DIY Builds
Photo by Laura Tancredi Pexels Logo Photo: Laura Tancredi

How high can you legally build a fence?

Are there any legal rules and regulations I need to consider? In the UK, the norm is that fencing in your back garden should be a maximum height of 2 metres (about 6.5 feet) and the front garden of your property should be 1 metre (3.2 feet).

lawsons.co.uk - What height should my fence be - Lawsons
Can a wheelchair fit through a 22 inch door?
Can a wheelchair fit through a 22 inch door?

Narrow Electric / Power Wheelchairs It's portable too, disassembling in four steps, and can carry people up to 300 pounds. And with a total width...

Read More »
Last updated Apr 3, 2021
How often should you clean your gutters?
How often should you clean your gutters?

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters? Speaking in general terms, you should make a point of cleaning your gutters at least twice a year....

Read More »
Last updated Jul 20, 2018
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion

What height should my fence be ?

When erecting a new fence or replacing an old one, you should consider how high your fence should be. In this blog we explore various factors, which could determine what height you may keep your fencing such as privacy, location, legal matters and local rules and regulations.

Are there any legal rules and regulations I need to consider?

In the UK, the norm is that fencing in your back garden should be a maximum height of 2 metres (about 6.5 feet) and the front garden of your property should be 1 metre (3.2 feet). If you wish to erect a fence that is higher than 2 metres or a fence will be higher than 1 metre and next to a highway then you will need to apply for planning permission from your local council. Moreover, it’s important to remember that different local councils will have different restrictions regarding fencing and properties, so it is best practice to always check with your local authority for rules and regulations on the matter.

For more information please visit your local council website.

Don’t forget your neighbours…

When erecting a new fence and choosing the height of your fence, it’s always best to consider your neighbours and the impact this height will have on their garden. Factors such as how high or low your land sits in comparison to your neighbours will have an impact, and because height is calculated from your ground level, this is something you will need to take into account. Before erecting a new fence or making drastic height changes, it would be wise to have a chat with your neighbour and inform them about your plans. This way you can settle and agree on a height which both you and your neighbours are comfortable with.

Fence Height - General Guidelines

Now you understand some of the legalities towards fence heights, below you can find some general guidelines, which might influence the fence height you have.

Privacy

How long does a wooden garage door last?
How long does a wooden garage door last?

15 to 30 years Garage doors typically last 15 to 30 years, but this can vary depending on the following factors. Maintenance: If you treat your...

Read More »
Last updated Mar 2, 2019
Should you insulate an outdoor shed?
Should you insulate an outdoor shed?

Benefits of Insulating Your Shed Extreme temperatures can damage sensitive items, like paints, electronics, pottery, and more. Insulating your shed...

Read More »
Last updated Apr 13, 2020
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Promotion

If your ultimate goal for installing a wooden fence is privacy, then for sufficient security and privacy, we recommend opting for a 6 foot fence panel. This will keep your property secure and keep intruders out.

Fence posts size

The higher your fence is, the more prone it is to be affected by bad winds, so to secure your fence panels and when erecting a new fence, remember the 2 foot rule for fence posts. We recommend you should dig a hole which has a depth of 2 foot (24 inches / 600mm) to ensure you have a stable timber or concrete fence post. This will also secure your overall fence. Not sure about what fence post to purchase for your chosen fence panel? View our fence post guide below:

Style of fence

Where privacy isn’t a concern, and you don’t want a 6 foot fence panel, then you can choose different styles of fencing, depending on the role you want your fence to play in your garden. Softer boundary can be achieved by opting for a lower 4 foot or 5 foot fence panel – you can add a trellis topper for aesthetics Give your front garden a more welcoming feel by choosing a 3 foot panel Decorative panels come in various heights, but when you’re not concerned about security, then these panels will beautify your garden We hope this article has been helpful to understanding key factors which influence the size of fence you will erect in your garden. For more information, get in touch with our expert team who are happy to help.

Related Articles

Do you need your neighbour’s permission to replace a fence?

How to install a fence?

How deep do I need to dig my Fence Post?

Fencing and the Law - Know Your Rights Before Choosing New Fencing

lawsons.co.uk - What height should my fence be - Lawsons
Can I bury an extension cord in PVC?
Can I bury an extension cord in PVC?

If you're going to bury an extension or power cord, even temporarily, you'll want to bury it in a PVC conduit pipe. Specifically, you'll need rigid...

Read More »
Last updated Feb 28, 2018
Are screws or dowels stronger?
Are screws or dowels stronger?

Dowel Strength Dowel joinery is stronger than screw joinery. The increased glue surface caused by the glue deeply penetrating the wood gives the...

Read More »
Last updated Nov 27, 2019
Are tiny homes still popular in 2022?
Are tiny homes still popular in 2022?

Some will say that tiny homes are a fad, but the trend is still going strong. In fact, the market is set to grow by $3.57 billion between 2022 and...

Read More »
Last updated Oct 22, 2018
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »
Promotion
What is better plastic or metal sheds?
What is better plastic or metal sheds?

Plastic sheds will withstand water and snow much better than their metal and wooden counterparts. There is no need to worry about rusting or...

Read More »
Last updated Jul 14, 2022