Alright, let’s talk about barrier height. If you’re putting up a fence, a pool barrier, or even a deck railing, you’ve probably realised there are rules about how high it needs to be. It’s not just about looks—barrier height is there to keep people (especially kids) safe and to make sure your property meets council regulations. So, here’s what you need to know.

Pool Fences: The Magic Number is 1.2 Metres

If you’ve got a pool (or you’re planning one), the law says you need a fence that’s at least 1.2 metres high. That’s the absolute minimum. The reason? It helps stop young kids from wandering into the water unsupervised. The gaps in the fence also matter—there shouldn’t be any gaps bigger than 100mm where a child could squeeze through. Oh, and don’t forget about things nearby—kids are creative climbers, so make sure there’s nothing they can use as a step to get over the fence. More details? Check out Building Performance NZ.

Deck Railings: Keeping You Safe

If your deck is 1 metre or higher off the ground, you need a barrier (like a balustrade) that’s at least 1 metre high. But if the deck is over 1.5 metres up, the barrier might need to be even taller. This is all about preventing serious falls—especially useful if you’ve got kids running around or you enjoy having a wine on the deck and don’t want any unexpected tumbles. You can find official guidance on the NZ Building Code website.

Front Fences and Boundary Rules

Thinking about putting up a tall front fence for privacy? Here’s the deal: most councils will let you go up to 2 metres without needing special permission. Anything taller, and you’ll probably need to get a resource consent. Some places, especially in cities, have extra height restrictions so you don’t block street views or sunlight for your neighbours. Before you go all-in on that towering fence, check with your local council—Aucklanders, you can head to the Auckland Council website for specifics.

Wind and Strength: Taller Might Not Always Be Better

Going for a tall fence? You’ll need to think about the wind. In gusty areas, anything over 1.8 metres could catch the wind like a sail, which means you might need stronger posts, deeper footings, or different materials. For advice, places like Mitre 10 or Bunnings have guides on choosing the right fencing materials.

Final Thought: Check Before You Build

Before you grab the tools, check your local council rules—every area has different regulations, especially with boundary fences. And if you’re hiring a builder, make sure they know the local rules too. Better to double-check now than rip out a non-compliant fence later.

Want to take the next step? Your council website is the best place to start, and if you need materials, head to local stores like PlaceMakers or Bunnings to see what’s available.