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Calculate fence materials — posts, rails, palings, and hardware. Supports timber paling, Colorbond, and pool fencing with Australian standard spacing.
Fence height (m)
Standard residential fence height is 1.8m
Paling width (mm)
Standard paling is 100mm wide
Paling gap (mm)
0mm = privacy fence, 10-25mm = semi-private with airflow
Number of rails
3 rails recommended for 1.8m+ fences
Include gate
Add a standard single gate
Result
Quick reference — common fence lengths
| Scenario | Length |
|---|---|
| Single side boundary (standard block) | 30m |
| Rear boundary | 15m |
| Front fence | 15m |
| Full perimeter (standard block 450m²) | 85m |
| Pool fence (average pool) | 20m |
Click any row to load it into the calculator.
Start by measuring the total length of fence you need. Divide the length by your post spacing (standard is 2.4m in Australia) to find the number of sections, then add 1 for the end post. Each section needs 2 or 3 horizontal rails depending on fence height.
For timber paling fences, divide the fence length by the paling width plus gap to find the total number of palings. A standard 100mm paling with no gap gives 10 palings per metre. Always order 5-10% extra to account for waste, defects, and offcuts.
Timber paling is the most common residential fence in Australia. Treated pine palings are affordable and easy to install. Standard height is 1.8m for rear and side boundaries.
Colorbond steel fencing is durable, low-maintenance, and fire-resistant. It comes in a range of colours and is popular in bushfire-prone areas. Standard panels are 2.38m wide.
Pool fencing must comply with Australian Standard AS 1926.1. The minimum height is 1.2m, gates must be self-closing and self-latching, and there must be no climbable objects within 900mm of the fence.
Fence height regulations
Most Australian councils allow 1.8m for rear and side boundary fences and 1.2m for front fences without a permit. Fences above these heights or in heritage areas may require council approval. Always check with your local council before building.
Good neighbour fencing
Under the Dividing Fences Act, the cost of a dividing fence is shared 50/50 between neighbours. You must give your neighbour written notice before starting work. If you want a more expensive fence than a "sufficient" standard, you pay the difference.
Pool fencing requirements
Pool fencing must comply with AS 1926.1. Minimum height 1.2m. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, opening away from the pool area. No climbable objects (trees, furniture, pot plants) within 900mm of the fence. Regular inspections required in most states.
Post depth
Posts should be set minimum 600mm into the ground — the rule of thumb is 1/3 of the total post length below ground. Use rapid-set concrete for a firm hold. In sandy or soft soil, go deeper (750mm+) for stability.
The formulas
Posts:
ceil(length / spacing) + 1
Palings:
ceil(length / ((width + gap) / 1000))
Rails:
sections x rails_per_section
Concrete:
1 x 20kg bag per post
Useful resources
For pool fencing standards, refer to Standards Australia (AS 1926.1) ↗. For dividing fence obligations, check your state's Dividing Fences Act or contact your local council.