Best Fence Installation in Pennsylvania Ranked

Installing a fence is a significant investment that enhances privacy, security, and curb appeal for your Pennsylvania property. However, navigating local regulations, material choices, and neighbor considerations is essential for a successful project. This guide provides clear, practical information on Pennsylvania's fence installation requirements, costs, and best practices to help you plan effectively and connect with qualified local professionals for your specific needs.

R&R FENCE LLC

1510 Old Bristol Pike rear, Morrisville, PA 19067

R&R FENCE LLC is a fence installation contractor serving Philadelphia, PA, and surrounding areas in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. With over ten years of experience, they provide fence installation services for both residential and commercial properties. The company focuses on helping customers choose the right type of fence to meet their needs and ensures quality materials and workmanship. They are known for professional installations and attentive customer service throughout the project.

5.0

140 Reviews

Liberi Fence, LLC

141 Ganttown Rd, Turnersville, NJ 08012

Liberi Fence, LLC is a fence installation contractor serving Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding South Jersey area. They provide residential and commercial fencing solutions, including vinyl, wood, chain link, and ornamental fences. Their services also include railings, decks, concrete work, and custom gates. The company focuses on precise installation with proper measurements, secure footings, and clean finishing to enhance security, privacy, and curb appeal. Liberi Fence works with clients to match their property goals and style preferences, offering both full installation and DIY options. They serve Camden, Gloucester, Burlington, and nearby counties.

5.0

127 Reviews

Greenstone Gardens

philadelphia

Greenstone Gardens is a family-owned landscaping and hardscaping company serving Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding areas. With 44 years of experience, they offer a wide range of services including landscape design, hardscaping, drainage solutions, tree planting, and outdoor kitchen installation. Their expertise includes building patios, retaining walls, and effective water management systems to enhance both the beauty and functionality of outdoor spaces. As a second-generation company, Greenstone Gardens combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques to create personalized outdoor environments.

5.0

101 Reviews

AG Construction

philadelphia

AG Construction is a fencing, landscaping, and hardscaping contractor serving Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding Tri-state area. They specialize in fence installation and repair, concrete work, paving, retaining walls, deck building, and outdoor steps. Their retaining walls are designed with proper drainage to ensure durability and curb appeal. AG Construction is a licensed contractor known for treating each project with care and attention to detail, focusing on quality work completed on schedule.

5.0

101 Reviews

Deptford Fence Company

675S S Evergreen Ave, Woodbury, NJ 08097

Deptford Fence Company is a fence installation contractor serving Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania areas. Since 2015, they have specialized in installing vinyl, aluminum, cedar, and pool fences that enhance privacy, security, and curb appeal. Their services include custom fence design and installation tailored to complement home architecture and landscaping. The company is known for using professional-grade materials and offers a 3-year workmanship warranty along with manufacturer warranties on aluminum and vinyl fences.

4.9

316 Reviews

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Understanding Pennsylvania Fence Regulations

Before purchasing a single post, your first step must be understanding the rules that govern fence construction in your specific location. Pennsylvania does not have a single statewide fence code; regulations are set at the municipal level by townships, boroughs, and cities. Ignoring these rules can result in fines or being forced to remove or modify your newly built fence.

Local Zoning and Height Limits

Most municipalities in PA establish maximum fence heights based on their location on your property. A common framework is:

• Rear and Side Yards: Fences are typically limited to 4 to 6 feet in height^{1 2 3}.
• Front Yards: Height limits are usually more restrictive, often capping fences at 4 feet or less to maintain open sightlines and streetscape aesthetics^{2 4}.
• Special Cases: Some areas, like Philadelphia, have specific ordinances. Always check with your local zoning office for the exact limits that apply to your address⁵.

Permit Requirements

A permit is frequently required for fence installation. Common triggers for needing a permit include:

• Any fence over 30 inches tall^{1 2}.
• Any fence exceeding 6 feet in height, which often requires a building permit^{4 3 5}.
• Fences in historic districts or other specially regulated areas. The permit process ensures your planned fence complies with local zoning setbacks (how far the fence must be from property lines or sidewalks) and other codes. Contacting your municipal building or zoning department is a non-negotiable first step^{6 1 7}.

Navigating Property Lines and Neighbor Relations

One of the most critical and often overlooked aspects of fence installation is accurately determining where your property ends and your neighbor's begins.

Establishing Boundaries

Building a fence even a few inches over your property line can lead to significant legal disputes. If you are unsure about your property lines:

• Review your property survey: This document, typically received during home purchase, should show boundary markers.
• Hire a professional surveyor: For a definitive answer, especially if no recent survey exists or the land is irregularly shaped, investing in a new survey is highly recommended^{8 7}.

