Garden Fence Height in the UK

Thursday 21st August 2025

Fencing Team

Introduction
When planning to build a fence in your garden, one of the most important things to consider is garden fence height in the UK. Understanding the legal limits and regulations surrounding fence heights can save you time, money, and potential legal headaches. Whether you're building a fence for privacy, security, or simply to enhance the appearance of your property, adhering to the correct height limits ensures your fence will not only meet legal requirements but will also be a lasting addition to your garden.
In this article, we'll cover the key regulations regarding fence heights in the UK, when planning permission is needed, and offer tips on how to ensure your fence meets both aesthetic and legal standards.
Legal Height Limits Without Planning Permission
Front Garden Fences
In the UK, the height of fences in front gardens is subject to specific regulations. Typically, the maximum height for a front garden fence is 1 metre (approximately 3.3 feet). This limit applies when the fence is located next to a highway used by vehicles or a footpath of such a highway. The reason for this restriction is to ensure visibility and safety. A fence that’s too high in a front garden could obstruct the view of drivers and pedestrians, leading to potential hazards.
This height limit helps maintain a balance between privacy and safety, while still allowing homeowners to add some decorative flair to their front garden. However, if your fence is not adjacent to a highway, you may have more flexibility in terms of height.
Back Garden Fences
For back gardens, the rules are slightly more relaxed. The maximum height for a back garden fence is generally 2 metres (or 6.6 feet). This height limit applies to fences that are not adjacent to a highway or footpath, where privacy and security are more of a concern than visibility.
Fences of this height are ideal for ensuring privacy from neighbours while maintaining a pleasant and secure environment. Back gardens are often more secluded than front gardens, so this height limit provides homeowners the opportunity to create a more personal and intimate space.
When Planning Permission Is Required
While the general height limits are straightforward, there are circumstances where you will need to apply for planning permission to erect or alter a fence. These situations typically involve fences that exceed the standard height limits or where the fence is located in areas subject to additional restrictions.
Fences exceeding the above height limits: If you want to build a fence higher than 1 metre in a front garden or 2 metres in a back garden, you will need to seek planning permission.

Fences adjacent to highways or footpaths: Fences that exceed 1 metre in height when placed next to a highway or footpath will also require planning permission.

Alterations to existing fences: If you’re looking to increase the height of an existing fence beyond the legal limits, you will need to apply for permission from your local planning authority.

Properties in conservation areas or near listed buildings: In areas with specific historical or architectural significance, such as conservation areas or near listed buildings, planning permission is usually required for any fence installations, even if they are within the standard height limits.

Use of certain materials or designs: Some materials or designs may not comply with local planning regulations. For example, the use of hazardous materials like barbed wire or broken glass is generally prohibited, and certain decorative elements may not be allowed.

Before proceeding with any fence installation or modification, it’s essential to check with your local planning authority to confirm whether planning permission is required.
Additional Considerations
Fence Materials
The material you choose for your fence can also affect whether you need planning permission. In general, common materials like timber, metal, and plastic fences are acceptable within the legal height limits. However, materials like brick, stone, or concrete may require planning permission, especially if they are used to create a solid barrier.
Using materials that are not in keeping with local building traditions or the character of a conservation area can lead to complications, so it’s worth considering how your choice of materials will impact the overall look and feel of your property.
Trellis Additions
Trellis panels are a popular addition to fences, providing both extra height and a decorative touch. Trellis can be added to the top of a fence to create additional height for climbing plants or simply for visual appeal. However, it's important to note that trellis additions must not increase the overall fence height beyond the permitted limit.
Trellis should be designed for plant growth and should not be solid. This ensures that the addition maintains the visual transparency needed to comply with regulations and helps preserve light and air circulation in your garden.
Boundary Disputes
When building or altering a fence, it's crucial to consider the impact on your neighbours. While the local council will enforce legal fence height limits, it’s good practice to communicate your plans with your neighbours, especially if you’re planning to install a taller fence or make significant changes to your boundary.
Be aware that the height of the fence is measured from your ground level, which means that if your land sits higher or lower than your neighbour’s land, it could affect how tall the fence appears from their side. It’s important to check your property deeds to determine exactly where your boundaries lie to avoid potential disputes.
If you’re unsure about the legalities or if there’s any chance of a disagreement, it’s advisable to seek legal advice or consider mediation with your neighbour.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Not adhering to fence height regulations can result in significant consequences. If you build a fence that doesn’t meet the legal height limits or doesn’t comply with local planning permission requirements, you may face penalties and enforcement actions from your local council.
Enforcement notices: Local planning authorities have the power to issue enforcement notices, requiring you to remove or alter non-compliant fences.

Fines: The penalties for failing to comply can be hefty. Initially, you could face a fine of £2,500, and for persistent non-compliance, the fine could rise to £20,000.

It’s always best to ensure your fence complies with local regulations to avoid these consequences and ensure a smooth and hassle-free installation process.
Conclusion
Understanding and following the garden fence height regulations in the UK is essential for anyone planning to build or modify a fence. By adhering to the legal height limits and obtaining the necessary planning permission when required, you can avoid legal complications and create a fence that enhances both your privacy and the aesthetic appeal of your garden.
Remember, always check with your local planning authority before proceeding with any fence installation, especially if you plan to exceed the standard height limits. Additionally, consider the impact your fence will have on your neighbours and communicate with them to maintain good relations.
If you're unsure about the regulations or need help finding the right fence for your garden, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts like those at Fencing Direct. We can guide you through the process and help you select the perfect fence for your needs.

FAQs
Do I need planning permission when installing garden fencing?
Generally, you will need planning permission if your fence is over 1 metre high and is adjacent to a highway or footpath. Fences over 2 metres in height also require permission, regardless of location. Always check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance.
What is the maximum fence height for a front garden?
In the UK, the maximum fence height for a front garden is 1 metre (approximately 3.3 feet) if it is adjacent to a highway or footpath. If the fence is not next to these areas, the height may vary, but it's important to check local regulations.
Can I add a trellis to my fence?
Yes, you can add a trellis to the top of your fence, but it must not increase the overall height beyond the legal limit. Trellis should be designed for plant growth and should not block light or air circulation.
What are the penalties for not complying with fence height regulations?
If you fail to comply with fence height regulations, you may be required to reduce or remove the fence. You could face fines, starting at £2,500 for initial non-compliance, and up to £20,000 for repeated violations.