Deer fence - high cost (FGS)

Deer Fence - high cost

Date published: 18 March, 2017

For recent changes to this guidance, please see the bottom of the page.

This item is only eligible within areas identified as ‘higher rate deer fence’ as found in the Forestry Grant Scheme 2014-2020 Target Areas folder on the Forestry Commission Scotland Map Viewer and is subject to approval by your local Conservancy office.

This item can be used for all Woodland Creation options. Justification of costs may be required.

You must erect a fence which will be fit for purpose and will form a deer-proof barrier.

The appropriateness of any new deer fencing should be considered in the context of the Joint Agency Fencing Guidance.

For deer fencing:

the minimum fence height for protection against roe deer is 1.5 metres*
the minimum fence height for protection against red, sika or fallow deer is 1.8 metres*
you must use woven high tensile, mild steel or welded rectangular mesh, the netting can vary from half to full length. Combination fences are not acceptable

Your choice of mesh size should be governed by the following:

	Max width between vertical on mesh	Max heights between horizontals on mesh
Red/sika	30cm	22cm
Fallow	20cm	20cm
Roe	15cm	20cm

all fencing woodwork must be treated
you must install gates to allow for responsible access, management activities, or husbandry operations
any water gates must be designed to keep watercourses stock / deer-proof, whatever the level of the water

* For areas in excess of five hectares or along roadsides at least 1.8 metres in height is recommended for fallow, roe or muntjac and two metres for red and sika.

This capital payment does not cover the cost of any gates (except water gates, flake gates, and sections of rail fence for access). Gates are covered as a separate capital item.

Your local capercaillie / black grouse project officer or RSPB advisory officer can provide advice on the siting of fences to reduce potential problems and can advise on the most suitable fence marking.

We require this item to be in place, meeting minimum specifications and in good order for a period of at least five years following the date you received your payment.