{"id":1308,"date":"2023-04-12T17:21:56","date_gmt":"2023-04-12T17:21:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/?p=1308"},"modified":"2023-07-04T19:39:29","modified_gmt":"2023-07-04T19:39:29","slug":"how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/","title":{"rendered":"How High Can A Garden Fence Be? A Guide to Garden Fence Height Regulations in the UK"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>When it comes to gardening, fencing is a crucial aspect not only for aesthetic appeal but also for privacy, safety, and marking boundaries. However, erecting a garden fence isn&#8217;t as simple as buying some panels and posts. In the UK, there are specific rules and regulations about how high your garden fence can be. Here&#8217;s everything you need to know on how high your garden fence can be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Understanding_Fence_Height_Regulations\" title=\"Understanding Fence Height Regulations\">Understanding Fence Height Regulations<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#1_Fences_Next_to_a_Highway\" title=\"1. Fences Next to a Highway\">1. Fences Next to a Highway<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#2_Rear_Garden_Fences\" title=\"2. Rear Garden Fences\">2. Rear Garden Fences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#3_Fences_Between_Neighbours\" title=\"3. Fences Between Neighbours\">3. Fences Between Neighbours<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Obtaining_Planning_Permission\" title=\"Obtaining Planning Permission\">Obtaining Planning Permission<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Other_Considerations\" title=\"Other Considerations\">Other Considerations<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#1_Ownership\" title=\"1. Ownership:\">1. Ownership:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#2_Design\" title=\"2. Design:\">2. Design:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#3_Maintenance\" title=\"3. Maintenance:\">3. Maintenance:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#What_if_I_want_to_build_a_fence_higher_than_the_regulations_allow\" title=\"What if I want to build a fence higher than the regulations allow?\">What if I want to build a fence higher than the regulations allow?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Can_I_attach_something_to_the_top_of_my_fence_to_make_it_taller\" title=\"Can I attach something to the top of my fence to make it taller?\">Can I attach something to the top of my fence to make it taller?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#What_happens_if_I_build_a_fence_too_high_without_permission\" title=\"What happens if I build a fence too high without permission?\">What happens if I build a fence too high without permission?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#Does_my_neighbour_have_a_say_in_the_height_of_my_fence\" title=\"Does my neighbour have a say in the height of my fence?\">Does my neighbour have a say in the height of my fence?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#How_can_I_find_out_who_owns_the_fence\" title=\"How can I find out who owns the fence?\">How can I find out who owns the fence?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/how-high-can-a-garden-fence-be\/#What_is_the_maximum_height_for_a_gate_in_the_UK\" title=\"What is the maximum height for a gate in the UK?\">What is the maximum height for a gate in the UK?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Fence_Height_Regulations\"><\/span>Understanding Fence Height Regulations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The maximum height of a garden fence in the UK is determined by its location and its proximity to a highway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Fences_Next_to_a_Highway\"><\/span>1. Fences Next to a Highway<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your fence is next to a highway (which includes the pavement and footpath) or it&#8217;s your front garden fence, the legal height limit is 1 metre or about 3.3 feet. This is to ensure safety and visibility for pedestrians and vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Rear_Garden_Fences\"><\/span>2. Rear Garden Fences<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For fences at the rear of the property, which do not border a highway, the maximum height is 2 metres or about 6.5 feet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<p>As Jimmy Englezos, Senior Product Manager at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ronseal.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.ronseal.com\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Ronseal<\/a>, explains, &#8220;Most councils allow you to build a fence up to two meters (6.5 feet) high. If you want to build higher, you will need planning permission so check with your local council.&#8221; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>He further elucidates on fence panels, &#8220;When you buy a fence panel, it might be higher than two meters. But don\u2019t worry, this is to account for the portion that you will secure in the ground.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-rounded\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-thumbnail\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Jimmy-Head-Shot-150x150.png\" alt=\"Jimmy Englezos\" class=\"wp-image-1324\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Jimmy-Head-Shot-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Jimmy-Head-Shot-75x75.png 75w, https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Jimmy-Head-Shot-350x350.png 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Fences_Between_Neighbours\"><\/span>3. Fences Between Neighbours<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are no specific legal height limits for fences between neighbours&#8217; gardens, but it&#8217;s generally accepted that rear fences can be up to 2 metres tall. However, it&#8217;s always a good idea to discuss any fencing plans with your neighbours before installation to maintain a harmonious relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Obtaining_Planning_Permission\"><\/span>Obtaining Planning Permission<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Should you wish to have a fence higher than the standard legal limits, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.planningportal.co.uk\/permission\/common-projects\/fences-gates-and-garden-walls\/planning-permission\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">you will need to apply for planning permission