But when it comes to the UK laws around garden fences, it can become complicated.
From understanding who owns it, what height they should be and if you need permission to paint them from neighbours – the list goes on.
With this in mind, garden experts have revealed the answers to some of the most important fence laws. Let’s take a look.
What’s the law on parking in front of driveways?
How high can a fence be between neighbours in the UK?
For UK homes, usually the fencing in your back garden should be a maximum height of 2 metres (about 6.5 feet) and the front garden of your property should be 1 metre (3.2 feet), according to Lawsons.
The fencing experts add: “If you wish to erect a fence that is higher than 2 metres or a fence will be higher than 1 metre and next to a highway then you will need to apply for planning permission from your local council.
“Moreover, it’s important to remember that different local councils will have different restrictions regarding fencing and properties, so it is best practice to always check with your local authority for rules and regulations on the matter.”
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Which neighbour owns the fence?
Additionally, you might be wondering who takes ownership of garden fences in the UK.
Senior brand manager, Jimmy Englezos from Ronseal explained the significance of finding out where the boundary lies between your homes and who owns each fence.
“If you’re unsure, a good place to start is checking the deeds you received when you bought the property – you’ll often see a ‘T’ indicating which fence side is your responsibility to maintain,” he said.
“If the land registry states that you are the sole owner of the fence, then you’re free to make any alterations you like, including painting it.
What side of the fence am I responsible for in the UK?
“If your property is listed or on designated land, check with your local authorities first in case any restrictions apply.”
Do you need permission from a neighbour to paint the fence?
Jimmy advised: “If it’s your neighbour who owns the fence you’re not legally entitled to make any changes such as painting or repairing without obtaining permission from them first, even if it’s only your side that you’re altering.
“If you’d like to paint your side of the fence, either to help protect it, or to change the colour then it’s best to have a conversation with your neighbour first and explain what you’d like to do. If they say no, try suggesting alternatives and find a compromising solution.”
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Do you need permission from a neighbour to decorate the fence?
“If it’s your neighbour who owns the fence, you must seek permission from them before making any changes to your property’s side of the fence, this includes hanging fairy lights, drilling holes or growing vertical plants,” states Jimmy from Ronseal.
“Similarly, if you want to lean something against the fence or grow plants next to it that may make contact with the fence, you have to seek permission from the owners first as it could cause damage.
“If you own the fence, you can decorate the space however you like, as long as it doesn’t place your neighbour or their property at risk.”