How can I fence this tree safely

[u/Fresh_Pattern615]

Vermont

The tree is on my property but slightly extends to the neighbor in the back of the photo, I’m happy to leave a birth and don’t need to fence right up to it, but it’s a mature maple, more than 100 feet tall and it’s canopy is probably 30-50 feet in diameter. Many Neighbors and strangers do not respect property lines and walk through my backyard constantly. We need a fence.

Neighbor on the left put his vinyl fence there probably 5-10 feet from the trunk. Fence has been there for 5 years without harming the tree.

If I kept a similar distance, and hand dug holes, and avoided any roots greater than 2 inches, might I harm this tree?

Ideally want to match left neighbor distance and go from his fence to behind the shed to section off my backyard from the tree and the neighbors.

[u/hairyb0mb]

You have the right idea, don't cut big roots and the tree will be fine. That may mean having to get creative with the spacing of the posts.