A wild boar fence in the garden is the most effective method to keep wild boar permanently away from your property. But which type of fence is best suited? How high and how deep must the fence be? And are there sensible alternatives for those who don't want to install a massive fence? In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about the perfect wild boar fence for your garden — from planning to installation.
Why a wild boar fence in the garden is so important
Wild boar damage in the garden is not only annoying, but can also cause considerable costs. A single visit from a wild boar sounder can devastate lawns, flower beds and even terraces. The animals systematically root through the soil in search of grubs, worms and roots, leaving a picture of destruction behind.
A professional wild boar fence offers several advantages here:
- Permanent protection: Unlike scent deterrents or noise, a stable fence doesn't lose its effectiveness.
- Reliable barrier: A correctly installed fence is almost impossible for wild boar to overcome.
- Protection from other wildlife: The fence also keeps deer, badgers and other unwanted garden visitors at bay.
- Increase in property value: A high-quality fence can increase the value of your property.
If you have already had experience with wild boar in your garden, we also recommend our main article on the subject Repelling wild boar.
Which fence types are suitable as wild boar fences in the garden?
Not every fence is equally effective at keeping wild boar away. Here we compare the most common options:
Wire mesh fence (Double-rod mat fence)
The double-rod mat fence is the classic among wild boar fences for garden areas. It consists of welded steel wires that form a stable grid.
- Advantages: Very robust, long-lasting, visually appealing, available in various heights and colors, easy assembly with standard posts.
- Disadvantages: Relatively high acquisition costs, professional installation recommended, not completely wild boar-proof without anti-dig protection.
- Recommended specification: At least 6/5/6 mm wire thickness, mesh width maximum 50 x 200 mm, height at least 1.20 m.
Knot mesh fence (Forestry fence)
The knot mesh fence is commonly used in forestry and agriculture and is a cost-effective option for larger properties.
- Advantages: Inexpensive to purchase, quick installation over long distances, flexible on uneven terrain.
- Disadvantages: Visually less appealing, can be bent by wild boar if wire thickness is too low, shorter lifespan than wire mesh fences.
- Recommended specification: At least 2.5 mm wire thickness, knot spacing finer at the bottom, height 1.20 to 1.50 m.
Electric fence (Pasture fence)
Electric fences are particularly popular in agriculture and offer effective wild boar deterrence.
- Advantages: Wild boar quickly learn to avoid the fence (learning effect), relatively inexpensive, flexible installation, also mobile deployable.
- Disadvantages: Regular maintenance required (battery/mains device, vegetation removal), not always visually suitable in residential areas, ineffective in case of power outage, legal regulations must be observed.
- Recommended specification: At least 3 strands, lowest strand at 20 cm height, voltage at least 4,000 volts, pasture fencer with sufficient power.
Chain-link fence
The ordinary chain-link fence is only conditionally suitable as a sole wild boar fence in the garden.
- Advantages: Inexpensive, widely available, easy installation.
- Disadvantages: Not stable enough for adult wild boar, easily bent or broken through, does not provide reliable protection.
- Conclusion: Only usable in combination with an electric fence for wild boar protection.
The right height and depth for the wild boar fence
When planning a wild boar fence for your garden, two dimensions are crucial: the height above ground and the anchoring in the ground.
Fence height
Wild boar are not good jumpers. Unlike deer, which effortlessly jump over 1.80 m high fences, wild boar tend to dig under or break through fences. A height of 1.20 to 1.50 meters is usually sufficient. If you also want to keep deer out, you should choose at least 1.80 m.
Anti-dig protection
This is the most important aspect of a wild boar fence and is unfortunately often neglected. With their powerful snouts and sharp tusks, wild boar can root remarkably deep. There are two proven methods of anti-dig protection:
- Burying the fence: Bury the fence 30 to 50 cm deep in the ground. Labor-intensive, but very effective.
- L-shaped apron fence: At the bottom of the fence, lay an approximately 50 cm wide wire mesh horizontally outward (toward the wild boar side) and secure it with ground anchors. Easier to install and equally effective.
