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Regular lawn care keeps snakes away because it eliminates common hiding places. You can deter snakes by trimming grass, shrubs, and trees and removing weeds from your lawn and gardens. Clear away leaves and other debris that could serve as a potential snake habitat. You can also seal entry points around building perimeters and install metal snake fencing.

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.

A horizontal fence is typically more expensive to build than a vertical fence, often costing between 10% and 20% more. The higher cost is due to the need for a higher grade of lumber and more posts to prevent the boards from sagging, which increases both material and labor expenses. Despite the higher price, horizontal fences tend to be more durable and offer a more distinct, modern look compared to the more common vertical picket style. However, they may not be the best option for privacy, as there can be slight gaps between the horizontal rails.

The best way to protect your pets from coyotes is to ensure they are always supervised when outside, especially during dawn and dusk when coyotes are the most active. When walking your dog, keep it on a short leash and carry something noisy you can use to haze any coyotes you may encounter.