How wide is a standard fence panel in the UK?

The vast majority of standard fence panels in the UK are 6ft wide, which is exactly 1.83 metres. Some 'continental' or decorative panels are 1.80 metres wide. Always check the width before calculating, as even a 3cm difference can cause issues over a long run.

How many posts do I need for my fence?

You always need one more post than the number of panels. For example, a fence with 5 panels will require 6 posts (one at each end and one between each panel).

Do I need planning permission for a fence?

In the UK, you generally don't need planning permission for a fence that is under 2 metres (6ft 6in) high in a rear garden. For front gardens adjacent to a highway, the limit is usually 1 metre. Always check with your local council if you are in a conservation area.

Why should I use gravel boards?

Gravel boards sit between the ground and the bottom of your fence panel. They prevent the wooden panel from touching damp soil, which significantly reduces the risk of rot and extends the life of your fence by several years.

How wide is a standard fence panel in the UK?

The vast majority of standard fence panels in the UK are 6ft wide, which is exactly 1.83 metres. Some 'continental' or decorative panels are 1.80 metres wide. Always check the width before calculating, as even a 3cm difference can cause issues over a long run.

How many posts do I need for my fence?

You always need one more post than the number of panels. For example, a fence with 5 panels will require 6 posts (one at each end and one between each panel).

Do I need planning permission for a fence?

In the UK, you generally don't need planning permission for a fence that is under 2 metres (6ft 6in) high in a rear garden. For front gardens adjacent to a highway, the limit is usually 1 metre. Always check with your local council if you are in a conservation area.

Why should I use gravel boards?

Gravel boards sit between the ground and the bottom of your fence panel. They prevent the wooden panel from touching damp soil, which significantly reduces the risk of rot and extends the life of your fence by several years.

Fence Panel Calculator

Calculate materials for a secure garden boundary.

Total Fence Length (m)

Panel Width (m)

Post Width (m)

Boundary Materials

Fencing Tip: If your fence run doesn't end in a exact whole panel, you will need to cut one panel down to size. Always ensure you have a spare post for the final end of the run (our calculator includes this extra post).

Boundaries That Last: The UK Fencing Guide

Panels & Spacing

Installing a new fence is one of the most effective ways to secure your home and define your property lines. However, a slight miscalculation in the number of posts or panels can lead to expensive delays or a weak structure.

Our **fence panel calculator** accounts for the width of both the panels and the posts, ensuring your layout is accurate down to the centimetre.

Common Panel Widths

Standard Lap Panel1.83m (6ft)

Decorative/Slotted1.80m

Standard Post75mm / 100mm

Postcrete & Stability

For a 6ft fence, your posts should be at least **8ft (2.4m)** long, with 2ft (600mm) buried in the ground. Using a fast-setting post-mix concrete (often called 'Postcrete') is the standard UK method for securing posts.

Most trade professionals recommend using **1.5 to 2 bags** of Postcrete per post for a standard garden fence. Ensure the post is perfectly vertical using a spirit level before the concrete sets—usually in under 10 minutes.

Boundary Rules

Technically, there is no law stating which side of the fence you own. However, custom usually dictates that the 'best' side of the fence (the side without the posts and rails visible) should face your neighbour.

Fixing Clips

Using 'U-clips' to attach panels to posts is much better than nailing through the frame. Clips allow for slight movement in the wind and make it much easier to replace a damaged panel in the future.

Pro Tip: Treat Your Cuts

Whenever you cut a pressure-treated fence panel or post, you expose untreated wood in the centre. Always apply a **brush-on end-grain preservative** to any cut surfaces to prevent rot from starting at the joints.

Fencing & Post FAQ

Project Disclaimer

Fence stability depends heavily on soil conditions and wind exposure. In high-wind areas, consider using thicker posts or panels with gaps (like 'hit-and-miss' fencing) to reduce wind resistance. Always confirm boundary ownership with your property deeds.