Beautiful American Home

Before Fence Installation: Boundaries, Utilities and Gates

By Patriot Home Service. Published: . Updated: . Published by Patriot Home Service.

Organize the site questions that should be resolved before placing fence posts.

Organize the site questions that should be resolved before placing fence posts.

Confirm the legal location

An old fence, hedge or mowing line is not proof of a property boundary. Review survey information and obtain clarification when needed. Easements can restrict where a fence is placed or require access through it. Zoning rules, HOA requirements and corner visibility can also affect height and location; check the rules for the actual property.

Find what is underground

Arrange utility location before digging and ask about privately owned lines that may not be covered by a standard locate. Irrigation, lighting, septic components and other owner-installed systems can be present. Marking does not eliminate the need to follow safe excavation practices. Soil and terrain influence post design and installation rather than merely the fence's visual alignment.

Plan the gates as working equipment

Gate width, swing and slope affect access for people, equipment and maintenance. Plan where snow, leaves or soil could obstruct operation. Pool barriers need specific gate and latch arrangements under local requirements. Drainage routes should remain functional, and changes along steep slopes may require a different design from a level-yard fence.

A practical homeowner record

Safety and limits

Do not dig before utility-location requirements are met. A general fence design is not a pool-safety design or a substitute for verified boundary information.

Sources & further reading

These references provide supporting guidance and further reading. Follow current local requirements and the instructions for your exact products; some publications address particular materials, products or code editions.

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