Top Fence Installation in Cleveland Heights, Ohio Ranked

Adding a fence to your Cleveland Heights property is a significant investment that enhances privacy, security, and curb appeal. Whether you're looking for a classic wooden privacy fence, a low-maintenance vinyl barrier, or a decorative picket fence, understanding local regulations and material options is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the planning process, from permit requirements to choosing the right contractor for your project.

DogWatch Hidden Fences of Cleveland

18486 Geauga Lake Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

DogWatch Hidden Fences of Cleveland is a locally owned fence installation contractor specializing in hidden and underground dog fences in Cleveland, OH. They offer a range of pet containment solutions including outdoor invisible fences, indoor and mobile boundaries, and advanced GPS dog fences with personalized training. Their systems use patented FM SafeLink® digital signals to reduce interference and provide reliable containment with long-lasting collar batteries. With over 70 years of combined experience, DogWatch Cleveland supports pet owners through installation, setup, and training to ensure pets stay safely within designated areas.

5.0

296 Reviews

Veterans Fence

12020 York Rd, North Royalton, OH 44133

Veterans Fence is a veteran-owned fence installation company serving Cleveland, OH. They offer a variety of fencing solutions including wood privacy fences, vinyl fences, aluminum fences, and custom gates to enhance security, privacy, and curb appeal. Veterans Fence specializes in custom-built fences rather than pre-fabricated panels, allowing for better adaptation to terrain and smoother transitions. Each fence installation includes a two-year labor warranty, reflecting their commitment to craftsmanship. The company also provides financing options for projects.

5.0

248 Reviews

DeFazio Company

8700 S Akins Rd Ste 1, North Royalton, OH 44133

DeFazio Company is a locally owned business in Cleveland, OH, specializing in outdoor lighting, fence installation, and irrigation services. Since 2007, they have provided full-service installations, repairs, and maintenance for residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Cleveland area. Their offerings include custom irrigation systems with water-saving features, a variety of fencing options such as ornamental, vinyl, and wood, and energy-efficient outdoor lighting designed to enhance safety and landscape aesthetics. The company completes all projects with in-house crews, ensuring specialized expertise in each service area.

4.9

248 Reviews

Little Rock Home Repair

cleveland

Little Rock Home Repair is a fence installation contractor based in Cleveland, OH. The company focuses on fencing installation as well as porch and deck repair. They emphasize quality workmanship and aim to build lasting relationships with their clients by committing only to projects they can confidently complete.

5.0

58 Reviews

Mae Fence Company

13210 Enterprise Ave, Cleveland, OH 44135

Mae Fence Company is a family-owned fence manufacturer and installer based in Cleveland, OH. Serving residential and commercial clients across Ohio, including Cincinnati and Columbus, they specialize in custom wood, vinyl, and aluminum fences designed for durability, privacy, and curb appeal. With nearly 100 years of experience since 1927, Mae Fence manufactures all fences in-house to ensure quality and weather resistance suited for Ohio's climate. They also manage all necessary permits and HOA approvals to streamline the installation process.

4.8

498 Reviews

See more providers in Cleveland Heights, OH

Understanding Cleveland Heights Fence Regulations

Before you pick up a single post, you must understand the local rules. The City of Cleveland Heights has specific ordinances governing fence construction, and obtaining a permit is mandatory for all new installations ^{1 2}. These rules are designed to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and ensure safety.

The most critical regulations involve height, location, and style:

• Front & Corner Side Yards: Fences are limited to a maximum height of 4 feet. They must be at least 50% open (like a traditional picket style) and require approval from the city's Architectural Board of Review (ABR) ^{1 3 4}.
• Rear & Interior Side Yards: You can install a fence up to 7 feet tall. However, if the fence runs parallel to a house (yours or a neighbor's) and is within 7 feet of it, the height cannot exceed the distance from the house wall. For example, a fence 3 feet from the house can only be 3 feet tall at that point ^{1 5}.
• Prohibitions: Barbed wire is banned. Chain-link or wire mesh fencing is not permitted in front or corner side yards ^{1 3}.
• Placement: Fences can be built directly on your property line (a 0-foot setback), but the structural supports (posts and rails) must face inward toward your property ².

Navigating these rules is a key first step, and a reputable local fencing professional will be familiar with the permit application process through the city's Planning Department.

