What type of fence is best for the visually impaired?

1. Choose a Fence With a Continuous Bottom Rail

A fence with a solid, uniform bottom rail provides a clear, uninterrupted line for a cane to detect. Models like the Forest Hill are ideal because they have a continuous bottom rail on both sides, without boards nailed directly to it. This reduces the chance of a cane getting caught or confused by uneven surfaces.

❌ Avoid semi-privacy fences that can snag a cane or create inconsistent tactile feedback.

2. Privacy Fences Work Well

Privacy fences are best for the visually impaired because they:

Provide a solid surface a cane can easily detect.
Prevent a cane from accidentally slipping through or getting tangled.

❌ Avoid chain link or iron fences, as these can allow a cane to pass through or catch awkwardly in the mesh or bars.

✅ Wood and vinyl privacy fences are the most effective and reliable choices for both safety and independence.

3. Use High-Contrast Colours

For many people with limited vision, contrast is more important than colour. Choosing fence colours with a strong contrast against their surroundings can make edges and boundaries easier to perceive.

Vinyl fences excel here — they come in bright, clean colours that contrast well with grass, trees, and pavement.

Choose a vinyl fence colour that contrasts with your surroundings.

4. Keep Safety Top of Mind

Standard fence heights of 5′ to 6′ are generally fine, but pay close attention to what’s at chest or head height:

Avoid hanging flower baskets or sharp decorative accessories that protrude from the fence.
Make sure gates and latches are easy to locate and operate by feel.

5. Align Fences With Walking Paths

Where possible, place fences parallel to foot paths or sidewalks. This allows them to serve as a navigational aid — a reliable boundary that individuals with vision loss can follow safely and confidently with a cane.