Which of the following heights of fence deters only casual trespassers?

Question

Options

• A8 feet
• B3 to 4 feet
• C2 to 2.5 feet
• D6 to 7 feet

• A
  7% (2)
• B
  89% (25)
• D
  4% (1)

Explanation

A fence of 3 to 4 feet (B) is the standard height associated with deterring only casual trespassers - those who might wander in accidentally or opportunistically - because it signals a boundary without presenting a serious physical barrier. A 2 to 2.5 foot (C) fence is essentially decorative and deters no one meaningfully. A 6 to 7 foot (D) fence deters determined trespassers who are making a deliberate effort, while an 8 foot (A) fence is considered a high-security barrier that deters even highly motivated intruders and is typically topped with barbed wire or other deterrents.

Memory tip: Think in tiers - 2 ft = decoration, 3–4 ft = casual deterrence, 6–7 ft = determined deterrence, 8 ft = high security. You can remember "3–4 feet stops the careless, not the criminal."

No community discussion yet for this question.