Your garden fencing needs to be the ideal height for your particular requirements. To choose the right fence height, first decide what the fence’s main purpose will be (for example, to increase privacy/security levels or stop your dog invading neighbours’ gardens). Then, with the help of this fencing height guide, consider how tall the fence needs to be to fulfil that purpose.
When transforming your Devon garden, it’s easy to overlook the importance of fencing and fence heights. After all, fences aren’t as attention-grabbing as water features or patios, say. But they’re actually a crucial element of garden design and landscaping. High-end fencing systems clearly define boundaries, help to keep property, people and pets safe, provide stylish backdrops, and offer protection against noise and extreme weather.
According to Ideal Home magazine, if your garden is well looked after and boasts sheds and premium fencing, it can increase your property’s value by about 20%. That really brings home the importance of choosing a first-class, tailored garden fencing installation service like ours. Why not browse some of our stunning Devon fencing projects in our gallery?

Popular Sizes for Garden Fencing
Fencing is measured in feet. Standard fence panels are six feet wide, while common fence heights range from three to six feet (i.e. from the height of an average three-year-old child to slightly taller than an average man). Custom sizes are available too.
Most small fences are installed in front gardens; decorative features such as curved panels make homes more inviting. Back garden security fences are the most imposing. Many homeowners choose a consistent fence height; however, graduated fencing makes a wonderful feature in Devon’s sloping gardens.
Fence posts must be two feet taller than panels, as they need to be buried two feet deep to support the fence.
The Best Fence Height for Your Needs
When designing and installing bespoke Devon garden fencing, we pay close attention to customers’ aims for their new fences. People often tell us they want fencing that makes them feel less overlooked, gives them peace of mind when pets are outside, or makes their home more secure.
Let’s explore those key purposes and their most appropriate fence heights:
1. Increasing Your Privacy
Choose a fence that’s five or six feet tall with classic closeboard timber panels (which have no gaps between slats) to shield your garden from your neighbours’ view. You’ll get to fully immerse yourself in your favourite outdoor activities, from sunbathing to swimming.
As privacy fencing is relatively tall, it can transform your garden into a sanctuary (especially if you soften the panels’ appearance with lattice tops and climbing plants) or extra room.
For even more privacy, use Venetian screens to create cosy areas for reading, painting or drinks at dusk.
2. Preventing Your Pets from Escaping
Do you have a Border Collie, German Shepherd or other large, energetic dog? Many such pets possess ‘incredible jumping abilities’, remarks the World Animal Foundation. You need tall fences in order to create enclosed, pet-friendly spaces.
Fencing for athletic canines should be six feet high. As your dog gets older and less active, you could reduce the height to four feet.
Composite fencing works well in gardens used by pets because it’s particularly robust and splinter-free.
3. Boosting Your Security
Composite garden fencing also appeals to customers who want security without compromising on style. It’s hard-wearing yet chic and available in many colours. Pressure-treated timber is durable too and adds character.
For optimum security (if you live in a busy area, say), we suggest a fence height of between six and eight feet. This will create a strong barrier and deter intruders. As an extra security measure, train thorny plants to grow along the top of fencing.


Garden Fencing—The Legal Landscape
With regards to fences and the law, homeowners don’t typically need planning permission to erect garden fencing, but there are exceptions.
You must apply for planning permission if:
Your chosen back garden fence height exceeds two metres (approximately six feet six inches).
Your chosen front garden fence height exceeds one metre (approximately three feet three inches) and you live by a road.
Owners of listed buildings should consult their local council about additional restrictions.
High-Quality Garden Fencing Installation in Devon
Whether you need a more private, pet-friendly or secure outdoor space, you can rely on our comprehensive Devon garden fencing service. Our talented, experienced team will take you from initial ideas to completion, providing you with a tailored fencing solution that’s perfect for your needs.
For first-class garden fencing installation, call Jacksons Landscape Designs in Newton Abbot today on 01626 332533.