How to Measure Your Yard for a New Fence Using Google Maps
How to Measure Your Yard for a New Fence Using Google Maps
Are you contemplating a new fence for your property? Whether you are looking to order materials or want to provide a fence contractor with the right details for an online estimate, you don't necessarily need to head outside with a tape measure just yet.
In just a few minutes, you can use Google Maps to determine your linear footage with surprising accuracy—usually within 24 inches of a physical measurement. Here is how to do it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Measuring
- Access Google Maps: Go to
maps.google.com - Find Your Property: Enter your home address in the search bar.
- Switch to Satellite View: Once your property appears, click the "Layers" icon in the bottom left corner and select Satellite. Zoom in as close as possible.
- Start Your Measurement: Right-click your mouse on the exact starting point of your planned fence. Select "Measure distance" from the menu.
- Map the Perimeter: Click on the next corner or end-point of your fence line. Continue clicking at every corner or gate location until you’ve traced the entire path.
- Get Your Total: Look at the "Measure distance" box at the bottom of your screen to see your Total distance in linear feet.
Pro-Tips for Accuracy
- Account for Roof Overhang: If your fence starts at the side of your house, remember that satellite images show your roofline. Start your point slightly "inside" the edge of the roof to ensure you are measuring from the actual wall.
- Note Your Gates: Google Maps won't distinguish between a panel and a gate. Note how many gates you need, their widths, and if they must meet specific pool code regulations.
- Existing Fence Removal: Does an old wood or chain-link fence need to be removed? Letting your contractor know the material helps make the "ballpark" quote much more accurate.
Important: When NOT to Use Google Maps
While digital measuring is a great starting point, it isn’t perfect for every property. You may need to grab the physical tape measure if:
- Heavy Tree Canopy: If your yard is heavily wooded or has large oak trees overhanging the fence line, the satellite may not be able to "see" the ground clearly enough for an accurate click.
- Significant Slopes: Google Maps measures "flat" distance. If your yard has a steep grade or significant elevation changes, the actual amount of fencing material needed may be higher than the 2D map suggests.
- New Construction: If your home was built very recently, the satellite imagery might still show an empty lot or a construction site, making it impossible to pin your house corners.
Note on Property Lines: Please remember that Google Maps is an estimation tool, not a legal survey. It does not accurately reflect your official property lines or easements. We always recommend referencing your certified survey to ensure your new fence is installed exactly where it belongs.
Next Steps
Once you have your linear footage, you can use this information in our wood, vinyl or aluminum calculators to see what a new Gifford Fence might cost.
While online tools are excellent for initial quotes, we always follow up with an in-person, on-site estimate. This allows us to confirm the numbers and account for any terrain changes or tree roots that might affect the installation.
