Guides · 3 min
Fences, walls and gates
The usual height limit is 2 metres, and 1 metre next to the road.
The simple limits
Putting up or altering a fence, wall or gate is often permitted development if it is not more than 2 metres tall, or not more than 1 metre where it is next to a highway used by cars. Taller than that, you need an application.
A listed building, and some conservation areas or Article 4 directions, take that right away. Demolishing a wall in a conservation area can need consent even when a new fence would be small.
Boundaries are not the same as planning
The planning rule does not tell you who owns the fence. That is a deeds question. Do not build your neighbour’s wall higher and assume the height rule makes it yours.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.
Questions
Can I put a 2 metre fence on the front?
If the front is next to a road, the usual limit is 1 metre. Side and back gardens are where 2 metres is the common figure.
Does the height include the trellis?
Measure the whole thing. A 2 metre fence plus a tall trellis can tip you into an application.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.