Sometimes, the construction of fences is about more than privacy and aesthetics. In many cases, fencing is required by law. There are many fencing regulations in Australia, and these vary from state to state. In this article, we'll look at six locations -- both public and private -- where some form of fencing is required by law, as well as the reasons why these laws are in place.

1. Airports

Airfields require perimeter fencing for obvious reasons, as the arrival and departure of large aircraft on a constant basis poses dangers to both people and wildlife. There are even restrictions relating to the use of ladders or crates near the fence; these generally must be kept at a 3m distance at all times, and there have been many occasions where individuals, in an attempt to get a better vantage point, have encroached on these rules and have been asked by the Australian Federal Police to move back.

2. Electrical substations

Throughout suburban Australia, electrical substations can be seen in many major areas. These are a necessary part of the electrical distribution system of our nation. However, due to the high-voltage equipment that is contained within these substations, there is a real danger to non-skilled individuals that might enter the area. As a result, security fencing is required in all premises of this kind.

3. Prisons

Due to the nature of incarceration, prisons obviously require a high standard of perimeter fencing in order to keep inmates from escaping and to keep outsiders from entering. Legal requirements vary depending on the grade of the prison, but much of the time, complex barbed-wire and electrical fencing structures are implemented.

4. Zoos and wildlife parks

Aside from the perimeter fencing required in order to keep visitors from entering the park outside of hours or without paying the entry fee, zoo and wildlife park enclosures are required to have various levels of fencing or, alternatively, moats, depending on the types of animals contained within. Electric wires are recommended for enclosures containing carnivores with climbing ability.

5. Horse and bull enclosures

For those who keep horses or bulls at their homes, there are also requirements for enclosures. Post and rail fencing using timber, steel piping or steel posts is considered suitable, while wire fencing should be avoided because of the risk of injury that it poses to animals. Overall, the fencing should be considered sufficiently sturdy to stop the horses or bulls from escaping.

6. Pool fencing

In each state of Australia, fencing is required to be placed around pools in the home in order to promote safety and keep children from accessing the pool without parental supervision. Generally, if you have an excavation or structure capable of being filled with water to a depth of 30cm or more at its deepest point, you'll need to hire fencing contractors to install a fence of 1.2m high right around. Gates generally must only swing outwards, and they must be self-closing as well. Often, local councils conduct pool safety inspections to ensure that all residences are following the law, with heavy fines for non-compliance.