Fence Height Rules and Boundary Basics

As a general rule, a fence, wall or gate can be up to two metres high without planning permission, reducing to one metre where it adjoins a highway used by vehicles — which includes most front gardens.

Restrictions differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and where a planning condition or covenant removes permitted development rights.

Your title plan and any deed covenants are the authority. The widespread belief that the posts always face the owner's side is a convention, not a rule.

Where the boundary is genuinely shared, agreeing the specification and cost split in writing before work starts saves a great deal of difficulty.

Keep the fence within your boundary, give notice before starting, and arrange access rather than assuming it. Building on your own side means you never depend on permission to maintain it.

For trellis or a height increase, check the total height including any addition.