Abiding by Regulations

• One of the most important aspects of fence building is making sure it is done in accordance with building and zoning laws. Before building begins, a building permit must be applied for and obtained from a town or city hall. According to www.great-backyard-landscaping-ideas.com, these permits will often indicate any building restrictions such as a maximum height. Determining the precise boundaries of your properties is also an important step. According to the same source, stakes in the corner of plots often indicate boundaries, but it is often beneficial to have a local government employee officially verify where your property ends. It is also a good idea to build a few inches inside of your property line. This can help prevent having to take down the fence or having to reposition it in the future because of a zoning violation.
  
  

Measuring, Positioning and Setting Posts

• When constructing a wood fence, a lot of time and precision must go into measuring the locations of posts. According to DoItYourself.com, a measuring tape and stakes can be used to mark of the precise locations of posts, which should between 6 feet and 8 feet apart. When setting posts, the same sources recommends burying one-third of the total length of each post. This will help the posts bear weight and withstand wind. One technique for secure post-anchoring is digging post holes that are somewhat larger at the bottom than at the top. This area can then be filled with gravel or stones to create a firm foundation for the post that is then put in the hole.
  
  

Protecting the Wood

• To help prevent water damage and mold, the tops of fence posts can be angled, rounded, or capped with a plastic or epoxy material. Also, mounds can be built around the bases of posts to help prevent water from accumulating. According to www.great-backyard-landscaping-ideas.com, before the fence is assembled, all wood to be used should be pre-painted, stained, or otherwise treated. This will prevent having to bend and reach awkward angles once the fence is together (although some touch-ups may need to be made). Also, the bottom rails of wood fences should be kept at least 2 inches off the ground to help prevent wood decay and protect wood from lawn mowers.