Fence contractors in Utah - free quotes

Utah homeowners invest heavily in fencing. Subdivisions along the Wasatch Front often require fences for backyards, and the state’s family-friendly culture means lots of yards need containment for kids and pets. Whether you are building a cedar privacy fence in a new subdivision or replacing an aging chain link fence on an older property, finding the right contractor matters.

We connect Utah homeowners with local fence contractors who know the climate, soil conditions, and building codes. Get free quotes and compare before you hire.

Utah licensing requirements

Utah requires contractors performing work valued at more than $3,000 to hold an active license through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). Fence contractors typically need an S330 Fencing specialty license or work under a general contractor with a B100 General Building license.

Licensed contractors in Utah must carry general liability insurance and a surety bond. Workers’ compensation coverage is required for contractors with employees. Before hiring, verify your contractor’s license status at the DOPL website and ask for certificates of insurance.

For smaller fence projects under $3,000, Utah’s handyman exemption may apply, but the contractor still needs to register with DOPL. Regardless of project size, always confirm insurance coverage.

Average fence costs in Utah

Fence installation costs in Utah generally fall near or slightly below national averages. Labor rates along the Wasatch Front are competitive, and materials are readily available from local suppliers. Here are typical ranges:

For a deeper breakdown of privacy fence pricing, see our privacy fence cost guide.

Utah-specific cost factors

Several factors affect fencing costs in the Utah market:

• Soil conditions. Much of the Wasatch Front has clay-heavy soil that can be difficult to dig and contributes to post heaving in freeze-thaw cycles. Contractors need to set posts deep enough (minimum 36 inches) and may use concrete footings to prevent movement.
• HOA prevalence. Many Utah neighborhoods have HOAs with specific fencing requirements. Meeting HOA standards for material, height, and color can limit your options and affect cost.
• Elevation and wind. Properties at higher elevations or in wind-exposed areas need heavier-duty posts and hardware. Wind load is a real consideration for 6-foot privacy fences in areas like Draper, Alpine, and the benches above Salt Lake City.
• Seasonal demand. Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for Utah fence contractors. Scheduling in late winter or early fall may get you better pricing and faster service.

Popular fence types in Utah

Vinyl fences

Vinyl has become the dominant fence material in newer Utah subdivisions. It handles the state’s dry summers and cold, snowy winters without any maintenance. Many HOAs along the Wasatch Front require or prefer vinyl because of its uniform appearance and zero upkeep. White and tan are the most popular colors in Utah.

Cedar privacy fences

Cedar is the top wood choice for Utah homeowners who want a natural look. The dry climate is relatively kind to cedar, but the intense high-altitude UV still requires staining every two to three years. Cedar works well for homeowners who enjoy the warmth of real wood and do not mind the maintenance schedule.

Chain link fences

Chain link remains popular for pet containment, rural properties, and budget-conscious projects across Utah. It is especially common in older neighborhoods and on larger lots where the total footage makes privacy fencing cost-prohibitive. For more on chain link pricing and types, see our chain link fence guide.

Composite fences

Composite fencing is gaining traction in Utah. It combines the look of wood with the low maintenance of vinyl, making it a strong middle ground for homeowners who want natural aesthetics without the staining schedule.

Choosing a Utah fence contractor

Finding the right contractor starts with verifying credentials and asking the right questions. Utah’s licensing system through DOPL gives homeowners a reliable way to check that their contractor meets minimum competency standards.

For a detailed walkthrough of what to look for, what red flags to avoid, and what questions to ask, read our guide to choosing a fence contractor.

HOA considerations in Utah

Utah has one of the highest rates of HOA-governed communities in the country, especially in newer developments along the Wasatch Front. Common HOA fencing restrictions include:

• Material requirements. Many HOAs require vinyl only, prohibiting wood and chain link in visible areas.
• Height limits. HOAs often cap rear fences at 6 feet and side fences facing streets at 3 to 4 feet.
• Color restrictions. White, tan, and brown are the most commonly approved colors.
• No front yard fences. Many communities prohibit fences in front yards entirely.
• Pre-approval required. Most HOAs require architectural review before installation. The review process can take two to four weeks.

Submit your fence plans to your HOA before scheduling installation. Building without approval can result in fines and forced removal at your own expense. For more on navigating the permit process, see our fence permit requirements guide.

Cities we serve

• Fence contractors in Salt Lake City

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

FAQ

Do fence contractors need a license in Utah?

Yes. Utah requires fence contractors to hold an S330 Fencing license or work under a B100 General Building contractor license through DOPL. Verify any contractor’s license at the DOPL website before signing a contract.

Do I need a permit for a fence in Utah?

Permit requirements vary by city. Salt Lake City requires a permit for fences over 6 feet tall and for front-yard fences. Many other Wasatch Front cities have similar rules. Check with your local building department. Your contractor should handle the permit process.

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

Vinyl and cedar are the most popular choices. Vinyl handles Utah’s dry summers and freezing winters without any maintenance. Cedar naturally resists rot and looks great, but needs staining every two to three years. Pressure-treated pine is the budget option but requires more upkeep in Utah’s UV-intense climate. For a full comparison, see our vinyl vs wood fence guide.

How deep should fence posts be set in Utah?

Fence posts in Utah should be set at least 36 inches deep, which is below the frost line for most of the Wasatch Front. In clay-heavy soils, concrete footings are recommended to prevent heaving during freeze-thaw cycles. Some contractors set posts 42 inches deep in areas with particularly expansive clay.

How much does a privacy fence cost in Utah?

A standard 150-linear-foot wood privacy fence in Utah costs $2,250 to $5,700 installed. Vinyl privacy fencing for the same yard runs $3,000 to $7,800. Your total depends on material, fence height, terrain, and how many gates you need. See our privacy fence cost guide for detailed pricing.

What should I ask before hiring a Utah fence contractor?

Ask about their DOPL license number, liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, experience with your chosen material, post depth and footing method, how they handle slopes, whether they pull permits, and what their warranty covers. Read our full hiring guide for more questions to ask.