Fence contractors in Tennessee - free quotes

Tennessee homeowners invest in fencing for privacy, security, and curb appeal. The state’s rapid growth, particularly in the Nashville metro, means new subdivisions with fencing requirements and older neighborhoods where aging fences need replacement. Whether you want a cedar privacy fence in Brentwood or a vinyl fence in a Knoxville subdivision, the right contractor makes all the difference.

We connect Tennessee homeowners with local fence contractors who understand area conditions, HOA rules, and building codes. Get free quotes and compare before you hire.

Tennessee licensing requirements

The Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors requires a home improvement license (HI classification) for residential projects valued at $25,000 or more, including materials and labor. Most residential fence projects fall below this threshold, but contractors must still register with the state.

Regardless of project size, always confirm your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify they are current. Tennessee does not require a surety bond for all contractors, so insurance verification is especially important.

Average fence costs in Tennessee

Fence installation costs in Tennessee generally fall near or slightly below national averages. Material availability is good, and labor rates across the state are competitive. Here are typical ranges:

For detailed pricing by material and yard size, see our privacy fence cost guide.

Tennessee-specific cost factors

Several factors affect fencing costs in the Tennessee market:

• Limestone bedrock. Middle Tennessee sits on limestone that can make digging post holes difficult and expensive. Contractors may need augers or rock-breaking equipment, adding to labor costs.
• Clay soils. Parts of East and West Tennessee have heavy clay that shifts with moisture changes. Posts need to be set deep enough with concrete footings to resist movement.
• Storm exposure. Tennessee experiences severe thunderstorms, high winds, and occasional tornadoes. Fences need sturdy construction with properly braced posts and hardware rated for wind loads.
• Seasonal demand. Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for Tennessee fence contractors. Scheduling in late fall or winter may get you better pricing.

Popular fence types in Tennessee

Cedar privacy fences

Cedar is the top wood choice for Tennessee homeowners. It naturally resists rot and insects, both important in Tennessee’s humid climate. Cedar ages gracefully and provides a warm, natural appearance that fits well with Tennessee’s residential neighborhoods. Staining every two to three years keeps cedar looking its best.

Vinyl fences

Vinyl has become the fastest-growing fence material in Tennessee, especially in Nashville’s booming suburbs. It handles the humidity, heavy rains, and temperature swings without any maintenance. Many Williamson County and Rutherford County HOAs now require or prefer vinyl. For a full comparison of these two popular choices, see our vinyl vs wood fence guide.

Pressure-treated pine fences

Pressure-treated pine is the budget-friendly option and widely available across Tennessee. The treatment protects against moisture and insects, but the wood still needs staining every two to three years in Tennessee’s humid conditions to maintain its appearance.

Aluminum ornamental fences

Aluminum is popular for front yards and pool enclosures in Tennessee’s upscale neighborhoods. It provides an elegant look without maintenance and resists rust in the humid air. Aluminum works especially well in historic neighborhoods like Germantown and East Nashville where a wrought-iron look complements the architecture.

Chain link fences

Chain link remains practical for large properties, pet containment, and utility areas across Tennessee. It is the most affordable option and handles the state’s occasional severe weather well because wind passes through the mesh. See our chain link fence guide for more detail.

Choosing a Tennessee fence contractor

Since most residential fence projects fall below the $25,000 licensing threshold in Tennessee, focus on insurance verification, references, and the contractor’s experience with local soil conditions. Nashville contractors should know how to handle limestone bedrock. East Tennessee contractors should be experienced with clay soils.

For a full walkthrough of the hiring process, read our guide to choosing a fence contractor.

HOA considerations in Tennessee

Tennessee’s fast-growing suburbs, particularly in the Nashville metro and Williamson County, have a high concentration of HOA communities. Common HOA fencing restrictions include:

• Material requirements. Many HOAs require vinyl or aluminum, with wood allowed in some communities and chain link prohibited in visible areas.
• Color palettes. White, tan, and earth tones are the most commonly approved. Some Nashville-area HOAs require fencing to complement the home’s exterior color.
• Height limits. Rear fences typically capped at 6 feet, with front and street-facing side fences limited to 3 to 4 feet.
• Historic district rules. Parts of Nashville (East Nashville, Germantown, 12 South) have historic overlay districts with additional design requirements for fencing.
• Pre-approval required. Most HOAs require architectural review. Allow two to four weeks for the process.

Submit fence plans to your HOA before scheduling work. For more on permits and regulations, see our fence permit requirements guide.

Cities we serve

• Fence contractors in Nashville

More Tennessee cities coming soon. Get a free quote for your fence project anywhere in Tennessee.

FAQ

Do fence contractors need a license in Tennessee?

Tennessee requires a home improvement license for projects valued at $25,000 or more. Most residential fence projects fall below this threshold. However, all contractors must register with the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. Verify registration and ask for proof of insurance before hiring.

Do I need a permit for a fence in Tennessee?

Permit requirements vary by city and county. Nashville requires a permit for fences in most cases. Other Tennessee cities have similar rules, often requiring permits for fences over a certain height or in front yards. Check with your local building department. Your contractor should handle the permit process.

What is the best fence material for Tennessee’s climate?

Cedar and vinyl are the top choices. Cedar naturally resists rot and performs well in Tennessee’s humid climate, but needs staining every two to three years. Vinyl handles humidity, rain, and temperature swings without any maintenance. Pressure-treated pine is the budget option but requires more upkeep. See our vinyl vs wood comparison for more detail.

How deep should fence posts be set in Tennessee?

Fence posts in Tennessee should be set at least 30 to 36 inches deep, which is below the frost line for most of the state. In areas with limestone bedrock, contractors may need to anchor posts with specialized brackets rather than digging to full depth. Concrete footings are recommended in clay soils to prevent shifting.

How much does a privacy fence cost in Tennessee?

A standard 150-linear-foot wood privacy fence in Tennessee costs $2,250 to $5,700 installed. Vinyl privacy fencing runs $3,000 to $7,800. Nashville metro prices are competitive with national averages. See our privacy fence cost guide for more detail.

What if my contractor hits limestone when digging post holes?

Limestone bedrock is common in Middle Tennessee, sometimes as shallow as 12 to 18 inches below the surface. Experienced contractors handle this by using specialized augers, rock-breaking equipment, or post brackets that anchor to the rock surface. Discuss this possibility before hiring, and make sure your contractor has dealt with limestone in your area before.