Alternatives to the classic wild boar fence
Not every property owner wants or can install a complete fence around their property. Whether due to cost, neighborhood regulations or because the property is too large. For these cases, there are effective alternatives.
Scent deterrent barriers
Special scent deterrent barriers utilize the extremely sensitive sense of smell of wild boar. They create an invisible protective zone that the animals instinctively avoid.
Product recommendation: Anti-wild boar barrier
The Anti-wild boar barrier from HexGuard is the ideal alternative or supplement to the classic wild boar fence in the garden. The product creates a scent-based barrier that wild boar reliably avoid. The application is simple: distribute the product along the property boundary and renew it regularly. Particularly suitable for open properties, forest edge locations and as a supplement to existing fences.
Partial fencing of at-risk areas
If complete fencing is not possible, you can specifically protect particularly vulnerable areas. Vegetable beds, fruit tree meadows or the well-maintained ornamental lawn can be secured with smaller fence sections or raised beds.
Wild boar fence in the garden: Installation step by step
To install a double-rod mat fence for wild boar protection, proceed as follows:
- Planning and surveying: Measure the perimeter of the area to be protected. Plan the course of the fence and the position of gates and passages. Check local building regulations and boundary distances.
- Calculate materials: Standard practice is to set posts at 2.50 m intervals. Calculate the number of fence panels, posts, fastening clamps and gates.
- Set foundations: Excavate foundation holes at least 60 cm deep (frost-proof foundation). Set the posts in concrete. Alternatively, you can use driving sleeves or ground screws — but these are less stable.
- Install anti-dig protection: Before mounting the fence panels, install anti-dig protection (bury or L-apron).
- Mount fence panels: Attach the double-rod mats with the appropriate clamps to the posts. Ensure a gap-free connection at ground level.
- Install gate: Install at least one sturdy gate for access. The gate should have the same stability as the fence and close flush with the ground.
- Final check: Inspect the entire fence for weak points, gaps at ground level and loose connections.
Costs of a wild boar fence for the garden
Costs vary greatly depending on the fence type, property size and whether you carry out the installation yourself or hire a specialist:
- Knot mesh fence: approximately 5–10 EUR per running meter (materials), plus posts and installation.
- Double-rod mat fence: approximately 25–50 EUR per running meter (materials), plus foundations and installation.
- Electric fence: approximately 3–8 EUR per running meter, plus fencer (from approximately 80 EUR).
- Professional installation: Budget an additional 20–40 EUR per running meter for proper installation.
For an average property with 60 m of fence length, total costs for a double-rod mat fence with installation range between 2,700 and 5,400 EUR. A scent deterrent barrier such as the Anti-wild boar barrier from HexGuard is a significantly more cost-effective immediate solution.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is a normal garden fence sufficient as a wild boar fence?
In most cases, no. Ordinary garden fences such as hunter's fences, picket fences or simple chain-link fences are not stable enough to withstand an adult wild boar. A male boar can weigh over 100 kg and exerts enormous force. Only massive wire mesh fences, reinforced knot mesh fences or electric fences provide adequate protection.
How deep must a wild boar fence be buried in the ground?
Ideally 30 to 50 cm burial depth. Alternatively, you can install an L-shaped anti-dig protection, where a 50 cm wide wire mesh is laid horizontally outward on the wild boar side. This method is easier to install and effectively prevents wild boar from rooting under the fence.
Do I need a building permit for a wild boar fence?
This depends on your federal state and municipality. In principle, fences up to a certain height (usually 1.20 to 1.80 m) do not require a permit. However, some municipalities have design regulations that prescribe material, color and height. In rural areas (outside closed municipalities), stricter regulations may apply. Check with your local building authority.
Can I combine a wild boar fence with other deterrent measures?
Absolutely, and we recommend it. The combination of a stable fence and a scent deterrent barrier provides the best possible protection. Additionally, motion-sensor lighting and removal of food sources can strengthen the deterrent. The more senses (smell, sight, hearing) are engaged, the less likely wild boar will visit your garden.
