Brick wall on my front lot line in Orleans, how high?

A freestanding brick wall along a front lot line may count as a fence under the City's Fence By-law (2003-462), and if it does, the height limit in a front yard is 1 m, measured from grade at the base of the wall.

A few details matter here. Where the grades on each side of the wall differ, height is measured from the higher grade. If the wall sits within a corner-lot triangle of 3 m along the lot lines, or within a 2 m driveway triangle, the limit drops to 75 cm. In any other yard the limit is 213 cm, but a front lot line is a front yard.

The by-law defines a fence as any freestanding structure, wall or barrier erected at grade to delineate a property boundary, restrict access, or provide security or protection. A brick wall along your front lot line may fit that description; confirm with the City before work begins.

One more thing worth checking: if the wall holds back soil on one side, it becomes a retaining wall rather than a garden wall, and that is a different scope of work; ottawapatios.com covers retaining walls.

Before you sign a quote, ask the mason what footing depth they plan and how they will confirm the wall meets the City's fence height rules for your lot.