Top Fence Installation in Newton, Massachusetts Ranked

Adding a fence to your Newton property can enhance privacy, define your landscape, and increase security. Whether you're looking for a classic wooden boundary, a low-maintenance vinyl enclosure, or a decorative metal fence, understanding local regulations and material options is key to a successful project. This guide will help you navigate the specifics of fence building in Newton, from permit requirements to choosing the right contractor for the job.

JR's Landscaping & Sons LLC

3 Sorelle Pl, Burlington, MA 01803

JR's Landscaping & Sons LLC is a full-service landscaping company serving Boston, MA, and Middlesex County. They provide a wide range of services including lawn mowing, lawn fertilization, weed control, sod installation, fence installation, landscape lighting, sprinkler installation and repair, hardscaping with patios and retaining walls, and custom landscape design. With over 20 years of experience since 1997, they offer year-round solutions tailored to maintain and enhance outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial properties. Their capabilities include expert hardscape installations such as stone walkways, patios, and retaining walls designed for New England weather conditions.

5.0

148 Reviews

Done Right Landscape & Construction

20 Fitch Ct, Wakefield, MA 01880

Done Right Landscape & Construction is a full-service landscaping and hardscaping company serving the Boston, MA area. They specialize in residential and commercial landscape design, fence installation, patios, retaining walls, and other outdoor construction projects. With over 40 years of experience since 1980, their team works closely with clients to create customized outdoor spaces that combine functionality and aesthetic appeal. Their expertise includes the installation of vinyl, steel, aluminum, and wooden fences, as well as low-maintenance stonescaping designs.

4.9

331 Reviews

The Pros Inc. - Landscape Design & Build

29 Hanover St, Lynn, MA 01902

The Pros Inc. - Landscape Design & Build is a landscaping and outdoor living company serving Boston, MA, and surrounding areas. With over 20 years of experience, they offer a wide range of services including landscape design, lawn care, sod installation, fence installation, hardscaping, outdoor lighting, irrigation, water features, pool and spa construction, decks, pergolas, driveways, and seasonal maintenance. Their expertise includes custom pool building with options like fiberglass and gunite concrete pools, as well as comprehensive irrigation systems designed for efficient watering. The company also provides snow and ice management services during winter months.

4.9

217 Reviews

Pat Gibbs Landscape Design & Construction, Inc.

boston

Pat Gibbs Landscape Design & Construction, Inc. is a landscaping and construction company serving Boston, MA, and the surrounding areas. With over 25 years of experience, they offer a wide range of services including lawn maintenance, landscaping, hardscaping, excavating, fencing installation, outdoor living spaces, tick and mosquito spray, bathroom remodeling, dumpster rental, and snow removal. The company uses quality materials such as Techo Block and Uni-Lock for durable and attractive hardscaping projects and provides a 25-year warranty on hardscaping work. They also offer a 10% discount for military and first responders on seasonal contracts and hardscaping.

4.9

147 Reviews

Anthony Tree Services & Landscaping

boston

Anthony Tree Services & Landscaping is a landscaping and tree care company based in Boston, MA. They offer a range of services including lawn fertilization, weed control, tree removal, stump grinding, fence installation, and landscape design. Their capabilities include professional tree services and pest and weed control to maintain healthy and visually appealing green spaces. The company also specializes in constructing and remodeling outdoor features such as fences and poolside walkways. Anthony Tree Services & Landscaping emphasizes environmentally considerate landscaping solutions and provides free consultations to plan and maintain gardens and lawns.

4.9

87 Reviews

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Understanding Newton's Fence Regulations

Before any posts go into the ground, it's crucial to understand Newton's zoning and building codes. The city has specific rules governing fence height, location, and the permit process, which are designed to maintain neighborhood character and safety.

