to maintain stability during adverse weather
In addition, commercial sites must integrate temporary fencing into their broader Construction Management Plan, with documented procedures for inspection, maintenance, and compliance tracking.
Additional Requirements in Metropolitan Areas
Major councils in Victoria—including City of Melbourne, Greater Geelong, and Ballarat—enforce additional safety and compliance measures, especially in high-traffic pedestrian areas. These may include:
- High-visibility mesh or screening to improve public awareness and reduce visual clutter
- Pedestrian detour signage and barrier protection zones
- Temporary access points that meet Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) standards
- Specific fencing design restrictions near heritage-listed buildings or retail precincts
Failure to comply with these extra conditions can result in delayed permits or forced reconfiguration of the fencing setup.
New South Wales
In New South Wales, temporary fencing for commercial use—such as building sites, public infrastructure works, and large-scale events—is regulated by both local councils and SafeWork NSW. While some short-term installations may only require council notification, many projects—especially in metropolitan areas—trigger the need for formal Hoarding Permits and additional safety compliance documentation.
Do You Need a Permit for Temporary Fencing in NSW?
In general:
- Temporary fencing installed for less than 30 days may be allowed with notification only, depending on the local council and whether the fence remains on private land without obstructing public space.
- If the fencing:
- Is in place for more than 30 days
- Encroaches on public land (e.g. footpaths, roadways, laneways)
- Restricts pedestrian or vehicle access
- Blocks sightlines near intersections
Then a formal Hoarding Permit is typically required.
Permit conditions are enforced under the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) and, in many areas, supplemented by council-specific Development Control Plans (DCPs). Always check with the relevant local authority before installation, as penalties for non-compliance can include fines, stop-work orders, or mandatory fence removal.
Councils With Stricter Approval Requirements
Several NSW councils—particularly in high-density areas—enforce stricter rules around commercial temporary fencing:
- City of Sydney: Requires a Hoarding Permit for most fencing that’s visible to the public, even for durations under 30 days.
- Newcastle City Council: Applies tighter restrictions around the CBD and waterfront precincts, often requiring site-specific pedestrian management plans.
- Wollongong City Council: Frequently mandates permits for construction fencing near schools, public buildings, or busy traffic zones, regardless of duration.
These councils may also impose site inspection requirements, higher permit fees, and conditions around working hours or noise management.
Key Permit Requirements and Compliance Standards
To obtain council approval for commercial temporary fencing in NSW, most applications must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Compliance with AS4687.2:2022 (Temporary Fencing and Hoardings)
- Wind load certification under AS1170.2 (Structural Design Actions – Wind Actions), especially in coastal or high-wind areas
- A minimum height of 1.8 metres for construction site fencing
- Trip-free bases, secure panel connections, and proper bracing
- Maintenance of safe pedestrian access, with clear footpaths and non-slip surfaces
- Visibility at intersections, driveways, and public crossings
For high-traffic or sensitive areas, councils may also require:
- Traffic and pedestrian management plans
- Public liability insurance, typically in the range of $10–20 million
- Noise, dust, or privacy screening depending on site context
Hoarding Permits and Associated Fees
A Hoarding Permit in NSW typically covers not just fencing but also any scaffolding, shade cloths, gantries, or overhead protection structures associated with the worksite. Fees can vary widely depending on:
- Duration of installation
- Location and pedestrian traffic volume
- Total square metres of affected public space
On average, expect to pay between $250 and $800, with higher rates in CBD zones.
Permit applications usually require submission of:
- Detailed site plans
- Risk assessments
- Evidence of compliance with Work Health and Safety legislation
- A copy of the contractor’s insurance certificate of currency
Queensland
In Queensland, commercial temporary fencing is subject to council-specific permit systems, particularly when installations are visible to the public, affect pedestrian access, or are located on or near public land. Whether your site is in Brisbane’s CBD or along the coastal corridor, understanding local permit obligations is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding disruptions.
Brisbane: Temporary Structures Permit Requirement
If you’re installing commercial temporary fencing in Brisbane, especially for construction or civil works that are visible from public areas, you’ll likely need a Temporary Structures Permit from Brisbane City Council.
This requirement applies when:
- Fencing is installed adjacent to or on public land
- The installation is visible to pedestrians or traffic
- The project involves long-term works, subdivision, or site remediation
Approval is required before installation begins, and failure to comply can result in on-the-spot fines or work orders to remove unauthorised structures.