The "Good Neighbor Fence"

For fences built directly on a shared property line, Pennsylvania law and common practice emphasize cooperation^{8 9}:

• Mutual Agreement: Ideally, neighbors should agree on the fence's placement, style, and cost-sharing before construction begins.
• Written Understanding: While not always legally required, a simple written agreement detailing responsibilities can prevent future misunderstandings.
• Face the "Good Side" Out: A common courtesy is to install the finished, "good" side of the fence facing your neighbor's property and the public street.

Avoiding Easements and Right-of-Ways

Never build a fence within a public utility easement or a street right-of-way. These are areas where utility companies or the municipality have legal access. Building here can result in your fence being removed without compensation if access is needed^{6 8}.

Popular Fence Materials for Pennsylvania's Climate

Choosing the right material balances aesthetics, budget, maintenance, and durability against Pennsylvania's varied weather, from humid summers to snowy winters.

Wood Fencing

Wood remains a classic and popular choice for its natural look and versatility.

• Pressure-Treated Pine: The most common and economical wood option. It's infused with preservatives to resist rot, decay, and insect damage, making it durable for PA's climate¹⁰.
• Cedar and Redwood: Naturally resistant to insects and decay, these woods offer a beautiful, rustic appearance and often last longer than pine without chemical treatment, though at a higher initial cost¹⁰.
• Maintenance: Wood fences require periodic staining or sealing to protect against moisture and UV damage.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl (PVC) fencing has gained immense popularity due to its low maintenance and longevity.

• Durability: It won't rot, warp, or peel and is resistant to insects. A simple wash with a hose keeps it looking new.
• Styles: Available in a wide range of styles, including privacy, picket, and rail, often mimicking the look of painted wood.
• Cost: Typically has a higher upfront cost than wood but can be more cost-effective over time due to minimal maintenance needs^{6 11}.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link is a practical, budget-friendly option prized for its security and durability.

• Affordability: It is generally the least expensive material to install¹¹.
• Function: Provides a clear boundary and security without blocking views. Privacy can be added with vinyl slats or climbing plants.
• Low Maintenance: Galvanized or vinyl-coated chain link is highly durable and requires almost no upkeep⁶.

Cost Considerations for Fence Installation

The total cost of your fence project depends on several variables: material, linear footage, height, terrain, and labor. Prices can vary widely across different regions of Pennsylvania.

Cost by Material (Per Linear Foot, Installed)

• Chain Link: Often the most economical option. A 200-foot basic chain link fence project can range from approximately $3,600 to $7,000¹¹.
• Wood: For basic to mid-range wood fences like pressure-treated pine, expect costs in the range of $20 to $40 or more per linear foot^{12 13}. A 100-foot wood privacy fence could cost between $1,800 and $7,000+^{13 14}.
• Vinyl: Typically has a higher initial cost than wood, often starting in the range of wood's higher end and increasing based on style and quality¹¹.

Factors Influencing Final Price

• Linear Footage: The single biggest cost driver.
• Terrain: Sloped or rocky yards require more labor and specialized installation techniques.
• Gates: Adding gates increases the cost.
• Removal & Disposal: If an old fence needs to be removed first.
• Permit Fees: Your local municipality will charge a fee for the required permit.

Homeowner Association (HOA) Rules

If your property is part of a Homeowner Association, you must comply with its Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). HOA rules are separate from municipal codes and are often more restrictive regarding^{9 4}:

• Approved fence materials and colors.
• Specific style requirements (e.g., only split-rail or shadowbox).
• Additional approval processes before applying for a city permit. Always obtain written approval from your HOA's architectural review committee before finalizing plans.

A Step-by-Step Planning Checklist

Follow this checklist to ensure a smooth fence installation process:

1. Check Local Zoning & Obtain Permits: Contact your township, borough, or city zoning/building department to confirm height limits, setbacks, and permit requirements^{6 1 2}.
2. Review HOA Guidelines: If applicable, submit your plans to your HOA for approval^{9 4}.
3. Locate Property Lines: Use your property survey or hire a surveyor. Mark the boundaries clearly^{8 7}.
4. Talk to Adjacent Neighbors: Discuss your plans, especially for boundary-line fences. Good communication can prevent disputes^{8 9}.
5. Identify Utility Lines: Call 811 (PA One Call) at least 3 business days before any digging to have underground utility lines marked for free.
6. Avoid Easements: Confirm the location of any utility or drainage easements on your property and plan your fence outside of them^{6 8}.
7. Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several licensed and insured fence professionals. Get detailed written estimates that include materials, labor, permit acquisition, and cleanup.
8. Verify Insurance & References: Ensure your chosen contractor carries liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for and contact recent local references.

Frequently asked questions

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