How to measure
- Measure the straight run from one end point to the other.
- Choose the maximum spacing allowed by your fence plan or system.
- Review the actual spacing and add corner, end, gate, or brace posts separately when your layout needs them.
Fence Post Calculator
Calculate fence spaces, post count, and actual spacing for a straight run.
How this fence post estimate works
Use this tool for a straight fence run when you know the maximum spacing you want between posts. It shows both the whole post count and the actual spacing after the run is divided into equal spaces.
How the estimate works
Divide run length by maximum spacing and round up to whole spaces. Add one post to get the straight-run post count, then divide the run by the spaces for actual spacing.
Worked example
A 100 ft run at an 8 ft maximum gives 13 spaces and 14 posts. Actual spacing is about 7.69 ft.
Before you buy
Use the result as the straight-run starting point. Add separate corner, end, gate, brace, and terminal posts, and check the post dimensions before ordering concrete.
Package and supplier details
Fence systems may have their own spacing, corner, gate, grade, wind, soil, or code requirements. The maximum interval you enter should come from your plan or product information.
Assumptions
- The run is straight and divided into equal spaces.
- The first and last posts are included in the count.
- Additional structural or gate posts are not added automatically.
Limitations
This does not design a fence system or account for gates, corners, grade changes, wind, soil, or local code.
Questions about fence post
Why is actual spacing smaller than my maximum?
The run usually cannot be divided into the maximum interval exactly. Rounding up the number of spaces keeps every interval within the limit.
Does the count include gate posts?
No. The result is for a straight run. Add gate, corner, end, and brace posts for the final layout.
Can I use this for a curved fence?
Use separate straight approximations only as an early estimate. A curved or changing-grade layout needs a more detailed plan.
Related guides
Short, practical help for the next step in this project.