How To Install Deer Fencing On Your Land

by Harvey Croft

17th January 24

Deer may be lovely to look at, but for a forester, farmer, gardener or horticulturist, they can cause havoc by destroying new plant growth and introducing disease to livestock or pets.

One of the most crucial measures to stop this from happening is deer fencing. It keeps unwelcome animals out and your land safe. So it’s important that it’s done right the first time.

In this guide, we’ll explain the best techniques for installing deer fencing including where to start your fence line and which materials to use.

Why is it important to install a deer fence?

People can install deer fences for a number of reasons, but mainly because of the damage deer can cause to new forest growth and crops, gardens or landscaping. Deer are voracious eaters and can quickly devastate a garden or orchard if not kept out.

Apart from destroying plants, they also carry diseases that can spread to other animals in the area. This is especially concerning for farmers who have livestock on their land.

Moreover, collisions with deer on roads can be dangerous for both the drivers and the deer. Installing a deer fence helps reduce the risk of these accidents.

What type of fencing should you use?

When it comes to choosing a type of deer fencing, there are several options available on the market. Some popular choices include:

• Woven wire fences
• Electric fences
• Polypropylene mesh fences

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a decision.

High-tensile wire fences are known for their strength and durability and are usually the most effective option for deer exclusion. Their height and small apertures help prevent deer from climbing the fence or causing damage and have the added benefits of functioning as security fences and keeping small animals out.

They can also be electrified if needed however, there are pros and cons when it comes to electric vs non-electric fences, for example, electric fences tend to come with increased maintenance, especially if livestock borders the fence. Polypropylene mesh fences tend to function only as a very temporary measure, not usually lasting very long nor withstanding much wear and tear against the elements, animals and people.

At County Fencing, we recommend our Tornado R12/182/15 galvanised steel high-tensile fencing specifically for deer.

8 steps to installing your deer fencing

Planning out your fence line is the first, and possibly most essential, step in constructing your deer fence.

Plan your fence line

There are a lot of factors to consider when planning your fence to ensure that the permanent fencing is installed in the proper location, height, and makes use of the appropriate materials for your farm or land’s present and future ambitions.

You should work with a professional to come up with some suitable deer fencing ideas.

Consider the following questions for yourself:

• How many pens or pastures will we require in the future?
• What kind of vehicles will we drive to every pen?
• What gate widths are necessary to provide tractors and other vehicles access to the pastures?
• Which utility lines should I take into consideration?
• Where and what kind of livestock or gardens will we have?
• How high of a fence is required to keep deer and other animals out?
• What type of fencing should I use? e.g barbed wire fencing, electric fencing, woven wire fencing etc.
• What fencing equipment and tools do I need?

Answering these questions will help you determine where and what kind of fence. To plan your fence line, getting a copy of your property survey is a great idea for some initial sketches. 

You can also use Google Maps’ satellite view to compare your terrain and land to the survey. H-braces, gates, and the fence itself (wire, boards, and posts) are the three main components of the fence. You ought to know for sure where you want the fence to be once you’ve answered the above questions.

Now that you have your survey, walk the fence line or use our fence line planning tool to get a sense of the precise terrain you will be working with.

Install end and corner posts

• Knock corner and end posts into the ground.
• Make sure the posts or ground stakes are straight and level.

Install intermediate fence posts

• Along the fence line, knock in your intermediate fence posts.
• As you insert the posts, make sure they are level and oriented correctly.

Attach fencing wire

• If you’re using high-tensile wire, staple it to the strainers and use tensioning tools to tighten it and clip it to size with fencing pliers.

Gate installation

• When installing a gate, make sure you adhere to the assembly and installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
• Make sure the gate is firmly fastened to the posts and properly aligned.

Finishing touches

• Look over the fence to make sure there are no loose parts or uneven areas.
• Make any required modifications to guarantee the fence is level and safe.

Maintenance

• Check the fence on a regular basis for indications of wear, damage, or loose parts.
• Carry out regular maintenance, such repairing damaged pieces or tightening wiring.

Looking for expert deer fencing solutions?

Installing deer fencing yourself can be a rewarding endeavour that improves your property’s appearance and usability, as well as ensuring the safety of your livestock and land.

In the UK, County Fencing is a prominent supplier of specialised fencing, fencing equipment, and fencing installation services. We will be pleased to offer advice on any fencing needs you may have, with an emphasis on specialised applications and the best fencing equipment available.

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

Contact us today for a free quote or make use of our free perimeter calculator!

How to install deer fencing FAQs