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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.

You should stain both sides of your fence to get the full benefits. Fences often fall along property lines, so you may want to save a buck by leaving your neighbor’s side in the dust. If you do that, all you get is a slightly better view. Moisture and UV rays can still sneak in through the side that’s unpainted or worn down and damage your fence. Rot and rust will spread, even if you can’t see it from your side of the lawn.

A fence post set in concrete lasts anywhere from five to over 25 years, depending on how well the concrete was applied and the fence post’s material. Untreated wood posts in concrete could last less than 10 years, but a durable, treated wood set in properly applied concrete could last a few decades. However, all fence posts will wear out eventually, so expect to need to replace your fence post every five to 15 years.

Posts for a horizontal fence should be no more than 6 feet apart. Wood pickets are not as strong when mounted horizontally as when mounted vertically. As such, the fence panels on a horizontal fence can’t cover the same span between posts as a vertical fence can. If you install the posts further apart on a horizontal fence, the fence will lose stability, making the boards more likely to sag.