Fence post spacing — 8 feet on-center maximum, measured center to center
Fence posts sit a maximum of 8 ft on-center because rails come in 8-ft lengths — and that span is measured center-to-center, not gap-to-gap. Sections = length ÷ 8 ft, rounded up; corner and end posts are heavier than line posts.
What this diagram shows
Elevation of a short fence run with an end/corner post and two lighter line posts carrying two rails per section. A dimension shows the posts set 8 feet on-center, the maximum, because rails come in 8-foot lengths. The spacing is measured center to center, not gap to gap. The number of sections equals the fence length divided by 8 feet, rounded up — for example 50 feet divided by 8 is 6.25, which rounds up to 7 sections. Corner and end posts are heavier than the line posts between them.
Fence Calculator
Instantly calculate fence posts, rails, pickets, concrete & cost for wood, vinyl & chain link. IRC post-spacing standards. Free, no signup required.
