How High Can a Fence Be? UK Fence Height Rules
In short: in England and Wales you can put up a garden fence of up to 2 metres without planning permission. Next to a road used by vehicles, or the footpath along it, the limit is 1 metre. Anything higher needs planning permission, and listed buildings, some conservation areas and housing estates with covenants have stricter rules.
How high can a fence be without planning permission?
Fences, walls and gates fall under permitted development rights. These are the limits:
| Where the fence goes | Maximum height without permission |
|---|---|
| Back garden and side boundaries | 2 metres |
| Next to a road used by vehicles, or its footpath | 1 metre |
| Around a listed building | Permission usually needed, whatever the height |
Your council can also have removed permitted development rights with an Article 4 direction, which happens in some conservation areas. On newer estates, the deeds often contain covenants about front gardens and boundary fences. Check both before you order.
How high can a fence be between neighbours?
The same 2 metre limit applies between two back gardens, also when the fence stands right on the boundary. You do not need your neighbour's permission for a fence within the limits, but it is worth talking it through first, especially about who owns and maintains the boundary.
How high can a front garden fence be?
If your front garden borders a road, the limit is 1 metre. That keeps sight lines clear for drivers and pedestrians. Many front gardens are lower still because of estate covenants.
What height do most people choose?
For privacy in a back garden, 1.8 metres (6 ft) is the most common height, followed by 2 metres. At 1.8 metres most adults standing cannot see over it. If your patio sits higher than next door's garden, 2 metres is the better choice.
Our Ipe slatted fences are built from horizontal slats of 50, 70 or 90 mm with a 5 mm gap. You set the height by the number of rows:
- 1.8 metres: about 33 rows of 50 mm, 24 of 70 mm or 19 of 90 mm.
- 2 metres: about 36 rows of 50 mm, 27 of 70 mm or 21 of 90 mm.
- Lower works too, for example 1 metre along a front garden.
For more privacy without going higher, EPDM sheeting behind the slats blocks the view and dampens noise. The slats are fixed with stainless steel clips to 60 x 60 mm Azobe posts, which stay out of sight.
Fence height questions
Can I put up a fence higher than 2 metres?
Only with planning permission from your council. Apply before you order the materials.
What is the standard garden fence height in the UK?
1.8 metres (6 ft) for back gardens. Front boundaries along a road stay at 1 metre or lower.
Do these rules apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland?
Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own planning rules. Check with your local council there.
Know your height? The fence calculator works out slats, posts and clips for your length and height. Or browse all Ipe fences.
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