Property Line Rules in Ontario

Hello everyone Fanis here:

As a real estate agent working across Toronto, Durham Region, and surrounding areas, one topic that comes up more often than you might expect is property lines—especially when it comes to fences, trees, and shared driveways.

It’s not the most glamorous part of buying or owning a home, but trust me—it matters. A beautiful yard or newly built fence can quickly become a headache if it’s even a few inches over the line.

Here’s what I often tell my clients: before you build, plant, or even trim a tree near a property line, take a moment to check the rules.

In Ontario, fences built on the line are typically a shared responsibility, but not always. And trees? You can’t cut one down just because it hangs onto your side.

If the trunk straddles the boundary, it’s legally shared.

Even shared driveways have their own set of rules.

Many people assume they can use the full width, but that’s not always the case.

Understanding these little details helps prevent tension with neighbours and protects your investment long-term.

If you’re unsure about the boundaries of a home you’re buying—or even one you already own—get a proper survey done.

And if you’re not sure where to start, I’m always happy to guide you through it.

Let’s ensure your home isn’t just beautiful, but also legally sound.

Feel free to DM me personally with real estate questions!

Fanis Makrigiannis
REALTOR® | RE/MAX Rouge River Realty Ltd.
905.449.4166
[email protected]
www.fanis.ca

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