How Far Apart Should Fence Posts Be Spaced Out?

It may seem like a small detail, but the stability of a fence’s structure relies on a single question: How far apart should fence posts be?

Knowing how far apart fence posts should be is vital to the structure of a fence. Too close, and your budget can spin out of control. Too far apart, and your fence won't have enough support to stay standing. Use this guide to find the proper spacing for your posts and ensure that your fence stands the test of time.

Fence Post Spacing by Type

The proper spacing will depend on which type of fence posts you’re installing. There are various types of fences, so keep your chosen material in mind when determining your post spacing. 

Wooden Fence Post Spacing

The ideal spacing for wooden fence posts is 5 to 8 feet apart. If you’re installing premade fence panels, the distance between fence posts should match the panel width. Standard intervals include 6 and 8 feet.

You'll choose your spacing if you build a fence out of individual solid wood boards and posts. Don’t exceed 8 feet, and avoid spacing less than 5 feet apart to keep costs down. A wood fence contractor near you can find the right balance between fence stability and cost-effectiveness for your needs.

Chain-Link Fence Posts

Chain-link fence posts should be 4 to 10 feet apart. Fencing manufacturers usually recommend specific spacing depending on the fence height.

Posts for chain-link fences are smaller and sturdier than other types. Their size means you can dig smaller holes and space them further apart when installing a chain link fence. As a bonus, closer post spacing makes for a stronger fence. 

Metal Fence Posts

Metal fences offer an elegant look combined with durability. When installing an iron fence, aluminum fence, or steel fence, you should space posts no more than 8 feet apart. Proper spacing varies by panel width, but it’s best to keep it between 5 and 8 feet.

Vinyl Fence Posts

Vinyl is a common material for privacy fencing. While it costs more than other options, installing a vinyl fence requires less maintenance over time. It comes in premade panels that make spacing posts easy. Simply space posts by the panels' width, about 6 or 8 feet.

Wire Fence Posts

There are several types of wire fences that serve several purposes, ranging from holding livestock to providing extra security. Spacing for wire fence posts can be between 8 and 12 feet. It all depends on the type of fence you’re building and where, as terrain can impact how many posts you need. Keep in mind: Posts need to be close enough to keep tension in the wire.

Fence Posts Spacing for Panels vs. Pickets

The distances between fence posts can be similar whether you’re installing panels or pickets. With prefabricated panels, you don’t have much wiggle room with spacing. The length of the panels will dictate spacing between fence posts. So, spacing has to be precise to fit the panels (unless, of course, you cut them). Panel widths are typically 6 or 8 feet, which is similar to fence post spacing for vinyl and wooden fence posts. You have a little more leeway when installing wire or chain link fences, which range from 10 to 12 feet apart and 4 to 10 feet apart, respectively.

Why It’s Important to Space Your Fence Posts Properly

Proper spacing is critical to balancing fence security with installation costs. Tighter post spacing gives fences more structural integrity, protecting them from impact damage and pressure from people, animals, or weather. It also reduces future maintenance costs since repairs are less likely to be needed.

However, the tighter you space your posts, the more posts you'll need. Additional posts increase material and labor costs due to the time it takes to dig holes, pour concrete, and level posts. You’ll have to spend time calculating how many bags of concrete per fence post you need for the project. The right spacing ensures a strong enough fence without overextending your budget.

Tips for Installing a Sturdy Fence Post

Sturdy fence posts make a durable fence that won’t sag or lean. With the right tools, learning how to install a fence post is a fairly easy DIY project. Follow these tips for a successful DIY fence post installation.

• Check property lines to keep your fence in your own yard.

• Call 811 before you dig. This national hotline will help you avoid your property's underground power, water, and gas lines.

• Learn your local building codes on fencing.

• Sketch out your project, noting property lines, buried utilities, and other obstacles.

• Rent a power auger if you have a lot of holes to dig. Using a post hole digger can be tiring.

• Have a helper—fence installation is a job for at least two people.

• Follow all manufacturer guidelines for fencing or concrete mixtures.

• Dig holes deep enough to bury one-third of each post plus 6 inches of gravel. Set gate posts an extra 6 inches deep on top of that. Local regulations may vary.

• Use gravel fill in the bottom 6 inches of each post hole for proper drainage.

• Pour concrete into all end, corner, and gate post holes for a more stable fence.

• Prevent wood rot by sloping the tops of your concrete with a trowel, so water runs away from the posts.

• Focus on one post at a time to be sure they're level before the concrete sets.

• Build temporary braces to hold posts while the concrete sets. Skip this if using quick concrete.

While DIY fencing installation requires little equipment and experience, it’s a labor-intensive job with little room for error. To ensure the job is done right and avoid a lot of hassle and sweat, find the best fence contractor in your area to tackle installation for you.

Installing a Fence Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro

You could potentially save thousands of dollars by DIYing a fence installation. (Typically, a fence installation cost ranges from $1,775 to $4,570.) But it’s a best practice to hire a fencing pro. Installing a permanent fence is a complicated, laborious process. Also, you have to consider several logistical factors along the way, including avoiding underground utility lines, following building codes, and navigating property lines. A local fence installer can help ensure that your fence looks great and is up to code.

Nick P. Cellucci contributed to this piece.