Choosing the Right Fence for Your Needs

Your choice of fencing material will define the look, function, and long-term maintenance of your property barrier. The options available in Cleveland Heights generally fall into two categories: privacy fences and decorative or semi-privacy fences.

Privacy Fences (Solid Construction)

These are ideal for creating a secluded backyard oasis, blocking wind, and reducing noise.

• Wood Fencing: The classic choice, offering a natural, warm look. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are popular. It requires periodic staining or sealing to protect against Ohio's weather but allows for custom designs like shadowbox or board-on-board ^{6 7}.
• Vinyl Fencing: A top choice for low maintenance. It won't rot, warp, or need painting, and it's available in various styles that mimic wood. While the initial cost can be higher, the long-term savings on upkeep are significant ^{6 7}.
• Composite Fencing: Made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics, composite offers the look of wood with even greater durability and minimal maintenance than vinyl. It's a premium, eco-friendly option ⁶.

Decorative & Semi-Privacy Fences (Open Construction)

These fences define boundaries while maintaining an open, airy feel, often required for front yards.

• Aluminum or Wrought Iron: Offers timeless elegance and exceptional durability with minimal upkeep. Ornamental aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, while wrought iron provides unmatched strength for a stately appearance ^{1 7}.
• Picket Fences: The quintessential American front yard fence. Typically made of wood or vinyl, a picket fence meets the city's "50% open" requirement for front yards and adds charming curb appeal ¹.
• Chain-Link Fencing: A practical and economical option for securing rear yards. It's durable and low-maintenance but is not permitted in front or corner-side yard locations in Cleveland Heights ^{1 6}.

Cost Considerations for Your Fence Project

The total price of your fence installation in Cleveland Heights depends primarily on the material and the linear footage of your project. Costs are typically quoted per linear foot, which includes materials and professional installation.

Here's a general overview of cost ranges per linear foot for common materials ^{6 8}:

• Chain Link: $8 - $40
• Wood: $20 - $50+
• Vinyl: $25 - $60+
• Aluminum: $30 - $50+
• Composite: $30 - $60+
• Wrought Iron: $35 - $70+

For a typical residential project, you can expect a total budget in the range of $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on the size of your yard and your material selection ^{9 10}. It's wise to get multiple detailed quotes from local installers. Don't forget to factor in the cost of the required permit from the city.

Tips for Managing Your Budget

• Plan for Off-Season Installation: Contractors may offer better pricing during their slower periods, such as late fall or winter, as demand is lower ⁹.
• Clarify Quote Details: Ensure your quote includes all costs: materials, labor, removal of old fencing, permit acquisition, and any potential charges for difficult terrain.
• Consider Landscaping: If your fence will be highly visible from the street, especially in a front yard, the city's Architectural Board of Review may consider the overall landscaping plan as part of its approval ².

The Professional Installation Process

Working with a seasoned local contractor simplifies the entire process. A professional will handle the permit application, ensure your fence design complies with all local codes, and execute a quality build.

A standard installation process includes:

1. Consultation & Quote: A site visit to measure, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed estimate.
2. Design & Permitting: Finalizing the design and submitting the permit application to the City of Cleveland Heights, including ABR approval if needed for a front yard.
3. Preparation: Marking utility lines (always call 811 before digging) and preparing the site.
4. Installation: Setting posts in concrete, attaching rails and pickets/panels, and installing gates.
5. Final Inspection: Ensuring the finished fence meets all specifications and obtaining any final approvals from the city if required.

Choosing a contractor with proven experience in Cleveland Heights is invaluable, as they will be your guide through the specific local regulatory landscape.

Maintaining Your New Fence

Protecting your investment ensures your fence looks great for years.

• Wood Fences: Require the most upkeep. Plan to clean, stain, or seal every 2-3 years to prevent graying, warping, and rot.
• Vinyl & Composite Fences: Simply need occasional washing with soap and water to remove dirt and mildew.
• Metal Fences (Aluminum/Wrought Iron/Chain-Link): Check periodically for rust spots, especially after winter. Touch up with paint as needed. Aluminum is particularly rust-resistant.
• General Care: Keep vegetation trimmed back from the fence line. After heavy storms, check for damage to posts or panels.

Frequently asked questions

Sources