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When your rolls of silt fence join together, you’ll want to overlap them to make sure they’re still as effective at keeping water out without requiring fastening together. Overlap two sections of the silt fencing so that two sheets of fabric cover the span of two posts. If you want to fasten them together, you can staple them or use a zip tie, depending on whether your posts are metal or wood. 

Pickets should sit at least 2 inches off the ground to encourage groundwater to flow underneath. Pickets can sit as much as 6 inches off the ground, but setting it any higher could let pets in or out of your yard unintentionally. These are not to be confused with the fence posts anchored underground with soil or concrete footing.

Fence pickets typically face out (away from your home or the garden that you're enclosing). Both the rails and pickets sit on the outside of a fence so that anyone passing by can see the finished side. Not only does the look increase your curb appeal, but it's also the neighborly thing to do when placing a barrier between two properties, even when you're installing a privacy fence.

Whether you need a permit to build or install a fence depends on several factors, including your location, the fence's height, its placement in your yard, and the materials used. In many cities and highly populated areas, a permit is required, especially for fences taller than 6 feet. Conversely, rural areas may have fewer restrictions. Typically, backyard privacy fences 6 feet or shorter do not require a permit, while front yard fences often have a lower height limit, sometimes as low as 3.5 feet. There can also be exceptions for properties in mixed residential-commercial zones. It's best to check with your local building inspection or zoning department to understand the specific requirements, height restrictions, and location rules for your area. A professional fence installer can help you navigate this process and often secure the necessary permits for you, though this may extend the project timeline.