Fence installation in Raleigh, NC - free quotes from local pros

Raleigh homeowners invest in quality fencing for plenty of reasons. Privacy from neighbors in growing subdivisions across Cary, Apex, and Holly Springs. Containment for kids and pets in established neighborhoods like North Hills and Cameron Village. Curb appeal in communities where a well-maintained fence adds real value.

Whatever your reason, the quality of the installation determines how your fence looks and performs for the next 15 to 25 years. We connect Raleigh homeowners with local fence contractors who know Triangle conditions and deliver solid work.

The average Raleigh fence project costs $2,250 to $5,700 for a standard wood privacy fence. Get free quotes from local pros and compare before you hire.

Fence costs in Raleigh

Fence installation pricing in the Raleigh metro falls near or slightly below national averages. Here is what Triangle homeowners can expect to pay.

What affects costs in Raleigh

Several factors specific to the Raleigh market influence your fence project cost:

• Red clay soil. The Triangle’s Piedmont red clay is heavy and sticky when wet, hard and compacted when dry. Digging post holes takes longer and may require specialized equipment. Contractors need to set posts deep enough with concrete footings to prevent shifting as the clay expands and contracts with moisture changes.
• Lot size and shape. Raleigh lots vary considerably. Older neighborhoods near downtown have smaller, irregularly shaped lots, while newer developments in Apex, Holly Springs, and Wake Forest feature larger, more uniform yards that require more linear footage.
• HOA requirements. Many Raleigh-area subdivisions, particularly in Cary, Apex, Fuquay-Varina, and Holly Springs, have HOAs that dictate fence material, height, and color. Meeting HOA specs may limit your choices and affect pricing.
• Tree roots and utilities. Raleigh’s mature tree canopy, especially in established neighborhoods like Oakwood, Boylan Heights, and Five Points, means fence lines often encounter large root systems. Underground utilities are also a consideration on any Raleigh property. Your contractor should call 811 before digging.

How it works

Getting fence quotes in Raleigh is straightforward:

1. Describe your project. Tell us about your property, the type of fence you want, and your timeline.
2. Get matched with local pros. We connect you with up to three fence contractors in the Raleigh area.
3. Compare quotes and hire. Review estimates, ask questions, and choose the contractor that fits your budget and schedule.

There is no cost and no obligation. You are free to compare and decide on your own terms.

What to look for in a Raleigh fence contractor

Licensing

North Carolina requires contractors performing work valued at $30,000 or more to hold a general contractor license through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC). Most residential fence projects fall below this threshold, so a state license may not be required.

Regardless of project size, your contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. The City of Raleigh requires a building permit for most fence installations, so confirm your contractor is familiar with Raleigh’s permitting process and will handle it for you.

You can verify license status at the NCLBGC website.

Insurance

Your contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for certificates of insurance and confirm they are current. This protects you if a worker is injured on your property or if the fence encroaches on a neighbor’s land. North Carolina law requires licensed general contractors to maintain minimum insurance levels.

Questions to ask

Before hiring a fence contractor in Raleigh, ask:

• Do you carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
• Are you licensed with the NCLBGC (for projects over $30,000)?
• How many fence projects have you completed in the Raleigh area this year?
• What post depth and footing method do you use in our red clay soil?
• How do you handle slopes and grade changes?
• Will you handle the Raleigh building permit?
• What warranty do you offer on labor and materials?

Raleigh fencing considerations

Climate and materials

Raleigh’s climate is defined by hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional freezes. Average summer highs reach the low 90s, and humidity stays elevated from May through September. This combination accelerates rot and mold growth on untreated wood and puts extra demand on all fencing materials.

Cedar is a popular wood choice for Raleigh because of its natural rot and insect resistance, but it still needs staining every two to three years to maintain its appearance in the Triangle’s humidity. Pressure-treated pine is the budget-friendly option and handles moisture reasonably well, but requires regular maintenance.

Vinyl fencing has become the dominant choice in newer Raleigh subdivisions. It handles the humidity, heat, and occasional ice storms without any maintenance. Vinyl will not rot, warp, or need painting.

Soil and post depth

The Triangle’s red clay soil expands when wet and contracts during dry periods. This seasonal movement can push fence posts out of alignment if they are not properly set. Standard practice in the Raleigh area is to set posts at least 30 inches deep in concrete footings. Some contractors go deeper in areas with particularly heavy clay or on properties with drainage issues.

Raleigh’s frost line is relatively shallow (around 12 inches), but deeper post holes provide better stability against the clay’s movement. Your contractor should assess your specific soil conditions before setting post depths.

Permit and HOA rules

The City of Raleigh requires building permits for most fence installations. Key requirements include:

• Front yard fences limited to 42 inches in height
• Side and rear yard fences allowed up to 8 feet
• Corner lots have sight-triangle restrictions at intersections
• Setback requirements vary by zoning district
• Pool enclosure fences must meet specific safety requirements

Many Raleigh-area neighborhoods have HOAs with additional restrictions. Common HOA rules in Triangle communities include:

• Vinyl or aluminum only (no wood or chain link) in some subdivisions
• Maximum height of 6 feet for rear fences
• Specific color requirements (white, tan, or earth tones)
• Pre-approval required before installation

Check with both the City of Raleigh Development Services and your HOA (if applicable) before starting your project. Your contractor should be familiar with local requirements.

Popular fence styles in Raleigh

Vinyl privacy fences

Vinyl dominates newer Triangle subdivisions, especially in Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Wake Forest. It handles Raleigh’s hot, humid summers and occasional ice storms without maintenance. Many Triangle HOAs now require vinyl. For a comparison, see our vinyl vs wood fence guide.

Cedar privacy fences

Cedar is the preferred wood for Raleigh homeowners who want a natural look. It naturally resists rot and insects, both important traits in the Triangle’s humid climate. See our privacy fence cost guide for detailed cedar pricing.

Chain link fences

Chain link is practical for large properties, rural lots, and budget-conscious Triangle projects. See our chain link fence guide for types and pricing.

Fence permits in Raleigh

The City of Raleigh requires building permits for most fence installations. For a complete overview of the permit process, see our fence permit requirements guide. For help evaluating contractors, read our guide to choosing a fence contractor.

Related services in Raleigh

Planning a bigger outdoor project? We also connect homeowners with contractors for:

• Concrete contractors in Raleigh
• Insulation contractors in Raleigh

A new fence paired with a concrete patio creates a complete private backyard space. Many Raleigh homeowners combine these projects to save on contractor mobilization costs.

Explore fence services across North Carolina or learn more about fencing options nationwide.