Fence Calculator
How It Works
Common Fence Types
Tips
- Buy 5–10% extra materials for waste, cutting, and the occasional damaged board.
- Call 811 (Dig Safe) before digging any post holes. Utility line marking is free and required by law in the US.
- Check property lines before installation — building on a neighbor's property even by an inch can create legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart should fence posts be?
Standard post spacing is 6–8 feet. Most pre-cut fence panels and rails are sold in 8-foot lengths to match this spacing. For wood privacy fences, 8-foot spacing is common. For chain-link, 10-foot spacing is sometimes used. Closer spacing (6 ft) provides more stability but requires more posts and materials.
How deep should fence posts be?
The standard rule is to bury one-third of the post underground. For a 6-foot fence, use 9-foot posts and bury 3 feet. In areas with frost heave, posts must go below the frost line — typically 36–48 inches deep in cold climates.
How much concrete do I need per post?
A standard 10-inch diameter hole, 3 feet deep requires about 0.12 cubic feet of concrete — roughly half a 50-lb bag of Quikrete. For a typical fence with posts every 8 feet, budget one 50-lb bag per post.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Many municipalities require permits for fences over a certain height (commonly 4–6 feet) or in certain locations (front yard vs. back yard). Always check local zoning rules and HOA guidelines before building. Property line surveys are also advisable to avoid neighbor disputes.