To measure for a fence, walk the planned fence line, measure each straight section with a measuring wheel or long tape, add the sections together and note where every gate and corner goes. Round up, and treat your total as an estimate until a professional measures on site.
1. Find your property lines first
Your plat or survey is the best reference. Many homeowners set fences a short distance inside the line. Online maps and aerial photos are approximate and do not establish legal property boundaries.
2. Sketch the fence line
Draw your house, driveway, patio and trees, then the fence line. Our Property Fence Planner lets you upload a photo or site plan, set the scale and draw the line right on top of it.
3. Measure each straight run
Measure from corner to corner. A measuring wheel is easiest for long runs. Write down each section's length.
4. Mark gates and corners
Note every gate, its width and which way it should swing. Corners and gates need stronger posts, so they affect both cost and layout.
5. Add it up and round up
Add all sections for total linear footage. Rounding up a few feet gives you a safer budget number.
Call 811 before anyone digs
North Carolina 811 marks public utility lines for free before digging. A professional installer requests locates before setting posts.
When you are ready, send your sketch with an estimate request and we will confirm every measurement on site.
By the Fences & Firepits team · Reviewed by Ron Memallaj, owner
