The short answer
A timber picket fence typically costs £40–£90 per metre supplied and fitted at around 0.9–1.2m tall. Painting adds £8–£15 per metre, and a matching gate usually costs £150–£400 fitted. Composite or vinyl picket fencing costs more, around £80–£150 per metre.
Picket fences are usually used at the front of a house, where they mark the boundary without blocking views. Because they're lower than back-garden fences and use less timber, they're relatively affordable.
What affects the price
Ready-made picket panels are cheapest. Fences built on site with individual pickets cost more but look more bespoke.
- Height – 0.9m and 1.2m are most common
- Material – treated softwood, hardwood, composite or vinyl
- Finish – natural, stained, or painted (often white)
- Pickets – pointed, round or decorative tops
- Gates – single pedestrian gates or wider driveway gates
- Ground – slopes and hard ground add time
Height and planning
In England, fences next to a road or footpath used by vehicles can usually be up to 1m without planning permission. Picket fences usually sit comfortably within that. Listed buildings, conservation areas and estates with covenants may have extra rules. See fence planning permission and our guide to front garden fencing.
Painted picket fences
White picket fences look crisp but need repainting every few years to stay that way. Pre-painted pickets save time at installation. If you'd rather avoid maintenance, consider a natural stain or a composite picket fence. See low-maintenance fencing.
Gates
A matching picket gate is usually needed for the path. Gate posts need to be stronger than ordinary fence posts, and good hinges and latches are worth paying for. Get quotes for garden gates alongside your fence.