Answering the question of how to protect gardens, poultry, and small livestock from deer and raccoons, these electric fence options offer practical, humane deterrents. The top picks are tailored for homeowners, homesteaders, and small-to-medium farms seeking portable, easy-to-install solutions. Below, you’ll find five strong choices, each with a clear best-use scenario and a practical caution. A quick buying guide and FAQ follow to help you compare features, setup, and suitability at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Fence Netting, 35.4″ H x 164′ L (OULUU) | Rotational grazing, small farms, backyards | Durable, portable netting with 9 strands and triple-braided wire |
| Gallagher Garden & Backyard Protection Kit | Garden beds, raised beds, deer and pets | All-in-one kit with solar energizer for easy setup |
| Gallagher Smart Fence 2 | Temporary paddocks, shows, markets | Four-wire, built-in posts; quick deployment |
| PPOLB Electric Fence Netting, 47.2″ H x 164′ L | Protection from large predators, farm yards | Taller netting for bigger animals with sturdy construction |
| Premier 1 PermaNet 68″H x 82’L | Orchards, gardens, deer and wildlife control | Tallest net with added stability features |
Introduction: The options below are selected for their balance of portability, ease of installation, and predator-deterrence effectiveness. Each product is described with who it’s best for, what makes it stand out, and a practical limitation to consider. Use the Buying Guide and FAQ to compare dimensions, installation needs, and how they fit your property size and animal concerns.
OULUU Electric Fence Netting For Deer And Raccoons
The OULUU netting is designed as a portable, multi-species barrier with predator deterrence in mind. Best for gardeners and smallholders who need a lightweight, moveable fence that can be relocated for rotational grazing or seasonal shifts. It uses nine horizontal strands (eight conductive) and fiberglass posts for stability, with triple-braided stainless steel wire for durability. The setup is straightforward: unroll, stake, and connect. A practical limitation is that it does not include a charger in the package, so plan for a compatible energizer if not using a solar option. Best for: backyard gardens and small-acre rotations where deer and raccoon pressure fluctuates seasonally.
Gallagher Garden & Backyard Protection Kit
This all-in-one kit is ideal for gardeners seeking a turnkey solution. It includes a solar energizer, posts, wire, and a ground rod, providing a 200-foot perimeter that deters deer, raccoons, and other animals. It’s best for those who want year-round protection with minimal tools and no external power source beyond sunlight. Best for: sunlit gardens, raised beds, and home orchards where a self-contained, easy setup is valued. Caution: performance depends on adequate sun exposure and proper grounding; cloudy days can reduce effectiveness.
Gallagher Smart Fence 2
The Smart Fence 2 is a portable, four-wire system designed for quick deployment and flexible fencing needs. It includes ten pre-installed posts and a total length up to 328 feet, making it suitable for spring pastures, temporary paddocks, and emergency repairs. It’s best for: farmers or homesteaders who need rapid setup and the ability to adapt fencing boundaries without heavy machinery. Caution: Charger and grounding rod are not included, so plan to source these separately for full operation.
PPOLB Electric Fence Netting, 47.2″ H x 164′ L
PPOLB’s taller netting is crafted to deter larger predators, with 11 horizontal strands (9 conductive) and built-in glass-fiber rods for strength. The mesh is reinforced every 12.5-13.1 feet with triple-braided stainless steel wire. This option is best for households worried about larger threats such as coyotes and stray dogs in addition to raccoons. It’s easy to install—unroll, place, and energize. Limitation: taller nets may require longer energizer runs or adjustments for wind exposure in open spaces.
Premier 1 PermaNet 68” x 82’ For Deer & Livestock
The PermaNet is among the tallest nets offered, standing at 68 inches high. It is designed to repel deer, bears, and various predators when properly energized. It’s particularly suitable for orchards, gardens, and vineyard borders where tall barrier protection is beneficial. Best for: high deer pressure areas and long-term perimeter protection. Caution: Energizer must be properly matched to the netting; continuous current energizers are not recommended with this type of fence for safety and effectiveness.
