Planning note: Building rules, product standards, taxes and professional requirements differ by location. Use this guide for preparation, then verify local requirements.
Confirm the line and ownership
Before measuring materials, establish where the boundary lies and who is responsible for it. A fence position shown by habit may not match legal documents. Discuss shared boundaries with neighbours before removing anything.
Check local rules for height, visibility near roads, protected locations and permits. Rules vary significantly between countries and municipalities.
Measure the complete run
Measure along the actual fence line and mark corners, gates and changes in level. Divide the run by the chosen panel or bay width, then remember that the number of posts is usually one more than the number of bays for a straight section.
Sloping ground can require stepped or raked construction. This affects panel type, post length and the amount of cutting.
Design for the site
Wind exposure, soil type, drainage and nearby trees influence post depth and material choice. Soft ground, retaining conditions and exposed coastal sites need more than a generic rule of thumb.
Locate underground utilities before digging. Mechanical digging near services can cause serious injury and expensive damage.
Include the small components
Budget for concrete or post supports, gravel boards, caps, fixings, treatment, hinges, latches and waste removal. Use fixings and timber treatments suitable for outdoor exposure.
Seek professional advice for retaining structures, uncertain boundaries, heavy gates, extreme exposure or safety risks.
Project checklist
- ✓ Confirm the boundary
- ✓ Check local height rules
- ✓ Mark gates and corners
- ✓ Assess soil and exposure
- ✓ Locate underground services
- ✓ List all fixings and supports
Turn the plan into an estimate
Use the related free calculator to test quantities, labour and a broad regional cost range.
Open the Fencing calculator →