How Much Fence Do I Need for My Yard?
To figure out how much fence you need, add up the length of every side you plan to fence. For a rectangular backyard, that is usually the two side lines plus the back line, because the house covers the front. A 60 × 100 foot backyard fenced on three sides needs about 100 + 100 + 60 = 260 linear feet.
Quick Calculator
Posts
36
Concrete
72
Pickets
832
Rails
99
Est. Cost
$3,900–$6,500
Detailed Answer
Rectangle yard, fenced on 4 sides: 2 × (length + width) Rectangle backyard, house covers 1 side: 2 × depth + width
Examples: - 50 × 80 ft backyard (3 sides): 80 + 80 + 50 = 210 ft - 60 × 100 ft backyard (3 sides): 260 ft - 100 × 100 ft yard (4 sides): 400 ft
By lot size (typical three-sided estimate): - 1/4 acre: about 300 ft - 1/2 acre: about 420 ft - 1 acre: about 600 ft
Walk the fence line with a measuring wheel or a 100-foot tape for the real number, and subtract gate openings only when counting panels or pickets.
Recommended Materials
Pressure-Treated Fence Post 4×4×8
Ground-contact rated, ideal for all fence types.
$12 – $18
Cedar Dog-Ear Picket 1×6×6
Naturally rot-resistant, smooth on one side.
$3 – $6
Quikrete 60 lb Fast-Setting Concrete
Sets in 20-40 minutes. No mixing required.
$5 – $7
Post Hole Digger – Fiberglass Handle
Heavy-duty clamshell digger for clean holes.
$35 – $55
Simpson Strong-Tie Fence Bracket
Galvanized L-bracket for rail-to-post connections.
$4 – $8
Decorative Post Cap 4×4
Copper-top cap, fits standard 4×4 posts.
$5 – $12