Electric Fence Net, 42.5″ H x 164′ L
This 42.5-inch netting offers a balance between deterrence and portability for larger animals. The fiberglass posts are integrated with stainless steel mesh at regular intervals to provide durable support. It’s best for: gardens and small farms needing a reliable, easy-to-transport barrier. Limitation: not the tallest option for the most aggressive deer populations; consider higher netting if deer pressure is extreme.
Electric Fencing Net, 35.4″ H x 164′ L (M MINGYA)
The M Mingya option uses 9 horizontal strands (8 conductive) with insulated lower lines to reduce ground leakage and keep livestock contained. It integrates fiberglass posts and stainless steel mesh for solid support. Best for: households needing a compact, easy-to-assemble fencing solution that can adapt to grazing needs. Caution: ensure proper energizer sizing to match the netting for effective deterrence and animal safety.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Electric Fence Systems
- Animal pressure and height requirements: Deer and raccoons vary in height and boldness. Taller nets (around 47–68 inches) provide stronger deterrence against deer, while 42–45 inch nets may suffice for raccoons and smaller predators.
- Portability and ease of setup: If you rotate pastures or move fencing often, choose a system with built-in posts, simple unrolls, and quick connections. Portable kits save time on-year round protection.
- Netting construction and durability: Look for fiberglass posts, stainless steel wire, and multiple conductive strands. These features improve longevity in outdoor conditions and reduce maintenance.
- Power source and energizer compatibility: Solar options are convenient for sunlit areas; ensure energizer compatibility and proper grounding to maximize effectiveness and safety.
- Grounding and safety considerations: A proper ground rod and correct energizer settings are essential. Avoid continuous current energizers with some netting types to prevent overheating and ensure humane deterrence.
- Coverage area and perimeter length: Calculate total fencing length and break it into practical zones to optimize wire type, post spacing, and energizer output. Larger properties may require higher-output or multiple energizers.
- Wildlife-specific concerns: If raccoons are the primary issue, slightly shorter, dense netting can deter entry points. For deer-heavy areas, higher netting, stronger posts, and more robust energizers are advisable.
Practical Comparison At A Glance
- Best for quick setup and gardens: Gallagher Garden & Backyard Protection Kit
- Better for larger predators: PPOLB Netting (47.2″ height)
- Choose this if you need a tall, agro-friendly option: Premier 1 PermaNet
- Best portable multi-use system: Gallagher Smart Fence 2
- A balanced all-around choice for small farms: OULUU Netting (35.4″ height)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will these fences harm deer or raccoons? Electric fencing uses a non-lethal, momentary shock designed to deter animals from approaching. Energizer settings and proper grounding affect how effective and humane the fence is.
- Can I install these fences myself? Yes. All selected products are designed for DIY installation with clear unrolling, staking, and energizer connection steps. Some kits include essential components like solar energizers and ground rods.
- Do I need a power source? Solar options are common, but some setups require a standard electrical outlet. Check the energizer’s requirements and the netting’s compatibility with solar or AC power.
- How tall should the fence be for deer control? In deer-prone areas, fence height around 4.5 to 5.5 feet is generally recommended, depending on species behavior and local regulations.
- What maintenance is required? Regularly inspect posts, wires, and connections, especially after heavy wind, snow, or storms. Clean energizer contacts and replace damaged sections as needed to maintain performance.
- Are these fences safe for pets? Properly energizing and grounding reduces risk to pets. Follow manufacturer guidelines for safe operation and suitable livestock classifications.
Choosing the right electric fence involves balancing height, durability, and portability with your property size and predator pressure. The options above provide a range of configurations—from fully integrated kits to modular netting—that can deter deer and raccoons while supporting garden and livestock protection goals. Refer to the Buying Guide questions to tailor your choice to your landscape, climate, and maintenance preferences.