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The distance between fence posts is guided by the terrain you’re installing them on, the purpose of the fence, and the material it’s made of. For the average wooden garden fence, posts should be about 6 to 8 inches apart. But if you’re going with a mesh, wire, lattice, or chain link fence, you could set the fence posts anywhere from 6 to 25 feet apart. 

Knowing how close to the property line you can build a fence is an important planning step in your fence installation project. In many U.S. states, you are allowed to build a fence directly on the property line as long as your neighbor signs off on the plan. But check with your state government because some states and municipalities require a couple of inches before your property line.

How long a fence should last depends on the type of fence, but a common split wooden fence should last seven to 10 years. Chain link can last much longer, with wrought iron and concrete lasting decades. If you're interested in your fence lasting as long as possible—and it's made of wood—consider sealing and treating the wood so it can stand up to the environment. Wood is the only fence type that requires this, as concrete and metal are almost always waterproof.

You may wonder if you need a permit to build a fence at your home. It varies by where you live. Some cities and counties have laws that require you to obtain a permit to construct your fence. Needing a permit may depend on the size of the fence and the materials you’re using. Check with your local building inspection department or zoning department to determine whether you need a permit. Having to take the steps to obtain a permit can increase the timeline for how long it takes to build a fence.