Fencing guide
Fence Installation: Materials, Costs, Permits, and How to Hire
A new fence adds privacy, security, and curb appeal. Know your material options, what permits you need, and how to find a fencing contractor who does it right.
Fence Materials & Typical Costs
The right fence depends on your goals — privacy, security, aesthetics, or containing pets and kids.
Wood (Privacy)
$15–$30/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Pros: Classic look, customisable height and style, paintable
Cons: Requires staining/sealing every 2–3 years, can rot or warp
Best for: Backyard privacy, traditional homes
Vinyl/PVC
$20–$40/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 20–30 years
Pros: Low maintenance, won't rot or rust, stays white
Cons: Higher upfront cost, can crack in extreme cold
Best for: Low-maintenance privacy, pool enclosures
Chain Link
$8–$18/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 20–30 years
Pros: Affordable, durable, low maintenance
Cons: No privacy, industrial look
Best for: Pet containment, utility areas, security perimeters
Aluminium
$20–$35/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 30–50 years
Pros: Rust-proof, elegant look, low maintenance
Cons: Less privacy, can dent
Best for: Front yards, pool fencing, decorative borders
Wrought Iron
$25–$50/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 50–100 years
Pros: Extremely durable, classic look, high security
Cons: Heavy, can rust without maintenance, expensive
Best for: Historic homes, high-security applications
Split Rail
$10–$20/linear ft installed
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Pros: Rustic look, affordable, easy install
Cons: No privacy or security, limited containment
Best for: Property boundary marking, rural properties
Permits, HOA Rules & Property Lines
Building permits
Most municipalities require a permit for fences over 6 feet tall, or any fence in a front yard. Your contractor should pull the permit — if they say you don't need one, verify with your local building department.
HOA approval
If you live in an HOA, get written approval before any work begins. HOAs often restrict fence height, materials, and colors. Violations can result in fines and mandatory removal.
Property line survey
Never assume where your property line is. A survey costs $300–$700 but prevents costly disputes with neighbors. Your contractor should install the fence 2–6 inches inside your property line.
Call 811 before digging
Always call 811 (or your local equivalent) before any post holes are dug. It's free, required by law, and prevents hitting buried utility lines.
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
DIY
Suitable for:
- Split rail fence on flat terrain
- Chain link fence in a small yard
- Replacing individual fence boards
Not suitable for:
- Privacy fences over 100 linear feet
- Any fence requiring permits
- Sloped or rocky terrain
- Vinyl or ornamental iron installation
Hire a Pro
Why hire a pro:
- Post setting in concrete requires the right depth and spacing for your soil type
- Pros handle permit applications and inspections
- Proper gate installation requires precise alignment
- Sloped terrain requires specialized racking or stepping techniques
Frequently Asked Questions
Fencing costs vary by material, linear footage, terrain, and regional labor rates. Figures reflect typical US market rates as of 2026 and are for budgeting purposes only.
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