Fencing and gates in Handsworth

Fencing and gates in Handsworth: approvals and local details

Before replacing a boundary fence in Handsworth, confirm who owns it — your deeds often show this — and agree the line with your neighbour. Planning permission from Birmingham City Council is only needed above 2 m, or above 1 m beside a road.

Fences next to a road or the footpath beside it are limited to 1 m without planning permission.
Closeboard copes with wind better than lightweight lap panels in exposed Handsworth gardens.
Your title plan may show who is responsible for each boundary.

Postcode district: B21
Planning and building control: Birmingham City Council
From our West Bromwich base: 2 miles

Options to consider in Handsworth

Side gates and driveway gates

Side gates add security to the path at the side of the house, and driveway gates in timber or metal close off the front. Gates need strong posts, hinges and latches, and wide gates need drop bolts or a centre stop. Driveway gates shouldn't open outwards over the pavement, so they're hung to open inwards.

Concrete posts and gravel boards

Slotted concrete posts hold panels in place without rotting, and concrete gravel boards along the bottom keep timber clear of wet soil. Concrete posts are heavier to install and more noticeable than timber. Many people put them in when replacing panel fences, because new panels can then be slotted in later without disturbing the posts.

How much should you budget in Handsworth?

Expect to budget between £60 and £230 per linear metre in Handsworth. 1.8 m closeboard fence with concrete posts and gravel boards, old fence removed: typically £95–£135 per linear metre.

Guide prices for fencing and gates
Option	Guide price	Good to know
Panel fencing with concrete posts	£60 – £95 per linear metre	1.8 m panels, quick to fit
Closeboard with concrete posts	£90 – £135 per linear metre	Stronger, better in exposed gardens
Slatted or composite fencing	£140 – £230 per linear metre	Contemporary look, less upkeep

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. Your fixed price for the agreed specification follows a free survey at your Handsworth address.

Fencing and gates in Handsworth: common questions

Concrete or timber posts: which is better?

Concrete posts don't rot, so they usually outlast timber posts, and new panels can be slotted in later without replacing them. Timber posts look softer and suit closeboard and some gate posts, but they eventually rot at ground level. In exposed gardens, concrete posts with closeboard or heavy panels are the most robust choice.

How do I book a survey in Handsworth?

Send the form on this page, use the guide-price tool or call 0800 088 6248 free. We'll ask a few questions about your fence or gate and arrange a time to visit.

What guarantee comes with a new fence?

The panels, posts and treated timber carry their manufacturers' guarantees, and the terms for your fence are set out in your quote. Treated timber guarantees often depend on how cuts are treated and how the timber is used, so it's worth reading those conditions. Keep your quote and paperwork in case you need them later.

Does Birmingham City Council need to approve my fence or gate?

Not for a fence or gate up to 2 m high, or 1 m beside a road used by vehicles. Above those heights, or around a listed building, check with Birmingham City Council.

Nearby places we cover

More services in Handsworth

Fence down after a storm? Call 0800 088 6248 and we'll come and measure your boundaries in Handsworth.