Top Fence Installers in Spokane, Washington Ranked

A new fence can transform your property, providing privacy, security, and a polished look to your outdoor space. Fence installation is a significant home improvement project that requires careful planning around local regulations, material choices, and professional craftsmanship. This guide is designed to help Spokane homeowners navigate the process, from understanding city codes to selecting the right fencing contractor for a successful and compliant installation.

Understanding Spokane's Fence Regulations

Before you pick up a post-hole digger, it's crucial to understand the local rules that govern fence construction. The City of Spokane and Spokane Valley have specific codes to ensure safety, maintain sightlines, and preserve neighborhood aesthetics. Ignoring these can lead to costly corrections or removal orders.

The most important regulations concern height and placement. In Spokane, residential fences in front yards are generally limited to 3.5 feet in height within the required front setback. In Spokane Valley, the rule is slightly different, allowing up to 3 feet for solid fences or 4 feet for open designs like picket fences in the front setback. For side and rear yards, both jurisdictions typically allow fences up to 6 feet tall. However, Spokane Valley notes that any fence over 7 feet requires a permit and engineering.

Key placement rules include:

• Intersection Visibility: Fences cannot obstruct the view of drivers or pedestrians at street corners or intersections.
• Adjacent Front Yards: Special, lower height limits (often around 42 inches) may apply if your side or rear yard abuts another property's front yard ¹.
• Setbacks: Fences must be placed within your property lines, respecting required setbacks from streets and sometimes lot lines.

Always check with the City of Spokane or Spokane Valley Planning Department for the exact rules applicable to your specific address and lot ².

The Permit Process for Fencing Projects

Not every fence project needs a permit, but knowing when one is required is essential. Generally, a permit is needed for fences that exceed standard height limits or are built on challenging terrain.

When is a permit typically required?

• Building a fence over 6 feet tall in the City of Spokane.
• Constructing any fence over 7 feet tall in Spokane Valley ³.
• Installing a fence on a slope where retaining wall elements might be involved.
• Erecting a masonry or concrete fence.

The permitting process involves submitting a site plan showing the fence's location, height, and materials to the local building department. This step ensures your project is reviewed for code compliance. While it adds a step to the process, it protects your investment by providing an official record that your fence was built to code ⁴.

Choosing the Right Fence Material for Your Spokane Home

Your choice of material will define your fence's appearance, durability, maintenance needs, and cost. Spokane's climate, with its hot summers and cold, snowy winters, demands materials that can withstand seasonal changes.

Privacy Fence Options

For creating a secluded backyard retreat, these are the most popular choices:

• Wood: A classic and versatile option. Pressure-treated pine offers affordability and rot resistance, while cedar provides natural beauty and insect resistance. Wood fences require periodic staining or sealing to maintain their appearance.
• Vinyl: Known for its low maintenance, vinyl fencing won't rot, warp, or need painting. It's durable and available in various styles that mimic wood grain. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term savings on upkeep can be significant.
• Composite: Made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite fencing offers the look of wood with even greater durability and minimal maintenance than vinyl. It's at the higher end of the cost spectrum.
• Chain Link with Slats: A budget-friendly privacy solution. Adding vinyl slats to a chain-link framework provides security and visual screening.

Decorative and Specialty Fences

To enhance curb appeal or mark boundaries without blocking views, consider:

• Picket Fences: Iconic for front yards, available in wood or vinyl. They add charm and define space while maintaining an open feel ⁵.
• Aluminum: Offers the elegant look of wrought iron but is lighter, more affordable, and resistant to rust. It's excellent for decorative borders and pool fencing.
• Custom Designs: For a unique statement, work with a fencing professional on custom patterns, mixed materials, or artistic elements.

Cost of Fence Installation in Spokane

The total price of your fence project is calculated per linear foot and depends primarily on the material, height, and complexity of the installation (e.g., sloping land, hard soil). Gates also add to the cost. Here's a general breakdown of material and installation costs in the Spokane area ^{6 7}:

• Wood (Pressure-Treated or Cedar): $10 - $19+ per linear foot for a standard privacy style.
• Vinyl Fencing: $15 - $30+ per linear foot.
• Chain Link (with privacy slats): $18 - $30+ per linear foot.
• Composite Fencing: $35 - $70+ per linear foot.
• Aluminum Fencing: $30 - $60+ per linear foot.
• Gates: Expect to add $200 to over $1,000 per gate, depending on whether it's a simple walk-through or a wide, automated driveway model.

Remember, these are estimated ranges. The final quote will include labor, materials, removal of an old fence (if needed), and any permit fees. Always get detailed, written estimates from several licensed and insured fence contractors.

Hiring a Professional Fence Contractor

A well-built fence is an investment that should last for decades. Hiring a reputable professional is key to achieving that longevity. Look for a contractor with specific experience in fence building and a proven track record in Spokane.

What to ask potential contractors:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for work in Spokane or Spokane Valley?
• Can you provide local references from recent fence projects?
• Who will pull the necessary permits, and are those costs included in the estimate?
• Do you offer a warranty on both materials and labor?
• Can you help me verify my property lines?

A professional will handle the heavy lifting-from navigating local codes and securing permits to ensuring posts are set deep enough to withstand our wind and frost. They will also obtain a utility locate (call 811) before any digging begins, which is a critical safety and legal step.

Long-Term Maintenance and Care

Protecting your investment doesn't end once the fence is installed. Proper maintenance extends its life and keeps it looking great.

• Wood Fences: Plan to clean, stain, or seal every 2-3 years. Inspect for loose boards, rot, or insect damage annually.
• Vinyl & Composite Fences: These require the least upkeep. A yearly wash with a garden hose or mild soap solution is usually sufficient to remove dirt and mildew.
• Metal Fences (Aluminum/Chain Link): Check for rust spots periodically, though aluminum is highly rust-resistant. Tighten any loose fittings or rails.
• General Care: Keep soil, mulch, and vegetation from constantly touching the fence boards to prevent moisture retention and decay. After heavy snowfalls, gently remove snow buildup if possible.

By choosing the right material for your needs and maintaining it properly, your new fence will serve as a functional and attractive part of your home for years to come ⁸.

Frequently asked questions

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