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Top Fence Installation in Highland, California Ranked
Adding a fence to your Highland property is a significant investment that enhances privacy, security, and curb appeal. Whether you're looking to define your property line, create a safe space for children and pets, or simply boost your home's aesthetic, understanding the local landscape for fencing is crucial. This guide provides essential information on materials, costs, and, most importantly, the local rules and permits specific to Highland, helping you make an informed decision and connect with qualified professionals for your project.
Understanding Highland's Fence Regulations
Before you select a single post, your first step should be to understand the local rules. Highland, like all California cities, has specific zoning codes that govern fence construction to ensure safety, visibility, and community standards 1.
Height and Placement Rules: A common standard in residential areas is a 6-foot maximum height for backyard fences. However, front yard fences often have stricter, lower height limits to maintain sightlines for traffic safety 1 2. Special rules also apply to pool barriers, which have their own stringent requirements for height, gate latching, and non-climbable surfaces. It is imperative to check your exact property lines and any utility easements before installation to avoid future disputes or the need to move a completed fence 3.
The Permit Process: Many fence projects in Highland will require a permit. Generally, any fence over a certain height (often 6 feet, but confirm locally) or any fence enclosing a pool will need approval from the City of Highland's Building & Planning Department 1 4. The process typically involves submitting a site plan, details on materials, and paying a fee. After installation, a city inspector will usually visit to ensure the fence complies with the approved plans and local codes. Skipping this step can result in fines or being forced to remove the non-compliant structure 5.
Choosing the Right Fencing Material for Your Home
The material you choose will define your fence's look, longevity, maintenance needs, and cost. Highland homeowners have several popular options, each with distinct advantages.
Wood Fencing: The classic choice for privacy fencing, wood offers a natural, warm aesthetic. In Highland, cedar is a premium option prized for its natural resistance to rot and insects, while pressure-treated pine provides a more budget-friendly alternative that still offers durability. Keep in mind that wood fences require periodic staining or painting to maintain their appearance and protect against the elements 6 7.
Vinyl Fencing: For a low-maintenance privacy solution, vinyl is increasingly popular. It mimics the look of painted wood but won't rot, warp, or need repainting. It's available in a variety of styles and colors and simply needs occasional cleaning with soap and water. While the upfront cost can be higher than some wood options, the savings in time and maintenance costs over decades can be significant 6 8.
Metal Fencing Options: This category ranges from functional to highly decorative.
- Chain Link: This is the most economical fencing option, excellent for marking boundaries, securing pets, or enclosing a garden. Its open design doesn't block wind or views. Privacy can be added later with vinyl slats woven through the links, which increases the cost 9.
- Aluminum and Steel: These materials offer a sleek, modern look for decorative and security fencing. Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and often comes in pre-assembled panels for easier installation. Steel is stronger and more secure but may require coatings to prevent rust. Both are available in various ornamental styles 6 8.
- Wrought Iron: The premium choice for metal fencing, wrought iron provides timeless elegance and superior security. It is custom-crafted, extremely durable, but also requires the highest investment and needs painting to prevent rust 7.
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Breaking Down Fence Installation Costs
The total price of your fence project is influenced by three primary factors: materials, labor, and the complexity of the installation. As a rule of thumb, labor typically accounts for 40-60% of the total project cost 10 11.
Cost by Material (Per Linear Foot Installed): These are estimated price ranges to help you budget; your final quote will depend on your specific choices and property conditions.
- Wood Privacy Fence (6 ft): $35 - $65 per linear foot. Cedar will be at the higher end of this range, while pressure-treated pine will be lower 6 7.
- Vinyl Privacy Fence: $20 - $40 per linear foot. Prices vary based on the style, thickness of the vinyl, and the complexity of the design 6 8.
- Chain Link Fence: $10 - $30 per linear foot. The basic gauge for residential use is included; adding privacy slats or a heavier gauge will increase the price 9.
- Aluminum or Decorative Metal Fence: $25 - $55 per linear foot. Simpler, pre-fabricated styles are more affordable, while custom ornamental designs command higher prices 6 8.
Additional Cost Factors:
- Terrain: Installing a fence on a steeply sloped or rocky lot requires more labor and specialized techniques, increasing the cost.
- Gates: Including gates, especially double-wide or automated ones, adds to the material and labor expense.
- Removal & Disposal: If an old fence needs to be taken down and hauled away, this will be an additional line item in your quote.
- Permits: Don't forget to factor in the cost of the required city permit and any potential inspection fees 1.
Planning and Executing Your Fence Project
A successful fence installation starts with careful planning. After confirming local rules with the city, take time to clearly define your goals. Is privacy the top priority, or is it purely decorative? What is your long-term budget, including maintenance? Once you have a vision, obtaining multiple detailed quotes from established local installers is wise. A reputable professional will visit your property, discuss material options, point out potential challenges like slopes or hard ground, and provide a written estimate that includes all costs-materials, labor, permits, and cleanup.
Before work begins, it's also a good practice to have a friendly conversation with your neighbors about your plans, especially if the fence will be on or near a shared property line. This can prevent misunderstandings and foster good community relations. Finally, ensure your contract clearly outlines the project timeline, payment schedule, warranty information, and confirms that the installer will handle all necessary permit applications and inspections.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
Footnotes
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Complete California Fence Permit Requirements Guide - https://agvinylfencing.com/fence-permit-requirements-california/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
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15-2-4: HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS FOR WALLS AND FENCES: - https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/elsegundoca/latest/elsegundo_ca/0-0-0-10843 ↩
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California Fence Permits | Privacy Fence Rules & Aluminum ... - https://aluglobusfence.com/installation/understanding-permits-and-regulations-for-privacy-fence-installation-in-california/ ↩
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Permit Exceptions | Highland, CA - https://www.highlandca.gov/313/Permit-Exceptions ↩
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How much does a fence cost per foot in California? - https://fenceinstallationsandiego.com/how-much-does-a-fence-cost-per-foot-in-california/ ↩
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2026 Fence Installation Costs in Los Angeles & Orange County - https://everfence.com/los-angeles-orange-county/2026-fence-installation-costs-in-los-angeles-orange-county-full-pricing-guide/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
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Fence cost per linear foot: 7 Powerful Facts for 2025 - https://www.brentwoodfence.com/blog/fence-cost-per-linear-foot-nh-ma-me ↩ ↩2 ↩3
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Your Guide to Fence Installation Cost by Material and Size - https://jhlandscapes.com/your-guide-to-fence-installation-cost-by-material-and-size/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
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Chain Link Fence Cost per Foot in CA: Heights, Gauges, Slats - https://fencespecialties.com/chain-link-fence-cost-california-per-foot/ ↩ ↩2
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How Much Does a Fence Cost? Backyard Fencing Installation Guide - https://www.rmfp.com/blog/how-much-does-a-fence-cost ↩
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Privacy Fence Cost Guide 2025: Materials, Labor, and Installation - https://barrierbossusa.com/blogs/news/how-much-does-a-privacy-fence-cost-usa-2025 ↩
