Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Planning
To make a fence plan for your acreage, draw a scale map of your land on graph paper.
Design a complete perimeter fence with entrance gates that can be easily closed and locked
so loose horses are kept off your property and your horses are kept on your property. Con-
sider a buffer zone (double fence) for perimeter fences to keep your horses away from
neighboring property, buildings, or animals. Properly planned, a buffer zone can be used as
a riding trail.
A property boundary line should be determined exactly by survey. Check your local and
state fence laws to determine whether your perimeter fence should be set on the property
line and the installation and maintenance costs should be shared by you and your neigh-
bor(s), or whether your fence should be set inside the property line on your land and paid
for and maintained entirely by you. This is an important distinction that should be made
before you dig your first posthole. Errors can be costly and disputes can get ugly.
Draw on the map all permanent structures and objects, including things such as trees,
water, large rocks, and buildings. Draw current and proposed traffic patterns. Locate places
where gateways would be convenient and decide if they should be man gates, horse gates,
or equipment gates. Then draw in fence lines on your map, including cross-fencing that you
may plan for the future.
How much fence do you need?
