How to Set Up a Temporary Electric Fence in 5 Easy Steps

Whether you’re doing rotational grazing, keeping animals in line at an event, or just need a temporary enclosure for livestock, a temporary electric fence is a flexible, cost-effective solution. The beauty of these fences is their simplicity—you can set them up quickly, move them as needed, and pack them away when you're done. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up a temporary electric fence in just 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Plan Your Layout

Before you set up, you need to decide where the fence is going. Walk the area, making sure there are no big obstacles like trees, rocks, or ditches that could interfere with the fence. Ensure the ground is relatively even so the fence stays taut.

  • Pro Tip: Have a map of the area handy. Even for temporary fencing, knowing your boundaries will make the setup quicker and more efficient.

Step 2: Install Step-In Posts

For temporary electric fencing, step-in posts are your best friend. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and can be moved as needed.

  1. Place a post every 10 to 15 feet, depending on the terrain. On uneven ground, you may need posts closer together.
  2. Push the posts into the ground by stepping on the built-in footplate.
  3. Make sure the posts are aligned straight to keep your fence looking professional and functioning properly.
  • Best Materials: Fiberglass or plastic step-in posts work best for temporary setups since they don’t require insulators.

Step 3: String the Poly Product

Once your posts are in place, it’s time to attach the fencing material. For temporary setups, poly tape, poly braid, or poly rope are ideal because they’re lightweight and easy to handle.

  1. Start at the corner post and unroll the poly material, pulling it taut as you go.
  2. Hook it into the built-in clips on the step-in posts.
  3. Make sure the poly product is tight but not overly stretched to prevent sagging.
  • Pro Tip: Use poly tape if you need visibility (like for horses) or poly braid for strength and conductivity.

Step 4: Attach the Energizer

Now, for the part that makes your electric fence more than just a regular fence—the energizer.

  1. Choose an energizer based on the length of your fence and the type of livestock. For temporary setups, battery-powered or solar-powered energizers are a great choice for ease and portability.
  2. Attach the energizer to a corner post and connect the lead-out wire from the energizer to the poly fence material.
  3. Install grounding rods at least 10 feet away from the fence, and connect the energizer’s ground terminal to the rods.
  • Pro Tip: For longer fences or areas with dense vegetation, use a more powerful energizer to compensate for the resistance created by the grass or leaves.

Step 5: Test the Fence

Once everything is set up, it’s crucial to test the fence to make sure it’s working correctly.

  1. Use a voltage tester to check the voltage at different points along the fence line. For most livestock, you’ll want a minimum of 2,000 volts.
  2. Walk the perimeter of the fence, ensuring there’s no sagging or breaks in the poly material.
  • Pro Tip: If the voltage is lower than expected, check your grounding rods. Often, poor grounding is the cause of low voltage.

Temporary electric fencing is the perfect solution when you need something quick, flexible, and effective. Whether you’re rotating pastures, creating a holding area, or setting up for an event, following these 5 simple steps will give you a functional, reliable fence in no time.

  • Fence-in-a-Box

    Plug in your fence size, choose your options and get everything you need sent straight to your door, plans, measurements and all.

    NO THINKING INVOLVED. 

    It’s like having a fencing expert on speed dial, but cheaper and less chatty!

    Doesn't Get Much Easier.

    Take a look 
  • Installation Tips

    Need help setting up your electric fence? Check out our easy installation guide! From selecting the right posts to getting the energizer set up, we’ve got all the tips you need to make your fencing project a breeze. Visit our Installation Tips page for step-by-step instructions.

    Check it out 
  • Introducing the Ouchi-meter

    Put a little presicion in your zap. This little gadget breaks down how steel strands can effect distance your zap will travel with different energizers. Whether it's a gentle "not today" or a "seriously, back off," the Ouchi-meter lets you know where to set your boundaries.

    Check out the Zap 
1 of 3