Can I make my garden fence higher in the UK? Rules to note

Here is whether you can make your garden fence higher and the rules you need to know <i>(Image: Getty Images)</i>
Here is whether you can make your garden fence higher and the rules you need to know (Image: Getty Images)
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Garden fences can be a tricky subject, and whether you already have one or are moving into a new home with one, there may be questions around it that you are wondering about.

From who is responsible for each side to whether you can go into your neighbour's garden to fix it, it can be tricky to know the answer.

Another question sometimes asked is if you can make your garden fence higher.

With common misconceptions around this area of property law, here is all to know.



Can I make my garden fence higher in the UK? Rules to note

In the UK, you can make your garden fence higher, but height restrictions must be considered.

Terry Fisher, property expert at Sold.co.uk, has explained.

He said: "Yes, it is possible to make your garden fence higher, and there are a number of reasons why this would be a good option.

"Maybe your neighbours have cut down a high hedge or some substantial trees, meaning your garden is now overlooked.

"It could be the case that you have removed some shrubbery, resulting in the same scenario."

"Fences can also play a factor in noise reduction, as they can help deflect the hum of traffic on a main road to keep your home quieter."

How to make your garden fence higher

If you are looking to make your garden fence higher, there are many ways to do this.

Expert Mr Fisher suggested buying larger panels, but these may require higher fence posts to support them.

He added: “Rather than dig up your existing post, simply add extenders at the top which can often be matched to maintain the aesthetic.

"Extenders are also useful if you want to use fence toppers, which are decorative pieces designed to be placed on top of the existing panels."

He suggested another approach to take could be to attach trellis or lattice at the top, which can support climbing plants and offer an "attractive alternative".

How high can a garden fence be in the UK?

Mr Fisher said: "When it comes to the height of fences, the main rule to stick by is anything above two meters tall will require planning permission.


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"However, if the fence borders a public highway or footpath, it can't exceed one metre - which is viewed as a safety measure in terms of visibility.

"The rules may vary slightly from area to area, so it's always worth checking the local planning regulations before you erect a higher fence.

“Situations involving conservation areas and listed buildings can also mean different rules."

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