Required Documentation for Permit Applications
When applying for a Temporary Structures Permit in Brisbane, the following must be submitted:
- Site layout plans that indicate the fencing footprint, access points, and any interaction with public land (e.g., footpaths or driveways)
- Engineering certification showing compliance with AS4687.2:2022 (Temporary Fencing and Hoardings) and AS1170.2 (Wind Load Actions)
- Proof of public liability insurance, typically with coverage between $10–20 million, especially if the fence borders pedestrian zones or roads
- A clear outline of the expected installation duration, including proposed dates for both setup and removal
In high-traffic areas or during major developments, additional documents such as traffic management plans or Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) may also be required.
Approval times usually range from 5 to 10 business days, so it’s critical to plan ahead during the pre-construction phase.
Coastal Councils: Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast Requirements
In coastal Queensland regions, including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, local councils implement stricter compliance standards for temporary fencing due to the increased risk of severe weather, particularly high wind exposure and cyclonic conditions.
Key differences in coastal permit requirements may include:
- Enhanced wind-load certification as per AS1170.2, with proof that fencing can withstand higher wind speeds (up to and above 165km/h in exposed zones)
- More rigorous inspection regimes, especially during storm seasons or in elevated terrain
- Requirements for additional bracing, ballast, or anchoring systems to prevent fence collapse or displacement
- Restricted installation timelines in flood-prone or erosion-risk areas
Councils may also request environmental impact assessments for works near dunes, waterways, or protected vegetation, particularly when fencing is installed for civil works or infrastructure development.
Permit fees across these councils vary based on:
- Duration of the installation
- Area of public land affected
- Proximity to residential or environmentally sensitive zones
Expect to pay between $180 and $450 for most commercial applications.
Western Australia
In Western Australia, commercial installations of temporary fencing—whether for construction, infrastructure, mining, or event purposes—are governed by local council requirements and WorkSafe WA regulations. For projects located in the Perth Metropolitan Area, a formal Temporary Works Permit is required for fencing installations that remain in place for more than 14 days or affect public access in any way.
Permit Requirements in the Perth Metropolitan Area
If your project is based within Perth Metro, you must obtain a Temporary Works Permit from the relevant local council (e.g., City of Perth, City of Stirling, City of Canning) if:
- The fencing is installed for longer than 14 days
- It impacts or encroaches on public land, including footpaths, verges, laneways, or road reserves
- It alters pedestrian or vehicle access, or affects visibility near intersections and driveways
The permit requirement applies to a wide range of commercial projects, including:
- Construction sites
- Demolition zones
- Road and utility infrastructure works
- Large-scale events or festivals
What Must Be Submitted?
When applying for a Temporary Works Permit in WA, councils typically request the following documentation:
- Detailed site plans that show the precise location of the temporary fencing, entry points, public interfaces, and any nearby infrastructure
- A traffic management plan, especially if the fencing will disrupt footpaths, roads, or shared public spaces
- Structural compliance documentation, confirming that the fencing system meets:
- AS4687.2:2022 – Temporary Fencing and Hoardings
- AS1170.2 – Structural Design Actions for Wind Loads
- An outline of the installation duration, including start and end dates
- Public liability insurance coverage (generally between $10 million and $20 million depending on risk level and council requirements)
Approval processing typically takes 5–10 business days, though complex projects near critical infrastructure may take longer.
Some councils also request noise, dust, or visual impact mitigation strategies, especially for projects near residential or commercial zones.
Regional WA: Additional Requirements in Mining and Cyclone-Prone Areas
For projects in Western Australia’s regional or remote areas, especially in mining towns or cyclone-prone zones such as the Pilbara or Kimberley, fencing requirements are even more stringent.
Key additional requirements include:
- Wind load certification demonstrating the system can withstand speeds of 165km/h or more, in accordance with AS1170.2
- Use of heavy-duty bracing systems, reinforced anchoring, and weighted bases suitable for extreme weather
- Regular inspection and maintenance documentation, particularly during wet season months or storm warnings
Mining operations and resource sector contractors are also expected to comply with site-specific HSE (Health, Safety and Environmental) policies, which may include:
- Emergency evacuation access plans
- Restricted zone fencing protocols
- Integration of fencing plans within broader project risk assessments
In some cases, mining companies may be subject to dual approval processes—one from the local council and another from a state regulator such as the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).
Northern Territory
In the Northern Territory, regulations surrounding commercial temporary fencing are generally more streamlined compared to other Australian jurisdictions. However, this does not mean compliance can be overlooked—particularly when fencing installations are exposed to public land, severe weather, or pedestrian traffic. Councils and NT WorkSafe both play a role in ensuring temporary structures are safe, secure, and suitable for the Territory’s extreme climatic conditions.
