Deer Fence - high cost

This is an old version of the page

Date published: 1 March, 2017

Date superseded: 18 March, 2017

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.

This item can be used for all of Woodland Creation options.

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.

Fence Marking to Reduce Grouse Collisions

Technical Guide: Forest Fencing

Please make sure you abide by conditions set out in the Forestry Grant Scheme claim form and guidance.

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