Whether you want to secure a yard, a school boundary or a home, one of the first questions is whether the fence needs planning permission. The good news is that many do not. The less good news is that security fencing is often taller than the standard limits, so it pays to check first.
The basic height limits (England)
A new fence, wall or gate is normally permitted development if it is:
- no more than 2 metres high in most places, or
- no more than 1 metre high if it is next to a highway used by vehicles, including the pavement beside it.
The height is measured from the ground at the point where it is tallest. A gravel board or trellis on top counts towards the total, so a 1.8 metre panel on a gravel board with trellis can be over the limit.
Why security fencing often needs permission
Most security fencing is higher than 2 metres. Palisade fencing commonly runs from 2 metres to 3 metres, and weld mesh and Paladin systems also go tall. Anything above the limit usually needs a planning application unless an exception applies or the work is on a site with a different consent.
Exceptions that can change the answer
- Listed buildings: fences and walls in the grounds may be covered by listed building rules.
- Conservation areas: extra restrictions can apply.
- Article 4 directions: a council may have removed permitted development rights for an area.
- Planning conditions: the original permission for your home or business may have removed the right to put up fencing.
- Flats and leasehold properties: permitted development is different and the freeholder may need to approve.
- Commercial and industrial land: different classes of development have different rights.
Other things to check
- Boundaries: make sure you know where the line is. Fencing the wrong side leads to disputes.
- Neighbours and rights of way: public paths and shared access need to be kept clear.
- Highway visibility: a tall fence near a junction or entrance can block sight lines.
- Utilities and drainage: post holes and trenches need to avoid services.
- Covenants: your deeds may restrict what you can build.
What to do next
- Decide the type and height of fence you want, and where it will go.
- Check for listing, conservation area status, planning conditions and any Article 4 direction.
- Ask your local planning authority for advice or apply for a lawful development certificate, which gives you written confirmation.
- If permission is needed, your installer can help with drawings and specifications.
Not sure which fence suits your site? Read our comparison of palisade, Paladin and weld mesh fencing, or see our security fencing service.
Frequently asked questions
How high can a fence be without planning permission?
In England, generally up to 2 metres, or 1 metre next to a highway used by vehicles, provided no exception such as a listed building, conservation area or planning condition applies.
Is the fence measured with the gravel board and trellis?
Councils measure the height of the structure from ground level at its highest point, so a gravel board or trellis on top counts towards the total.
Do commercial sites follow the same rules?
Not always. Business premises can have different permitted development rights and conditions, and tall security fencing often needs permission, so check with the local planning authority.