Key Permit Requirements:

• Front Yards: Fences cannot exceed 4 feet in height. If you wish to install a taller fence in the front, you must obtain a permit and adhere to a setback requirement: for every foot the fence exceeds 4 feet, it must be set back an additional foot from the property line^{1 2 3}.
• Back Yards: For fences between 4 and 6 feet tall, a building permit is typically required. Any fence structure planned to be over 6 feet tall may need additional review by the Urban Design Committee^{1 2 4}.
• The Permit Process: A licensed professional fence installer will usually manage the permit application with Newton's Inspectional Services Department (ISD), ensuring all plans comply with local ordinances^{2 5}. This is one of the major benefits of hiring an experienced local contractor.

Choosing the Right Fencing Material for Your Home

The material you choose will define your fence's appearance, durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Newton homeowners have several popular options, each with distinct advantages.

Wood Fencing: Classic New England Charm

Wood remains a timeless choice for its natural beauty and versatility. It's excellent for creating full privacy with solid board styles or adding decorative appeal with picket or lattice-top designs. Popular woods like cedar and pressure-treated pine offer good resistance to the elements, but all wood fences require periodic staining or sealing to protect against Massachusetts' humid summers and snowy winters^{6 7}.

Vinyl Fencing: Modern Durability and Low Maintenance

For homeowners seeking a long-lasting solution with minimal upkeep, vinyl fencing is a top contender. It won't rot, warp, or need painting, making it ideal for the New England climate. Available in privacy, picket, and rail styles, high-quality vinyl products often come with extensive warranties. While the initial investment can be higher than basic wood, the savings on maintenance over time can be significant^{6 8}.

Metal Fencing: Strength and Style

Metal options provide durability and a distinct aesthetic.

• Aluminum & Wrought Iron: These materials offer elegant, decorative boundaries that are incredibly strong and long-lasting. They are perfect for defining property lines without blocking views and are often used for ornamental purposes around gardens or historic homes^{6 8}.
• Chain Link: As a budget-friendly and highly functional option, chain link is effective for security, pet containment, and defining large areas. While not known for its privacy or curb appeal, newer vinyl-coated versions come in various colors to blend better with landscapes⁶.

The Professional Installation Process and Associated Costs

A professional fence installation involves more than just digging holes and setting posts. A reputable contractor will guide you through a comprehensive process to ensure a durable, code-compliant result.

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Consultation & Planning: A contractor will assess your property, discuss your needs, and help you select the right material and style.
2. Permitting & Utility Locates: They will file for the necessary Newton building permits and schedule a Dig Safe (811) ticket to mark all underground utilities before any excavation begins⁹.
3. Site Preparation & Installation: Posts are set in concrete footings that extend below the frost line (approximately 4 feet deep in Massachusetts) to prevent heaving during freeze-thaw cycles⁹. Panels or pickets are then assembled and secured.
4. Final Inspection: The contractor will ensure the finished fence meets all agreed-upon specifications and municipal codes.

Understanding Fence Installation Costs: The total cost for your fence project in Newton can vary widely based on material, height, linear footage, and terrain complexity. On average, you can expect installed costs to range from $8 to over $60 per linear foot^{6 7}.

• Wood and Vinyl fences often fall in the $20 to $50 per linear foot range^{6 7}.
• Ornamental aluminum or wrought iron fences typically command a higher price due to material and fabrication costs⁸.
• Factors like sloping land, difficult soil, custom gates, or decorative post caps will add to the overall project price.

Always request detailed, written estimates from several licensed and insured Newton fence contractors. This should include a breakdown of material costs, labor, permit fees, and any potential extra charges.

Long-Term Considerations for Your Newton Fence

Thinking beyond installation will help you protect your investment. Discuss maintenance schedules with your installer-whether it's annual cleaning for vinyl or staining every few years for wood. Understand your warranty coverage for both materials and workmanship. Also, be a good neighbor by confirming your property lines, often with a survey, before construction begins to avoid future disputes.

For any project, the most important step is consulting with Newton's Inspectional Services Department and a qualified local fencing professional. They provide the definitive guidance on your property's specific requirements and ensure your new fence is built to last, adding value and function to your home for years to come^{2 5}.

Frequently asked questions

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