from your local council<\/a>. When deciding on your application, the council will consider the potential impact of your proposed fence on neighbours, the local area, and any relevant codes or regulations. Keep in mind that obtaining planning permission might involve fees and take time, so it&#8217;s advisable to plan ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Considerations\"><\/span>Other Considerations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While height is a significant factor, it&#8217;s not the only thing to consider when installing a garden fence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Ownership\"><\/span>1. Ownership:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Determine who owns the boundary fence. The deeds to your property may indicate this. If the fence is yours, you can make changes to it, subject to regulations. However, if it&#8217;s your neighbour&#8217;s, you&#8217;ll need to discuss any changes with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Design\"><\/span>2. Design:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The design of the fence might impact how intrusive it appears. For instance, a trellis or a fence with spaced boards can provide privacy while still allowing light through and appearing less obtrusive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Maintenance\"><\/span>3. Maintenance:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen fencing materials. Wood fences need regular treatment to prevent rot, while metal or composite fencing might need less upkeep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, while you may wish for a high fence for reasons like privacy, it&#8217;s essential to know the legal limitations and obtain necessary permissions to avoid potential disputes. Respecting these boundaries contributes to a harmonious and respectful neighbourhood environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, a well-thought-out and correctly installed fence can provide the finishing touch to your garden, offering a blend of privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499320206\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_if_I_want_to_build_a_fence_higher_than_the_regulations_allow\"><\/span><strong>What if I want to build a fence higher than the regulations allow?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>If you wish to build a fence higher than the regulations permit, you need to apply for planning permission from your local council. They will consider factors such as the potential impact on neighbours and the local environment before making a decision.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499335467\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_attach_something_to_the_top_of_my_fence_to_make_it_taller\"><\/span><strong>Can I attach something to the top of my fence to make it taller?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Any additions that make the fence taller, including trellises or extensions, must also adhere to the height regulations. If the total height, including the added parts, exceeds the allowed limit, you&#8217;ll need planning permission.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499347531\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_if_I_build_a_fence_too_high_without_permission\"><\/span><strong>What happens if I build a fence too high without permission?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>If you construct a fence that&#8217;s too high without the necessary planning permission, you may receive an enforcement notice requiring you to lower or remove the fence. Non-compliance can result in fines.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499359423\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_my_neighbour_have_a_say_in_the_height_of_my_fence\"><\/span><strong>Does my neighbour have a say in the height of my fence?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Although there aren&#8217;t strict legal rules about this, it&#8217;s generally considered good practice to discuss your plans with your neighbour, especially if the fence is on a shared boundary. This can help maintain good relations and prevent disputes.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499381642\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_find_out_who_owns_the_fence\"><\/span><strong>How can I find out who owns the fence?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Ownership details may be included in your property deeds. If you can&#8217;t find this information or the deeds are unclear, try discussing it with your neighbour or consult a solicitor.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1688499399987\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_maximum_height_for_a_gate_in_the_UK\"><\/span><strong>What is the maximum height for a gate in the UK?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Gates that face a highway, similar to fences, should not exceed 1 metre in height without planning permission. For other gates, such as those in the rear garden, the height limit is typically 2 metres. However, any specific covenant on your property might dictate otherwise.<\/p>\n<p>Remember, the rules can vary slightly based on your local authority, so it&#8217;s always best to check with them if you&#8217;re uncertain. The goal is to balance your needs and preferences with respect for regulations and your neighbours.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When it comes to gardening, fencing is a crucial aspect not only for aesthetic appeal but also for privacy, safety, and marking boundaries. However, erecting a garden fence isn&#8217;t as simple as buying some panels and posts. In the UK, there are specific rules and regulations about how high your garden fence can be. Here&#8217;s [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1309,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[39],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1308"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1308"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1308\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1331,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1308\/revisions\/1331"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1309"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1308"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1308"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenlist.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1308"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}