How Deep Should Fence Posts Be in Clackamas & Marion County?

Clean Cut Fencing • Molalla, OR • CCB# 250058 • (503) 475-1929

Strong fences start with the right post depth and footing size. Here’s what we use around Molalla—and how we adjust for wind, slope, soil, and gate loads.

Typical post depths we use

• 4 ft fences: about 24 in depth

• 6 ft fences: about 30–36 in depth

• 8 ft & wind-exposed runs: deeper posts and larger footings

Why depth matters

• Wind leverage: Taller panels act like a sail. Deeper posts reduce movement and lean.

• Gate weight: Gates add off-center load. We reinforce, set deeper, and use hardware we can tune.

• Soil & drainage: Wet/loamy soils need more footing and good drainage so posts stay tight.

Variables we check on-site

• Slope & steps/racking (clean lines without stressing rails)

• Exposure (open fields vs. sheltered yards)

• Panel style (privacy vs. open view like hog panel)

• Local utilities & easements

get extra attention

• Reinforced or steel-frame gates sized for the opening

• Deeper, larger footings on gate posts

• Adjustable hinges and solid latches so the gate swings smooth and stays true

Pro tip: A slightly deeper post and properly sized footing cost less than fixing a leaning section later.

Signs your posts are too shallow

• Noticeable lean after wind or heavy rain

• Gate drags or won’t latch even after adjustment

• Rails/panels popping fasteners repeatedly

Ready for an estimate?

Send us your address and a couple photos. We’ll recommend the right depths and footing sizes for your fence height, layout, and exposure.

Request your estimate

Keywords we naturally cover: fence post depth, footing size, wind load, gates, Molalla, Clackamas County, Marion County.