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A setback is an area of space between your fence and the property line, meaning you build a fence a few inches before your neighbor’s property begins. You can build your fence on a setback—some communities recommend this—but this means a sliver of your property will be on your neighbor’s side of your fence.

You’ll need to bury the garden fence about 1 foot underground. It’s tempting to save on materials by burying the fence just a couple of inches, but if you do so, determined pests will still be able to dig under the fence and access your plants. Burying your garden fence deep into the soil is an important step that allows you to attach a wire barrier to the fencing. 

Burrowing animals (like voles, moles, rabbits, and gophers) can’t dig or chew through this wiring, meaning that you’ll be keeping your prized petunias or your robust veggie garden from being eaten.

Check with your local laws, which might state that you have to build a fence around your plunge pool. If you have children or pets or live in an area with abundant wildlife, you should consider building a fence around your pool for safety. Pools can present a drowning hazard, and while plunge pools are not very deep, younger children can get hurt if they try to dive into them. A fence can help protect your family and visitors from injury.

Yes, installing a picket fence is a manageable DIY project for homeowners with basic tools and some patience. The process involves marking the fence line, digging post holes, setting the posts, and attaching horizontal rails and pickets. However, precision is key to ensure the fence is straight and sturdy, which can be challenging for beginners. If the fence line is long, the ground is uneven, or you’re working with more complex materials like metal or composite, hiring a pro may be a better option.