Fence Calculator
Calculate fence materials including posts, rails, pickets, and hardware. Works for wood, vinyl, and chain link fences with customizable post spacing.
Professional Fence Materials Calculator
Industry-standard material estimator • 2025
Basic Measurements
Open-ended fences require stronger terminal posts
Fence Type
Post spacing: 8 feet on center
Gates
Double Driveway Gates
Site Conditions
Ready to Calculate
Fill in your fence details, then click Calculate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the standard spacing for fence posts?
Standard fence post spacing is 8 feet on-center for most residential fences per IRC guidelines. Privacy fences may use 6-foot spacing for added strength. High-wind areas or tall fences (over 6 feet) require 6-foot spacing. Corner and gate posts need concrete footings regardless of soil type.
How deep should fence posts be buried?
Fence posts should be buried one-third of total post length (1/3 rule). A 6-foot fence requires 8-9 foot posts buried 2-3 feet deep. Frost line requirements vary by region: northern climates may require 42-48 inches depth, southern regions 18-24 inches per local codes.
How many pickets do I need per section?
For 8-foot sections with 5.5-inch pickets and 1-inch gaps, you need approximately 15 pickets. For 3.5-inch pickets with 2-inch gaps, you need 17-18 pickets. Tight-board fences (no gaps) require 17-18 boards per 8-foot section depending on board width.
How much concrete do I need per fence post?
Standard 4×4 posts in 8-inch diameter holes require approximately 0.15 cubic feet (1.5 bags) of concrete per post. 6×6 posts in 12-inch holes need 0.35 cubic feet (3-4 bags) per post. Corner and gate posts should use 50% more concrete for stability.
Industry Standards Referenced
International Residential Code (IRC) R404.1 - Footings(IRC 2021)
View StandardGoverns post footing requirements for residential fencing. Specifies minimum depth, concrete encasement, and structural support standards to prevent frost heaving and ensure stability.
Key Requirements:
- •Posts must be set minimum 6 inches below local frost depth
- •Post footings must extend minimum 12 inches below undisturbed ground
- •Concrete encasement required for structural support
- •Footings must bear on undisturbed soil or engineered fill
IRC Section P2801 - Swimming Pool Barriers(IRC P2801)
View StandardSpecific requirements for pool fencing to prevent child access. Mandates height, spacing, gate hardware, and non-climbable zone specifications. Pool fences ALWAYS require permits and inspections.
Key Requirements:
- •Minimum height: 48 inches measured from grade
- •Maximum opening: 4 inches (prevents child passage)
- •Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward from pool
- •Gate latch minimum 54 inches from ground (child-proof)
- •Non-climbable zone: No horizontal rails within 45 inches of top
- •All pool fences require building permits and final inspection
ASTM F567 - Chain Link Fence Fabric(ASTM F567)
View StandardStandards for chain link fence materials including wire gauge, mesh size, coating specifications, and tensile strength. Ensures durability and longevity for residential and commercial installations.
Key Requirements:
- •Residential grade: 11-gauge wire minimum, 2-inch mesh
- •Commercial grade: 9-gauge wire, 2-inch mesh
- •Coating options: Galvanized (zinc) or vinyl-coated
- •Minimum tensile strength specifications for wire
ASTM F1083 - Pipe, Steel, Hot-Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded(ASTM F1083)
View StandardSpecifications for galvanized steel fence posts and framework. Defines pipe grades, wall thickness, outside diameter, and coating requirements for corrosion resistance.
Key Requirements:
- •Schedule 40 residential: 16-gauge wall (0.065 inch), 2.0 inch OD line posts
- •Commercial grade: All posts 2.5-3 inch OD, heavier gauge
- •Terminal posts (corners, gates): Heavier duty than line posts
- •Hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication for rust protection
Local Setback and Height Regulations(Varies by Municipality)
Property line setbacks and maximum height restrictions vary by local zoning. Most jurisdictions distinguish between front yard, side yard, and backyard fencing with different rules for each.
Key Requirements:
- •Front yard: Typically 3-4 feet maximum height
- •Side/back yard: Typically 6 feet maximum height
- •Property line setback: Usually 0-6 inches from property line
- •Corner lots: Special visibility triangle restrictions (3 ft max)
- •Always verify with local building department before installation
American Fence Association (AFA) Guidelines(Industry Best Practices)
View StandardProfessional installation standards and best practices for fence contractors. Provides guidance on post spacing, materials selection, and construction methods.
Key Requirements:
- •Post spacing: 6-8 feet for wood, 10 feet maximum for chain link
- •One-third rule: Bury 1/3 of post length for stability
- •Concrete cure time: Minimum 48 hours before attaching rails
- •Grade boards recommended for uneven terrain
Standards Disclaimer: Standards and codes are subject to periodic updates. Always verify current requirements with local building authorities and professional engineers before beginning construction. Links provided are for reference only.
Want to Learn More?
IRC post spacing standards, concrete depth requirements (1/3 rule), and material calculations by fence type.
Read the Fence Post Spacing GuideHow to Use This Calculator
- Enter fence length: Input the total linear feet of fence needed.
- Choose fence height: Select from standard heights (4 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft).
- Select post spacing: Typical spacing is 6-8 feet per IRC standards.
- Review materials: See posts, rails, pickets, and hardware needed.
Fence Material Standards
Posts should be set 2-3 feet deep in concrete per IRC R703. Post spacing typically ranges from 6-8 feet on center. Use 4×4 posts for 6-foot fences.