It is illegal to construct a high perimeter wall fence

By Joyce Nyakato
 
Fences have existed since time immemorial in a wide range of types, styles and materials.  Even in a typical traditional set up, you are more likely to find a home with an enclosed shrub as a fence.
 
The ministry of lands recognises three types of fences to be used in homes: hedges, wire fences and perimeter walls but each of these fence types have specific measurements they should not exceed.
 
According to Alex Muhumuza an architect, fences are used for so many different reasons which range from security to avoiding trespassers on private property.
 
“There are different fence types which can be used depending on the reason why one is putting up the fence in the first place,” he says.

While the perimeter wall can work for optimum privacy, the hedges can do well in marking a boundary of a plot. Experts can explain the most appropriate fence type and fence style for you home.
 
According to physical planning standards from the Ministry of Lands, housing and urban development plots may be enclosed by hedges, wire fences and perimeter walls. However, a number of restrictions apply.
 
Wire fences

Whether the traditional galvanised or vinyl coated type, the wires are an economical way to provide years of maintenance-free security and access control.

These fences are extremely versatile; they can be made in a variety of heights, and can handle anything from a simple boundary marker for a homeowner to perimeter security.
 
They can be topped with barb or razor wire for maximum security. And, with the addition of a hedge, any chain link fence can become a privacy fence.
 
When you use galvanised screws and fittings to prevent metallic corrosion, it deals well with the nasty-looking rust stains on the posts and poles. National physical standards dictate that the wire fences must be of chain link supplemented by planting where possible.
 
Wall fences

Perimeter walls are the most desired type of fence because of the security and privacy they offer. Despite being the most expensive type of fence many people prefer to go for it.
 
However most home owners have been misguided on what to consider when putting up a wall fence according to Arthur Abigaba, an urban officer with the lands ministry. “Sometimes people construct wall fences which are too high and are not acceptable,” he says.
 
According to the standards, in high residential areas, solid walls must not exceed 1.5metres high. And these walls must be supplemented by plants or metal railings.
 
Where a metal grill is to be used, wall fences should be 2.7metres high or equal to the wall plate height of the development. Along the road boundaries, fences or walls must be set back 1 metre inside the plot to leave space for the infrastructure such as water supply.
 
More commonly, metal is being used to supplement the wall. Aluminum has recently evolved to become an economical alternative to the more expensive wrought iron fences that are built above the wall fences.
 
Aluminum fences are set in concrete when constructed. Each post is held with a bracket that has been secured in concrete to ensure stability. A decorative aluminum fence will provide years of maintenance-free security and access control.
 
These fences will withstand years of harsh weather, and the only suggested maintenance is a good washing once a year.
 
Hedge a hedge

Comprises of a line of closely spaced shrubs and tree species that mark the boundary of an area.  A number of tree types are used as hedges. If a hedge is well maintained, it gives the home a more natural and polished look.

However, If hedges are not maintained or only trimmed repeatedly, they tend to look untidy.
 
Bamboo Reeds

This type of fencing basically uses papyrus reeds. It is a perfect way to give your home a tropical feel. It is ideal for camouflaging chain link fences. Materials such as papyrus reeds, grass can be used only if the local authorities approve of it.

Though they are cheap, they are very prone to fire which is why a local authority must approve its construction.