Deer Fencing vs Stock Fencing: What’s the Difference?

by Harvey Croft

16th July 25

It’s easy to see why there’s often confusion between deer fencing and stock fencing. Both are forms of agricultural fencing designed to manage animals, secure boundaries, and protect valuable land, but they serve different purposes and require different specifications for effective use.

Choosing the right fence type matters, whether you are managing livestock, protecting commercial woodlands, or ensuring your land investment is well secured. The animals involved, your commercial objectives, terrain, and the long-term durability you need will all determine which fencing system is suitable for your job.

What is Stock Fencing?

Stock fencing is a type of agricultural fencing manufactured with a network of horizontal line wires and vertical wires, typically using mild steel or high tensile wire depending on the needs of the land and the livestock.

Key features of stock fencing:

• Designed specifically to contain livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle within safe boundaries
• Usually ranges between 80cm to 120cm in height, which is lower than deer fencing, making it easier to install and maintain across rolling farmland
• Supplied in various gauge and mesh patterns to match your livestock type and terrain
• Typically supported by timber or metal fence posts at regular intervals to keep the fence strained and secure
• Offered in a variety of roll sizes for flexibility across large or small paddocks

Stock fencing is commonly used for paddock management, rotational grazing systems, and securing agricultural boundaries in a cost-effective manner while ensuring livestock safety.

What is Deer Fencing?

Deer fencing is a taller, heavy-duty fencing system designed to exclude or contain deer effectively on commercial farms, estates, and forestry sites.

Key features of deer fencing:

• A deer fence height guide is typically 1.8m to 2.4m in height, preventing deer from jumping over
• Built using high tensile wire, which is essential for maintaining strength, durability, and stability across large areas
• Features closer vertical wires with narrow mesh for added impact resistance and to prevent smaller deer from pushing through
• Often supported by heavy-duty straining posts and robust corner bracing to handle the pressure from deer and the tension of long fencing runs
• Ideal for protecting commercial woodland, young saplings, and sensitive conservation sites from deer grazing and damage

Deer fencing requires careful specification and installation to remain effective under tension, particularly across uneven or hilly terrain where fencing needs to be carefully stretched and strained to avoid sagging.

Key Differences Between Deer Fencing and Stock Fencing

Below is a side-by-side comparison to clarify the main differences:

Feature	Stock Fencing	Deer Fencing
Typical Height	80cm – 120cm	180cm – 240cm
Animals Controlled	Livestock (sheep, goats, cattle)	Deer (Roe, Fallow, Red, Sika)
Wire Type	Mild steel or high tensile	High tensile only
Wire Configuration	Horizontal line wires, wider mesh	Narrower mesh, more vertical wires
Support	Standard posts, less bracing	Heavy-duty posts, strong bracing
Use Case	Agricultural boundaries, paddocks	Forestry, estates, crop protection
Security Level	Moderate	High

Both fencing types use line wires and require proper installation, but deer fencing demands a higher level of material specification and a greater focus on security due to the animals involved.

Deer Fencing Products

Which Is Suitable for Your Job?

Choosing between deer fencing and stock fencing depends on several key factors:

• Animal species and number: Whether you are managing sheep and cattle or excluding deer will define the fence height, mesh type, and wire gauge you require.
• Security level: Sites needing high security, such as wildlife conservation areas or commercial forestry, benefit from deer fencing.
• Terrain: Hilly terrain requires careful planning for straining and turns in fencing runs, while flat ground makes installations simpler.
• Protection priorities: If you are safeguarding crops or saplings, deer fencing is typically more suitable.
• Budget considerations: Stock fencing is generally more cost-effective and quicker to install, while deer fencing offers greater long-term effectiveness despite a higher upfront cost.
• Weight and roll selection: Heavier gauge wires and high tensile options may be required for larger animals or where additional strength is critical.

If in doubt, it is advisable to contact a fencing professional to discuss the precise requirements of your commercial site.

Installation Considerations for Deer and Stock Fencing

Proper installation is essential for ensuring your fencing remains effective over time.

• Both systems require the use of strainers, turning posts, and corner bracing, but this is especially critical for deer fencing due to its height and tension.
• High tensile wire requires correct tensioning with specialist equipment to prevent sagging and reduce maintenance needs.
• Installing deer fencing may require a dedicated team and machinery for driving in heavy-duty posts and safely handling the heavier rolls of fencing wire.
• Stock fencing installations are generally quicker and require less specialist handling, making them easier to implement over larger agricultural areas.
• Where fencing crosses uneven ground, the wire needs to be properly stretched and supported to maintain a consistent height and prevent gaps that animals can exploit.
  

Common Use Cases for Each Fence Type

Stock Fencing:

• Containing sheep or cattle on large livestock farms
• Securing agricultural land boundaries
• Dividing grazing areas for paddock rotation

Deer Fencing:

• Protecting commercial forestry and new saplings
• Securing conservation areas to encourage biodiversity
• Containing deer on commercial deer farms safely

Why Fence Type Matters for Long-Term Effectiveness

Selecting the correct fencing system is not just about immediate containment; it is about ensuring long-term effectiveness, animal welfare, and return on investment.

• A fence that is too low or weak will not contain or exclude animals effectively, leading to potential damage to land or crops.
• Using the correct gauge, wire type, and post spacing enhances durability and reduces the need for frequent repairs.
• High-quality, well-installed fences will typically require less maintenance over their lifespan, saving money in the long term.
• Investing in the right fencing system will deliver security, protect commercial interests, and support effective land management strategies.

County Fencing’s Expert Solutions for Agricultural and Wildlife Fencing

At County Fencing, we understand the challenges faced by large organisations managing livestock, protecting commercial forestry, or securing conservation areas. Our team specialises in delivering tailored fencing installation solutions for controlling deer, rabbits, foxes, badgers, and other animals.
We offer:

• Expert advice on material specifications, mesh patterns, and gauge selection to match your site requirements
• Professional installation services using specialist equipment to ensure fencing is correctly strained and supported
• Experience in handling challenging environments and large-scale fencing installations for estates, farms, and conservation sites
• A focus on long-lasting, effective fencing that delivers value for your investment

If you are planning your next fencing project, do not hesitate to contact County Fencing for a consultation.

Closing Thoughts

Stock fencing and deer fencing serve distinct roles in agricultural and wildlife management. Choosing the right fencing system depends on the animals you need to contain or exclude, your landscape, and your long-term management goals.

For large organisations seeking effective, durable fencing solutions, consulting with professionals ensures the right choice for your site and guarantees a fencing system that will remain effective for years to come.

We can advise on the application of deer fencing, fox fencing, badger fencing and more.

Need help finding the right fencing? Contact us today for a free quote or use our perimeter calculator to estimate your needs!

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