Is Council Approval Required?
In most cases, formal council approval is not required for temporary fencing installed on private commercial property and kept in place for short to medium durations. However, if your fencing meets any of the following criteria, notification and/or a permit may be required:
- The fencing is installed on or affects public land—such as roads, footpaths, verges, or parks
- It restricts public access or visibility in high-traffic areas
- The fencing is part of a broader development or infrastructure project that already requires council oversight
For public-facing commercial sites in Darwin, Palmerston, or other urban centres, it’s best practice to notify the relevant council—even if approval isn’t technically mandatory. This avoids delays during site inspections and demonstrates compliance with local risk management protocols.
Compliance with NT WorkSafe Guidelines
Regardless of council requirements, all commercial temporary fencing in the Northern Territory must adhere to NT WorkSafe regulations, which align closely with national safety standards such as:
- AS4687.2:2022 – Temporary Fencing and Hoardings
- AS1170.2 – Structural Design Actions: Wind Loads
Key compliance obligations include:
- Minimum height of 1.8 metres for construction and high-risk sites
- Use of trip-free bases, secure couplings, and adequate bracing systems
- Clear pedestrian pathways where fencing intersects with public walkways
- Integration of fencing into Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and Construction Risk Assessments
For long-term installations, NT WorkSafe may also request documented proof of wind resistance capabilities, particularly for coastal and cyclone-prone regions.
South Australia
In South Australia, the need for council approval for temporary fencing is determined by both local council planning laws and SafeWork SA regulations. Commercial fencing installations—particularly those near public areas—typically require a permit before works commence.
When Approval is Required
A Temporary Structure or Hoarding Permit is generally required if:
- The fencing will be in place for more than 14–30 days
- It is adjacent to or on public land, such as footpaths or verges
- It forms part of a construction site, infrastructure project, or event
Permit Documentation
Commercial applicants must submit:
- Site-specific fencing plans
- Engineering documentation showing compliance with AS4687.2:2022 and AS1170.2
- A risk assessment that includes pedestrian and traffic considerations
- Proof of public liability insurance (commonly $10–20 million)
Major councils such as City of Adelaide and City of Port Adelaide Enfield often impose additional safety and environmental conditions, especially in high-traffic or heritage zones.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, commercial temporary fencing is regulated at the local council level, with added oversight from WorkSafe Tasmania. While requirements are generally less complex than in metropolitan areas, formal approval is often still required when public land or access is affected.
Key Permit Triggers
You’ll likely need a permit if your temporary fencing:
- Is installed for longer than 14 days
- Blocks or alters public access (e.g. roads, pathways, parks)
- Forms part of a building or demolition project with public exposure
What Councils Require
Typical documentation includes:
- Site plans detailing fence placement and interaction with public areas
- Wind load certification and structural documentation under AS1170.2
- A basic risk assessment identifying pedestrian safety measures
- Public liability insurance for any fencing bordering public space
Councils such as Hobart City Council may also request construction management plans, particularly for inner-city or waterfront developments. Failing to obtain the correct permits can result in stop-work notices and fines under the Building Act 2016 (TAS).
Canberra (ACT)
In the ACT, all commercial temporary fencing is overseen by Access Canberra and subject to the Planning and Development Act 2007. Permits are required for any fencing that affects public land or poses a risk to public safety.
When a Permit is Needed
You’ll require a permit if:
- The fencing is on unleased Territory land, including nature strips, footpaths, or roads
- The installation exceeds 14 days
- The fence is associated with a construction or civil works site
Application Requirements
ACT authorities typically require:
- Site-specific permit applications through Access Canberra
- Evidence of engineering compliance with national standards
- A risk management plan outlining pedestrian safety measures
- Public liability insurance of at least $20 million for installations on public land
In Canberra’s central precincts, Transport Canberra and City Services (TCCS) may also need to approve any changes to footpath access or traffic flow. For construction projects, fencing details must be integrated into the broader Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).
Contact Fortawall for More Information
Navigating council approvals and compliance for temporary fencing can be complex—but Fortawall makes it simple. Whether you’re managing a major construction site in Melbourne, an infrastructure project in Perth, or a public event in Darwin, Fortawall supplies engineered, fully compliant fencing systems designed to meet the strictest Australian standards and local council requirements.
Our team can advise on permit triggers, wind ratings, and safety certifications to help you plan installations that pass council inspections and avoid costly delays. Don’t leave compliance to chance, partner with Fortawall for peace of mind on your next commercial project.
Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and secure temporary fencing that’s built for performance, safety, and full regulatory compliance.