Top Fence Installation in Auburn, Washington Ranked

Adding a fence to your Auburn property is a significant investment that enhances privacy, security, and curb appeal. Whether you're looking to create a private backyard oasis, safely contain pets and children, or define your property lines, a well-built fence is a key component of your outdoor living space. This guide will help you understand the local regulations, material options, and cost considerations specific to Auburn, so you can make an informed decision and connect with qualified professionals for your project.

North East Landscaping Services

12259 155th Ave SE, Renton, WA 98059

North East Landscaping Services is a family-owned landscaping company with over 20 years of experience serving residential and commercial clients in Seattle, WA. They provide a comprehensive range of outdoor services including lawn care, fertilization, weed control, sod and artificial turf installation, fence and deck construction, landscape lighting, tree services, yard drainage, sprinkler installation and repair, as well as hardscaping like pavers and retaining walls. The company emphasizes quality workmanship and building lasting relationships with clients, handling projects of all sizes with care and honesty.

5.0

294 Reviews

G&E Landscape Contractor

seattle

G&E Landscape Contractor is a general contractor based in Seattle, WA, offering a wide range of landscaping and lawn care services. Their expertise includes lawn mowing, fence installation, sprinkler system installation and repair, hardscaping with pavers and retaining walls, as well as residential and commercial painting. They focus on delivering skilled craftsmanship and comprehensive landscape solutions to meet client needs.

5.0

93 Reviews

Green Earth Landscape Management, Inc

5280 SE Mile Hill Dr, Port Orchard, WA 98366

Green Earth Landscape Management, Inc provides comprehensive landscaping, hardscaping, lawn care, irrigation, and fence installation services in Seattle, WA. They offer custom landscape design, hydroseeding for lawns and erosion control, irrigation system installation and repair, as well as snow and ice management. Their work emphasizes eco-friendly and sustainable practices tailored to each property's unique needs. Serving the Seattle area and surrounding communities, Green Earth Landscape Management combines skilled craftsmanship with personalized solutions to enhance outdoor spaces.

4.9

107 Reviews

Ecoyards

1605 S 93rd St Unit EE1, Seattle, WA 98108

Ecoyards is a landscape design and installation company based in Seattle, WA. Since 2007, they have served residential properties in Seattle and nearby areas such as Mercer Island, Burien, SeaTac, Tukwila, and Normandy Park. Their services include landscape design, lawn and garden renovations, and the installation of custom fencing, irrigation systems, patios, retaining walls, and other hardscaping features. Ecoyards focuses on creating natural, environmentally friendly landscapes that are easy to maintain.

5.0

44 Reviews

Seattle Rockeries & Retaining Walls

6534 125th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98006

Seattle Rockeries & Retaining Walls is a landscaping and hardscaping contractor based in Seattle, WA. They provide services including fence installation, landscape design, yard drainage and grading, as well as custom hardscaping features like natural stone walls, rock gardens, and stone pathways. The company also offers water management solutions such as surface water management, erosion control, and landscape grading. Seattle Rockeries & Retaining Walls emphasizes the use of quality materials and expert techniques to ensure durable and functional outdoor living enhancements. Their team is experienced in site assessment, planning, and retaining wall design consultation.

4.9

71 Reviews

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Understanding Auburn's Fence Regulations

Before you start planning your fence installation, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local rules. The City of Auburn has specific codes governing fence construction to ensure safety, maintain neighborhood aesthetics, and respect property rights ¹.

Permit Requirements: In Auburn, residential fences often require a permit, especially for heights exceeding certain thresholds. While specific height triggers can vary, it's common for permits to be needed for fences over 6 to 8 feet tall ^{2 1}. The only way to be certain is to consult the official Auburn City Code or contact the city's planning department directly ^{1 3}.

Height and Placement Limits: Regulations typically differentiate between front, side, and rear yards.

• Front Yards: Fences are usually limited to a lower height, often around 6 feet or less, to preserve sightlines and the open streetscape ^{1 4}.
• Side and Rear Yards: You may be allowed taller fences, potentially up to 8 feet, for increased privacy ¹.
• Sight Clearance: A critical safety rule is that no fence can obstruct the vision of drivers at intersections or driveway entrances. This "sight triangle" must remain clear ^{1 4}.

Homeowners Association (HOA) Rules: If your property is part of a community with a Homeowners Association, you must also adhere to its covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). These rules can be more stringent than city codes, dictating approved materials, colors, styles, and even the installation process ³. Always obtain HOA approval before proceeding.

Choosing the Right Fence Material

The material you choose will define your fence's appearance, durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Here's a breakdown of popular options for Auburn homes.

