Get matched with top fencing pros in Hickory Corners, MI

The recommended height for a garden fence depends on its primary purpose. For pest control, the necessary height varies by animal. To keep out small pests like rabbits, a fence should be at least two to three feet tall. If you live in an area with deer, you will need a much taller fence, at least five feet high, to prevent them from jumping over. If the main goal is privacy, the fence should be at least seven feet tall. For purely decorative fences, the height is a matter of personal preference.

If the fence is on one neighbor’s property, that person is responsible for repairs, regardless of who benefits from the fence more. The other neighbor must keep trees and other obstacles from crossing the property line and affecting the fence. If the fence is directly on the property line, though, who owns a shared fence? Many states have laws that address this issue. Typically, the two property owners would share responsibilities and costs for fence maintenance and repair. You may need a property line survey to precisely determine ownership and responsibility.

Electric fences use very little energy and shouldn’t cause any surprises on your next energy bill; You may only notice an extra couple of dollars on the bill. While electric fences don’t consume much energy, they still need it. If you have a power outage after a storm, your electric fence will likely stop working.

It is almost always necessary to hire a land surveyor near you to ensure your fence sits on the right side of the property line. Mistaking the shape of your property can lead to fines and costly changes if you have to move or adjust the privacy fence—not to mention some surly looks from your neighbor. We recommend jumpstarting your fence planning in the spring to ensure there is plenty of time to map out your plan before construction season.