How Much Does Wildlife Fencing Cost?

by Harvey Croft

17th April 25

Wildlife fencing plays a crucial role in protecting animals and infrastructure across development projects, construction sites, rail networks, utility pipelines, and even power stations. Whether it’s to prevent wildlife from entering hazardous areas or to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, having the right fencing in place is a necessity—not a luxury.

But what exactly does wildlife fencing cost? The answer depends on a range of factors including materials, installation, specifications, and long-term maintenance. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, helping you find the most suitable fencing solution for your project.

What Is Wildlife Fencing and Why Is It Necessary?

Wildlife friendly fencing is a physical barrier designed to prevent wildlife from entering areas where their presence could pose a danger to themselves or disrupt human activity. It’s often used to protect both animals and people, particularly in protected species mitigation projects where conservation efforts must meet strict environmental regulations.

Key Applications:

• Development and construction sites
• Rail networks and roads
• Agricultural land and utility pipelines
• Power stations and industrial areas
• Areas near waterways and natural habitats

Benefits of Wildlife Fencing:

• Minimises road accidents involving animals
• Safeguards species in sensitive environments
• Reduces damage to infrastructure
• Ensures compliance with environmental laws
• Supports long-term conservation and land-use goals

Factors That Influence Wildlife Fencing Costs

Understanding what drives wildlife fencing cost is essential for budgeting effectively. From material selection to the complexity of installation, every decision impacts the overall price.

Material Choices and Their Price Ranges

• Wire Mesh Fencing: A durable, cost-effective option commonly used in general fencing solutions. Often galvanised to withstand weather conditions and provide long-term protection.
• Electric Fencing: An ideal solution for deterring livestock or larger animals. It includes an ongoing power supply cost and regular maintenance.
• Solid Panel Fencing: Offers high security and is typically used in locations requiring robust wildlife protection, such as near railways or power stations.

Length and Height Requirements

• Taller fences (e.g., deer fencing) cost more due to increased material use.
• Larger projects like highways or rail lines need extended fencing lengths, benefiting from bulk rates but requiring greater investment.

Installation Complexity

• Uneven terrain or soft soil increases labour and equipment requirements.
• Fencing may need to account for animals burrowing underneath or climbing, requiring special designs like ground skirts or angle brackets.

Environmental Considerations

• Projects must adhere to environmental regulations, especially in protected species mitigation projects.
• Some habitats require custom designs or specific materials to suit the local environment.

Additional Features and Specifications

• Gates and access points for maintenance teams
• Reinforcement for high-impact zones
• Anti-burrowing and anti-climbing features tailored to local wildlife behaviours

Wildlife Fencing Costs: A Breakdown by Type

Let’s explore how different fencing types compare in terms of cost, application, and durability.

Standard Wire Mesh Wildlife Fencing

• Usage: Commonly used to prevent wildlife from accessing construction sites and development projects.
• Installation: Cost-effective, with relatively straightforward installation and minimal long-term upkeep.

Electric Wildlife Fencing

• Usage: Effective for livestock and larger wildlife control in rural areas.
• Considerations: Requires regular maintenance and monitoring. Best for areas needing temporary or adjustable solutions.

Deer Fencing

• Usage: Deer fencing is essential for agricultural protection and roadway safety.
• Installation: Must be tall and sturdy, with potential for reinforced lower sections to deter digging or pushing.

Amphibian & Reptile Fencing

• Usage: Vital for reptile fencing and protected species mitigation projects.
• Design: Lightweight and species-specific. May include guide channels and pitfall traps as part of survey and relocation protocols.

Heavy-Duty Wildlife Fencing for Rail & Road Networks

• Usage: Found along rail networks, motorways, and busy transport corridors.
• Durability: Built to last and withstand impact. Includes features for burrowing and climbing deterrence.

Beaver Fencing

• Usage: Protects infrastructure near waterways where beavers may cause flooding or structural damage.
• Materials: Heavy-duty mesh or metal barriers designed to resist gnawing and burrowing underneath. Often custom-designed based on local environment and water flow.

The final cost will also depend on whether you choose professional installation or opt for a DIY approach. Use County Fencing’s perimeter calculator to get an instant wildlife fencing quote.

Wildlife Fencing Installation Costs

Installation costs can vary depending on:

• Labour and specialist equipment
• Urban vs. rural location (urban areas may have restricted access or higher wage costs)
• Complexity due to terrain or specific project requirements

In some cases, particularly for smaller projects or agricultural installations, organisations may opt to install fencing in-house. However, for compliance-heavy environments or where protected species are involved, hiring a knowledgeable team ensures better outcomes and adherence to legal requirements.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs & Long-Term Investment

While initial costs are important, so is the long-term investment. A poorly maintained fence can lead to gaps in protection, expensive repairs, or even legal penalties in protected species mitigation projects.

Estimated Annual Maintenance Costs:

• Wire mesh fencing: £0.50–£2 per metre/year
• Electric fencing: £1–£5 per metre/year (includes equipment checks and power supply maintenance)
• Rail and road fencing: £2–£6 per metre/year (due to higher usage and exposure)

Regular inspections and prompt repairs ensure your fencing remains durable, compliant, and cost-effective over time.

Wildlife Fencing Grants and Funding Support

When budgeting for wildlife fencing, it’s worth exploring available fencing grants or funding schemes that may help offset costs—especially for conservation-based projects or protected species mitigation projects. Various government bodies, environmental agencies, and non-profit organisations offer financial assistance to support fencing solutions that align with biodiversity, infrastructure protection, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Grants are often available for wildlife fencing around development projects, utility pipelines, and rail networks—particularly where fencing is required to protect species under legal protection or reduce environmental impact. Funding may also be accessible for landowners working on habitat conservation, or for infrastructure projects near power stations and waterways that require specialised fencing for species like beavers or reptiles.

Choosing the Right Wildlife Fencing Solution for Your Project

Every project is unique. Choosing the most suitable fencing option means considering:

• Target species (e.g., deer, reptiles, amphibians, beavers)
• Terrain and site access
• Required lifespan of the fence (temporary vs. permanent)
• Regulatory and environmental impact

Environmental impact assessments can guide these decisions, especially in ecologically sensitive zones. Partnering with a knowledgeable team like County Fencing helps ensure your solution is effective, fully covered, and aligned with legal obligations.

Next Steps

Wildlife fencing costs depend on many variables, from materials and installation to ongoing maintenance and project location. With so many fencing solutions available—from reptile fencing to heavy-duty mesh for railways—choosing the right system is about more than just price. It’s about achieving reliable protection for both wildlife and human infrastructure.

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.

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

FAQs