Fence Post Spacing (How Far Apart, Depth & Size)
Part of Decks, Fences & Roofing
Quick answer
Space fence posts 6–8 ft apart on center — 8 ft is standard for wood, 6 ft for heavier or windy runs. Set each post at least one-third of its total length deep and always below the local frost line. Post count = (length ÷ spacing, rounded up) + 1, plus 2 posts per gate and one per corner.
Post spacing balances cost against strength. Wider spacing uses fewer posts but sags more and isn't as sturdy; closer spacing is stronger and stiffer. Most residential fences land on 8 ft because rails come in 8 ft boards, so one board spans one bay.
Spacing, size and depth
| Fence | Spacing | Post size | Hole depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 ft picket | 6–8 ft | 4×4 | 24 in |
| 6 ft privacy | 6–8 ft | 4×4 | 24–36 in |
| 7–8 ft / windy | 6 ft | 4×4 or 6×6 | 36–48 in |
| Gate & corner posts | — | 6×6 | +6–12 in deeper |
Rules of thumb
- Bury at least 1/3 of the post: a 6 ft fence usually uses 8 ft posts set ~2 ft deep.
- Always go below the frost line — 12 in in the south up to 48 in+ in cold climates — so frost heave can't lift posts.
- Dig holes about 3× the post width (a 12 in hole for a 4×4).
- Gate, corner and end posts carry more load: size up and set them deeper with more concrete.
Enter your length and spacing in the fence calculator for the exact post count and post length, and see the how-much-concrete-per-fence-post guide to size the bags for each hole.
FAQs
How far apart should fence posts be?
6–8 feet on center. Eight feet is standard for wood fences because rails come in 8 ft lengths; drop to 6 ft for taller fences, heavier panels, or windy and exposed sites.
How deep should a fence post hole be?
At least one-third of the post's total length and below your frost line — commonly 24 in for a 6 ft fence, and 36–48 in in cold climates or for tall and gate posts.