About Fenceline Handbook
An independent, plain-English guide to the fences, gates and hedges around UK gardens.
Fenceline Handbook exists because most fencing information online is written to sell a product or a service, and much of the rest repeats rules that are only partly true. We wanted one place that explains garden fencing properly: the materials, the practical jobs and the rules, with honest notes on where the answer depends on your circumstances.
What we cover
Our guides cover choosing a fence, planning permission and height limits, boundary ownership and disputes, posts and gravel boards, installation, timber treatment, storm repairs, hedges, gates and security, pets and wildlife, and rough costs. We write for the whole of the UK and point out where Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland differ from England.
What we do not do
- We do not sell fencing, take commissions or recommend particular installers or shops.
- We carry no advertising and no affiliate links. See our advertising and affiliate disclosures.
- We do not give individual legal, planning or surveying advice. Our disclaimer explains the limits.
Who writes it
The guides are written by Gareth Owen, a garden and home-improvement writer. He is not a tradesperson or a lawyer, and we do not pretend otherwise. Instead, every guide is built on primary sources and checked under our fact-checking process.
How to reach us
We welcome corrections and suggestions by email. Details are on our contact page.