GardenCalcs.uk
Fence Panel Calculator — How Many Fence Panels
Calculate how many fence panels you need for your boundary.
Total length of the boundary run to be fenced, in metres
Standard UK panel is 1.83 m (6 ft); pick 1.5 m / 1.2 m or enter a custom width
Cost of one panel — used to estimate total panel spend (posts and fixings not included)
Adds one extra panel as an allowance for breakages or cuts (optional)
One extra post is added for each direction change in the run
Each gate shortens the panelled run by ~1 m and adds 2 gate posts
How We Calculate This
Panels = Fence Length ÷ Panel Width, rounded up to the next whole panel (you cannot buy part of a rigid panel). The base post count is Panels + 1 — one post at each end plus one between every panel.
The result then adjusts for your layout: each gate opening shortens the run by about 1 m and adds 2 gate posts, and each corner you specify adds 1 corner post. Ticking the spare-panel option adds a single panel for breakages or cuts. So the posts figure can legitimately exceed the simple Panels + 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard UK fence panels are 1.83m (6ft) wide. Some manufacturers also offer 1.5m and 1.2m panels.
You need one more post than the number of panels. For example, 5 panels need 6 posts.
Fences up to 2m high generally do not need planning permission unless adjacent to a highway (1m limit). Always check local regulations.
Standard UK fence panels come in 0.9m (3ft), 1.2m (4ft), 1.5m (5ft), and 1.8m (6ft) heights. Heights over 2m may need planning permission.
Closeboard fencing is stronger, lasts longer, and can follow sloping ground. Lap panels are cheaper and quicker to install but less durable in exposed locations.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates based on standard gardening guidelines. Results may vary with soil conditions, climate, and plant varieties.