An independent UK guide to garden fencing, gates and boundaries
Garden fencing, gates and boundaries, explained clearly
Practical, independent guidance for UK homeowners on choosing, building and looking after a garden fence, and on the rules that come with it.
Fenceline Handbook is an independent guide for people in the UK who are putting up, replacing, repairing or arguing about a garden fence. We explain how the common fence types differ, what the planning rules actually say, who is responsible for a boundary and how to do the practical jobs properly. We do not sell fencing, take advertising or recommend installers.
Start here
Most fencing questions fall into three groups: what to build, whether you are allowed to build it, and how to build or fix it. These guides cover all three.
Garden fence types compared
Closeboard, lap panels, picket, slatted, hit-and-miss, metal and composite, side by side.
Fence height rules and planning permission
The 2 m and 1 m limits, listed buildings, conservation areas and UK differences.
Who owns the fence?
Title plans, T-marks, myths and calm ways to settle boundary disputes.
Concrete vs timber posts and gravel boards
Strength, lifespan, sizes and depths for the parts that fail first.
How to install fence panels
Setting out, posts, gravel boards, panels and slopes, step by step.
Treating and staining timber
UC3 and UC4 use classes, finishes and a simple yearly routine.
Repairs, boundaries and budgets
Repairing storm damage
Snapped posts, blown-out panels, repair spurs and insurance points.
Hedges vs fences
Costs, wildlife, overhanging branches and the high hedges complaint system.
Garden gates and security
Placing, bracing, hanging and locking gates properly.
Fencing for dogs and wildlife
Escape-proofing for dogs while leaving a hedgehog highway open.
Fence costs in 2026
Approximate per-metre ranges and how to compare quotes.
How we approach the subject
Fencing advice is full of rules of thumb that are half right. "The left fence is yours." "You can build up to six feet anywhere." "Treated timber never rots." We check claims like these against primary sources, especially GOV.UK, the Planning Portal and legislation, and say clearly where the answer differs in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland or depends on your council. You can read more in how we research and our editorial policy.
Our guides are general information. For a live boundary dispute, a planning decision or a structurally demanding project, speak to your local planning authority, a solicitor or a suitably experienced professional.
The guides are written by Gareth Owen. If you spot something that is out of date or wrong, please tell us.