A fence or fence[1]​ is an architectural element used to delimit areas and protect them from intruders. They are usually metal, wood or stone.

Fences are placed around a property, land or garden, and have the function of preventing entry to it and/or protecting the privacy of its inhabitants. Fences are installed on farms, or in other spaces such as, for example, home gardens.

The oldest fences were made of dry-stacked stone or different patterns of inert or living plants. A typical contemporary fence is made up of a series of wooden planks or stakes placed vertically and finished in a pointed or rounded shape. They are nailed to the ground and joined by means of other horizontal boards that are nailed to the previous ones. There are also metal fences that consist of a wire mesh, called albarda. There are also fences made from natural materials such as reeds "Cane (vegetable)") or heather. In this case, the pieces are braided with wire forming a dense surface.

In northern Mexico, they are built with ocotillo, governor, planks, wooden pallet bases, barbed wire, among other materials. Also in some areas of Mexico the word "fencer" is used to refer to a wall made of sticks or firewood packed with wood. Wood houses are also known as “close houses.” In this context, “enclosure” means using this construction technique.[2]​.

Mobile fences are metal structures that are placed on public roads to delimit spaces for temporary events, such as shows, parades or processions. They also serve to protect circumstantial works in public areas. They usually consist of a frame with bars inside that sits on two wide legs that provide stability. On the sides, they have a hook that allows different fences to be joined together, forming continuous protection for use over wide areas.