Poland proposes new safety standards for residential fences

The Ministry of Development and Technology is working on new regulations regarding fence construction to increase safety for pedestrians and animals. A key proposal in the draft regulation involves raising the minimum height required for fences equipped with sharp elements, such as barbed wire, broken glass, or decorative spikes, from the current 1.8 meters to 2.2 meters.

An 18-month transitional period began on September 20, during which existing technical conditions and building laws remain in effect. This period allows the Ministry to finalize the legislative changes to the Building Law. The new rules are intended to apply primarily to new investments or significant reconstructions rather than existing structures; owners are not required to rebuild or modify fences that are already in place.

Other existing regulations remain in effect, such as the requirement that gates and wickets must not open outward onto public space. Additionally, gates must have a minimum clear width of 2.4 meters, while wickets must be at least 0.9 meters wide.