Wood Fencing: A classic and versatile choice, wood fences offer a natural look that suits many architectural styles. Pressure-treated pine is a cost-effective and rot-resistant option, while cedar is prized for its natural beauty, aroma, and insect resistance. Wood is excellent for building tall privacy fences but requires regular maintenance like staining or sealing to withstand the Pacific Northwest weather ^{5 6}.

Vinyl Fencing: Known for its durability and minimal upkeep, vinyl (or PVC) fencing is a great long-term investment. It won't rot, warp, or need painting, and it simply requires occasional cleaning. Available in privacy, semi-privacy, and picket styles, vinyl can mimic the look of painted wood. While the upfront cost is higher than basic wood, the savings on maintenance over time can be significant ^{2 7}.

Chain Link Fencing: This is the most economical and functional option, ideal for security, defining boundaries, and containing pets. Modern chain link comes with vinyl coatings in various colors like black or green for a more attractive appearance. It provides minimal privacy unless paired with privacy slats, but it is incredibly durable and requires almost no maintenance ^{5 8}.

Metal Fencing: Aluminum and Wrought Iron

• Aluminum: Offers the elegant, decorative look of wrought iron but is lighter, more affordable, and rust-resistant. It's a fantastic choice for ornamental fencing around front yards, gardens, or pools ^{5 7}.
• Wrought Iron: The most durable and secure metal option, wrought iron provides a timeless, stately appearance. It is custom-made and requires professional installation and periodic painting to prevent rust ⁶.

Composite Fencing: Made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics, composite fencing is an eco-friendly alternative that combines the look of wood with the durability of synthetic materials. It resists rot, insects, and fading, and needs little maintenance beyond cleaning. It represents a higher initial investment but offers excellent longevity ⁶.

Fence Styles: Privacy vs. Decorative

Your primary goal for the project will steer you toward one of two broad style categories.

Privacy Fences: Designed to block views and create a secluded outdoor space, privacy fences are typically 6 to 8 feet tall and constructed with solid panels. The most common materials for this style are wood (board-on-board or shadowbox) and vinyl. These fences are perfect for backyards, hiding utility areas, or reducing noise ^{5 9}.

Decorative Fences: Also known as ornamental fencing, these styles focus on enhancing your home's curb appeal rather than providing a visual barrier. They are generally shorter (3 to 4 feet tall) and feature open designs. Classic picket fences, elegant aluminum or wrought iron railings, and low vinyl borders fall into this category. They are ideal for front yard boundaries, garden enclosures, and pool safety barriers ^{5 9}.

Cost to Install a Fence in Auburn

The total cost of your fence project depends on several variables: linear footage, material, height, terrain, and labor. Prices are typically quoted per linear foot, installed.

Cost Ranges by Material (Per Linear Foot):

• Chain Link Fence: The most budget-friendly option, generally ranging from $8 to $40+ per foot, depending on gauge and coating ^{5 10}.
• Wood Privacy Fence (6 ft): A popular mid-range choice, with costs between $20 and $50+ per foot. Pressure-treated pine is on the lower end, while premium cedar or redwood increases the price ^{5 9}.
• Vinyl Privacy Fence (6 ft): A higher upfront investment with prices from $25 to $65+ per foot, reflecting its durability and low maintenance ^{2 7}.
• Aluminum Ornamental Fence: Typically ranges from $30 to $60+ per foot for a decorative, durable option ^{5 7}.

Additional Cost Factors:

• Site Preparation: Costs can rise if your yard needs significant grading, tree root removal, or the demolition and disposal of an old fence.
• Gates: Adding a gate, especially a double-wide or automated one, will add to the total project cost.
• Labor: Complex installations on sloped or rocky terrain require more skill and time, increasing labor costs.
• Permits: Don't forget to budget for any required city permit fees ^{10 11}.

Planning and Professional Installation

A successful fence installation starts with careful planning.

1. Determine Your Purpose: Clearly define whether you need privacy, security, pet containment, or simply aesthetic enhancement.
2. Know Your Property Lines: Hire a surveyor if you are unsure of your exact boundaries to avoid disputes with neighbors.
3. Check Rules: Review both Auburn City Code and your HOA guidelines thoroughly ^{1 3}.
4. Talk to Your Neighbors: It's a good practice to discuss your plans with adjacent neighbors as a courtesy.
5. Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several licensed and insured fence contractors in the Auburn area. Ask for detailed written estimates that break down material, labor, and any extra costs.

Professional installers bring expertise in navigating local codes, handling difficult terrain, ensuring proper post-setting for longevity, and completing the job efficiently and safely.

Frequently asked questions

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