Fence installation in Portland, OR - free quotes from local pros

Portland homeowners value their outdoor spaces, and a quality fence defines how you use yours. Privacy from close neighbors in dense neighborhoods like Hawthorne, Alberta, and the Pearl District. Containment for dogs and kids in the suburbs of Beaverton, Lake Oswego, and Tigard. Wind protection for gardens and patios exposed to the Columbia Gorge winds on the east side. Whatever your reason, the quality of the installation determines how your fence performs for the next 15 to 25 years in Portland’s demanding climate.

We connect Portland homeowners with local fence contractors who know Pacific Northwest conditions and deliver solid work. The average Portland fence project costs $2,550 to $6,300 for a standard wood privacy fence. Get free quotes from local pros and compare before you hire.

Fence costs in Portland

Fence installation pricing in the Portland metro runs slightly above national averages due to higher labor rates and increased material costs for rot-resistant options suited to the wet climate.

What affects costs in Portland

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

• Tree roots. Portland’s mature urban canopy means many properties have extensive root systems that interfere with post hole digging. Hand digging, root cutting, or adjusting post locations adds labor time and cost. Properties near large Douglas firs, oaks, and maples are most affected.
• Soil conditions. Portland’s clay soil holds moisture and can shift seasonally, pushing posts out of alignment. Contractors should set posts in concrete footings at adequate depth (30 to 36 inches minimum) to resist soil movement.
• Lot size and shape. Portland lots vary significantly. Inner-city neighborhoods have compact lots with short fence runs, while suburban properties in Beaverton, Tigard, and Lake Oswego have larger yards requiring more linear footage.
• Slope. Portland has hilly terrain in many neighborhoods, including the West Hills, Alameda Ridge, and parts of Southeast. Stepped or racked fence panels for slopes add labor and material costs compared to flat installations.
• Moss and moisture treatment. Cedar fences in Portland develop moss without regular maintenance. Some homeowners opt for pre-stained or treated materials to reduce long-term upkeep, which adds to initial costs.

How it works

Getting fence quotes in Portland 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 Portland 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 Portland fence contractor

Licensing

Oregon requires all contractors to hold an active license through the Construction Contractors Board (CCB). Your fence contractor should be registered with the CCB and carry the required $20,000 surety bond and $500,000 general liability insurance.

Check license status at the Oregon CCB website. Enter the contractor’s name or license number to confirm they are in good standing and view any complaint history. Oregon’s CCB bond gives homeowners a direct avenue for recourse if a contractor performs defective work.

Insurance

Your contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage for their crew. Oregon’s CCB requirements include the surety bond, which provides an additional layer of homeowner protection. Ask for certificates of insurance and confirm coverage is current before work begins.

Questions to ask

Before hiring a fence contractor in Portland, ask:

• Are you licensed with the Oregon CCB? What is your license number?
• Do you carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
• How many fence projects have you completed in the Portland area this year?
• What post depth and footing method do you use in Portland’s clay soil?
• How do you handle slopes and grade changes?
• Do you address tree root conflicts during installation?
• What warranty do you offer on labor and materials?

Portland fencing considerations

Climate and materials

Portland’s wet climate is the single biggest factor in choosing fence materials. The city averages over 40 inches of rain per year, and humidity stays high through much of the fall, winter, and spring. Wood fences that are not properly maintained develop moss, mildew, and rot faster than in drier climates.

Western red cedar is the preferred wood species in Portland. It grows locally in the Pacific Northwest, resists rot naturally, and weathers to an attractive silver-gray. Staining or sealing every two to three years keeps cedar looking fresh and extends its lifespan beyond 20 years.

Vinyl fencing has gained significant popularity in the Portland market because it requires zero maintenance in the rain. It will not rot, develop moss, or need staining. The higher upfront cost is offset by decades of maintenance savings.

Soil and post depth

Portland’s clay-rich soil presents challenges for fence post stability. Clay absorbs water and expands during the wet season, then contracts during summer dry spells. This cycle pushes fence posts out of plumb over time if they are not properly set.

Standard practice in Portland is to set posts at least 30 to 36 inches deep in concrete footings. In areas with particularly heavy clay or on slopes, contractors may set posts deeper. Gravel drainage at the bottom of each post hole helps prevent water from pooling around the post base.

Zoning and regulations

Portland’s fencing regulations are relatively straightforward:

• Rear and side yard fences can be up to 6 feet tall in most residential zones
• Front yard fences are limited to 3.5 feet in most residential zones
• Corner lots have sight-distance requirements at intersections
• Fences in overlay zones (historic districts, environmental zones) may have additional restrictions

Most residential fence projects in Portland do not require a building permit as long as the fence is under 7 feet tall. However, you are responsible for ensuring the fence meets setback and height requirements. Contact the Portland Bureau of Development Services if you have questions about your specific property.

Popular fence styles in Portland

Western red cedar fences

Western red cedar is the clear favorite in Portland. It grows locally in the Pacific Northwest, naturally resists rot, and weathers to an attractive silver-gray. Staining every two to three years extends its lifespan beyond 20 years. For a comparison of wood and vinyl costs, see our vinyl vs wood fence guide.

Vinyl privacy fences

Vinyl is growing fast in the Portland market because it requires zero maintenance in the rain. It will not develop moss, mildew, or rot. The higher upfront cost is offset by decades of zero maintenance. See our privacy fence cost guide for detailed pricing.

Chain link fences

Chain link is practical for pet containment, garden boundaries, and large Portland lots. Vinyl-coated chain link in green or black blends with Portland’s lush landscape. See our chain link fence guide for more options.

Fence permits in Portland

Portland does not require a building permit for most residential fences under 7 feet tall, but you are responsible for meeting setback and height requirements. Fences in overlay zones (historic districts, environmental zones) may have additional restrictions. For a complete overview, see our fence permit requirements guide.

For help evaluating Portland fence contractors, read our guide to choosing a fence contractor.

Related services in Portland

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

• Concrete contractors in Portland
• Insulation contractors in Portland

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

Browse all fencing services in Oregon or learn more about fence options and costs.