Top Fence Installation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ranked

Installing a fence is a significant investment that enhances your property's privacy, security, and curb appeal. In Philadelphia, this project involves navigating specific local regulations and choosing from a wide array of materials and styles to suit your needs and budget. This guide is designed to help you understand the key considerations-from Philadelphia's fence codes and material options to cost factors-so you can make informed decisions and connect with qualified local professionals for your fencing project.

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 Philadelphia's Fence Regulations

Before you start planning your fence installation, it's crucial to understand Philadelphia's zoning and building codes. These rules are in place to ensure safety, maintain neighborhood aesthetics, and respect property lines. The most important regulations concern fence height and opacity, which vary depending on the fence's location on your lot.

For front yards, the maximum allowable height is 4 feet. Additionally, fences in the front yard must be at least 50% "open" or see-through, meaning solid privacy fences are not permitted facing the street ^{1 2}. This rule helps maintain sightlines for drivers and pedestrians and fosters a more open streetscape.

In side and rear yards, you have more flexibility. The standard maximum height is 6 feet. However, if you wish to install a fence taller than 6 feet (for non-masonry) or any masonry fence over 2 feet tall, you will need to obtain a building permit from the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) ^{1 2 3}. It's always wise to check with your installer or L&I directly, as permit requirements can also be influenced by your specific neighborhood or historic district.

Choosing the Right Fencing Material

The material you choose will define your fence's appearance, durability, maintenance requirements, and a significant portion of your budget. Here's a breakdown of the most popular options for Philadelphia homes.

Wood Fencing

Wood is a classic choice that offers natural beauty and versatility. It can be stained or painted to match your home and built in various styles, from solid privacy panels to charming picket fences.

• Pros: Timeless aesthetic, highly customizable, can be more affordable for certain styles.
• Cons: Requires regular maintenance like staining or painting to prevent rot, warping, and insect damage.
• Cost Range: Approximately $10 to $45 per linear foot installed ^{1 4 3}. Pressure-treated pine is on the lower end, while cedar or redwood commands a higher price.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl has become a hugely popular alternative to wood due to its durability and minimal upkeep.

• Pros: Extremely low-maintenance, resistant to rot, insects, and fading, available in many styles and colors.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost than basic wood, can become brittle in extreme cold, and color cannot be changed.
• Cost Range: Typically between $15 and $60 per linear foot ^{1 5}.

Chain-Link Fencing

Chain-link is a practical and economical option prized for its strength and functionality.

• Pros: Most budget-friendly, very durable and secure, requires almost no maintenance.
• Cons: Offers little privacy or aesthetic appeal on its own, though privacy slats can be added.
• Cost Range: Generally $10 to $20 per linear foot installed ^{1 4}.

Ornamental Metal (Aluminum & Wrought Iron)

For security with elegance, ornamental metal fences are a top choice, often seen in historic Philadelphia neighborhoods.

• Pros: Provides exceptional security and a sophisticated, timeless look with intricate designs. Aluminum is rust-resistant.
• Cons: One of the most expensive options, wrought iron requires painting to prevent rust.
• Cost Range: Usually $30 to $70+ per linear foot ^{1 5}.

Composite Fencing

Composite materials, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastics, offer the look of wood without the intensive care.

• Pros: Mimics the appearance of wood beautifully, is highly durable, and requires no staining, sealing, or painting.
• Cons: Carries a premium price tag and has fewer style variations than wood or vinyl.
• Cost Range: Around $30 to $60 per linear foot ⁵.

Breaking Down the Costs of Fence Installation

The total cost of your fence project in Philadelphia will depend on several interconnected factors. On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $23 per linear foot for a professionally installed fence, but the final price can range from $10 to over $60 per foot based on your choices ^{4 6 7}.

Primary Cost Drivers

1. Material: As outlined above, this is the largest variable. Chain-link is the most economical, while ornamental metal and high-end composite are at the top of the range.
2. Linear Footage: The total length of the fence is the baseline for your quote. Always get precise measurements.
3. Height: Taller fences (like a 6-foot privacy fence) require more material and labor than a 4-foot decorative picket fence.
4. Labor: Installation labor typically accounts for about 50% of the total project cost ^{7 8}. Labor rates can be higher for complex materials like wrought iron or for installations requiring custom work.

Additional Factors That Influence Price

• Property Terrain: If your yard has slopes, hills, rocky soil, or many tree roots, the installation becomes more complex. Preparing the ground and installing the fence on uneven terrain can add 15-20% or more to your labor costs ^{7 8}.
• Gates: Including one or more gates adds to the material cost and installation time. Automatic gate openers are a significant additional expense.
• Permits: While often handled by your installer, the cost for a Philadelphia building permit for a fence typically ranges from $100 to $490+ and should be factored into your budget ^{1 3}.
• Removal & Disposal: If you are replacing an old fence, you will need to account for the cost of removing and disposing of the existing materials.

Planning for Privacy, Security, and Style

Your fence's primary purpose will guide many of your decisions. Are you looking to create a private backyard oasis, secure a perimeter, or simply add decorative definition to your property?

• Privacy Fencing: For maximum seclusion, you'll want a fence that is at least 6 feet tall with solid panels. Wood (in board-on-board or stockade styles) and vinyl are excellent choices for creating a visual barrier. Remember that a permit is required for fences over 6 feet in side/rear yards ^{2 9}.
• Security Fencing: To deter intruders and secure a perimeter, height and strength are key. Ornamental wrought iron or aluminum provides a formidable barrier without blocking views. Tall, sturdy chain-link fences are also a highly functional security option.
• Decorative Fencing: To enhance curb appeal and mark property boundaries without blocking sightlines, consider shorter fences (3-4 feet) in picket, split-rail, or low ornamental metal styles. These are perfect for front yards where Philadelphia's 4-foot height and opacity rules apply ¹.

The Value of Professional Installation

While a DIY fence project might seem like a way to save money, professional installation is highly recommended. A reputable local installer will:

• Ensure Code Compliance: They understand Philadelphia's specific height, setback, and permit requirements, protecting you from costly violations.
• Handle Site Challenges: Professionals have the tools and expertise to manage difficult terrain, hard soil, and proper post-setting for longevity.
• Provide Quality and Warranty: Proper installation prevents leaning, sagging, and premature deterioration. Most professional jobs come with a workmanship warranty.
• Manage the Process: From pulling permits to coordinating material delivery and cleanup, a pro manages the entire project efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

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