In newer communities you will usually find more attractive fences and elaborate gateways. The style of fencing around the community will often be repeated throughout the neighbourhood itself, especially if it is a higher-end housing development. However, these elaborate fences are usually only found in the more visible areas as cost can be an issue. When it comes to the backs of communities, the fencing becomes more cost effective. Often these fences utilize more of the standard wood products, however, the colour and theme is usually similar to the more dramatic features near the entrance. Some developers use elegant wrought iron, others use stone or brick, while a fence utilizing several different materials surrounds other communities. Quite often there are decorative posts made from brick or stone, with the main part of the fence comprising of wood or stucco. In this way the cost of the fencing is reduced while still being attractive.

Communities that back onto major roads or highways often offer large sound-barrier walls, which also cut down on dust and offer more privacy. In older neighbourhoods, the majority of homeowners whose yards will be affected must approve these sound-barrier walls. This is due to the fact that the cost is usually tacked on to property taxes. In some cases, where the city plans to expand a roadway or increase traffic, the cost of the wall is included as part of the infrastructure costs. On the other hand, developers building new communities in such areas quite often include this wall as an incentive to buy a home in their community. However, whether or not a fence is provided, there may still be architectural controls upon what type of fence, material or colour can be used. The land developers decide how a community will look. Due to the fact that many communities are developed in phases or stages, the architectural controls are usually binding for a period of years. Just how many years, will vary from developer to developer and from one community to another.

When purchasing a new home, the developer will let you know whether or not you will be required to build your own fence. If the responsibility does fall on you, find out what the restrictions are before you start planning your fence. Besides architectural controls, there are also city bylaws to take into consideration. Backyard fences can be no taller than six and a half feet and the maximum height of a front yard fence is only four feet, whereas a gateway can be as tall as eight feet There are also other restrictions for corner lots and utility access areas. The best thing to do is to phone the City of Calgary, or check on-line through the City of Calgary development and building approvals. In some cases you may be required to buy a building permit. However, in most cases, if you plan to follow the guidelines, then no permit is necessary. Just know that if you hire a contractor to do the job, they will often consider it your responsibility to obtain such permits and know what is allowed in your particular circumstances. Restrictions aside, the type of fence you choose will depend on your preferences and your pocketbook. Most new-home buyers tend to want a fence as soon as possible and choose the most cost effective fence that is available. Cedar or pressure treated lumber are usually the best wood fence choices as they are more weather and insect resistant, however there are hundreds of options available so it’s a good idea to do some research ahead of time. Most building supply stores have a great selection and staff to help you learn a bit about some of the products available, and if you take a drive around to some of the neighbourhoods around Calgary then you’ll be able to get some ideas of your own as well.

Just remember, there are two sides to every fence, and building a fence between properties is a private issue between neighbours. So get out and meet your new neighbours as soon as possible and you might even make some good friends. If you can share some of the cost with you neighbours, you might all be able to have a better choice of fencing available to you.