Clearing a fence line

Four metres, both sides together

Two state exemptions let vegetation along a boundary fence be cleared without a planning permit. Both cap the clearing at 4 m wide across the two sides of the fence combined.

The bushfire exemption

Any vegetation, trees included, along a boundary fence between properties in different ownership, in a designated Bushfire Prone Area, where the fence was built before 10 September 2009. Where one side is already cleared 4 m or more, it allows 1 m on the second side. It applies only to the part of the fence inside the Bushfire Prone Area.

The native vegetation exemption

Native vegetation, to the minimum extent needed to operate or maintain an existing fence, or to build a new boundary fence between properties in different ownership. It doesn't cover new fences inside your own block.

Checked 25 October 2026 against Victoria Planning Provisions, Clause 52.12 (bushfire protection exemptions), DELWP: vegetation exemptions for bushfire protection (fact sheet) and Victoria Planning Provisions, Clause 52.17 (native vegetation).

What they don't do

Neither exemption reaches past the 4 m, or to a new internal fence, and the planning exemption for building a fence doesn't extend to removing vegetation for it, so clearing beyond the exemptions can need a permit. A tree on the line may also be your neighbour's, so it's wise to agree before anything is cut, and to check the overlays on your property report.

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Checked 25 October 2026 against Victoria Planning Provisions, Clause 62.02 (buildings and works) and Victoria Planning Provisions, Clause 52.17 (native vegetation).

Asking for a quote

Say how long the line is, what is growing on it, and whether the old fence is still standing. Photos along the line help. Clearing big trees is an arborist's job as much as a fencer's, so say if there are any.