Fence Post Spacing Calculator
Evenly spaced posts make a fence stronger and straighter. Enter your fence run length and the maximum spacing you want to get the post count and the exact on-center layout.
Wood privacy fences usually space posts 6–8 ft apart; chain-link can stretch to 10 ft. Corners and gates always get their own posts.
How the fence post spacing calculator works
Dividing the run length by your maximum spacing and rounding up gives the number of spans; adding one gives the post count, since every span needs a post at each end. The calculator then re-divides the length by the actual span count so every gap is identical — a 100 ft run at 8 ft maximum becomes 14 posts at exactly 7 ft 8 in on-center.
Measure each straight run separately: corners break the run, and each run gets its own even layout. Buy one or two extra posts beyond the count for mistakes and future repairs.
spans = ⌈length ÷ max⌉ · posts = spans + 1 · on-center = length ÷ spans
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Fence post spacing calculator FAQ
How far apart should fence posts be?
Most wood fences use 6–8 ft spacing; chain-link posts often go 8–10 ft apart. Wider spacing saves posts but needs stronger rails — follow your fence type’s guidance.
What does “on-center” spacing mean?
Distance measured from the center of one post to the center of the next. Mark these center points along the run when you lay out the fence line.
Do corners need extra posts?
Yes — every corner and gate opening gets its own post, and each straight run between them is spaced independently. Calculate each run separately.
How many posts do I need for 100 feet of fence?
At 8 ft maximum spacing: 14 posts at about 7 ft 8 in on-center. Enter your exact run length above for the precise layout.
Should I include the gate in the run length?
No — measure runs gate-post to gate-post. Gates need their own sturdy posts, usually set deeper and in more concrete than line posts.