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Cost Guide7 min read

Fence Installation Cost in BC: Privacy, Cedar & Metal Options

By CarverMarch 12, 2026

Fence installation in BC's Lower Mainland typically costs between $30 and $85+ per linear foot, depending on the material, height, terrain, and whether you're replacing an existing fence or installing new. For a standard 100 linear foot property line, that puts the total between $3,000 and $8,500+.

The range is wide because "fence" covers everything from a basic 4-foot cedar picket to a 6-foot corrugated metal privacy fence with concrete post footings and custom trim. The material is only part of the story — terrain, access, old fence removal, and municipal bylaws all affect the final number.

Cost by Fence Type

Fence TypeCost / Linear FtNotes
Cedar Board-on-Board (6 ft)$35 – $50Most popular. Full privacy, classic look.
Cedar Picket (4 ft)$30 – $40Decorative, partial privacy. Front yards.
Corrugated Metal + Cedar Trim$55 – $75Modern industrial. Our most requested custom design.
Chain Link (4–6 ft)$25 – $35Most economical. Utility and perimeter.
Custom / Architectural$65 – $85+Horizontal slat, mixed materials, lighting integration.

Disclaimer: The figures above are based on Lower Mainland averages and are intended for educational purposes only. Actual costs vary on a job-to-job basis as material markets move, supply and demand shift, and municipal bylaws change. A free on-site consultation is the only way to get an accurate estimate for your specific project.

What Drives Fence Installation Cost

Old Fence Removal

Replacing an existing fence means removing and disposing of the old one first. Rotted posts set in concrete are the most labor-intensive to remove — the concrete footings need to come out too, which often means digging. If the old fence has been painted or treated, disposal costs may be higher.

Post Installation Method

How posts are set determines the fence's lifespan. Options range from driven posts (fastest, least durable) to concrete footings (most labor, longest lasting). For privacy fences in the Lower Mainland, concrete post footings are standard — the soil stays wet most of the year, and posts without concrete footings lean and rot faster.

Terrain & Grade Changes

A flat lot with good access is the simplest install. Sloped terrain requires either stepping (each panel at a different height) or racking (panels that follow the slope). Both add labor. Rocky soil, tree roots, and limited access all increase the per-foot cost.

Gates & Hardware

Every gate is custom-built to match the fence style and fit the opening. Pedestrian gates are straightforward. Double gates for vehicle access need heavier posts, stronger hardware, and often a concrete pad underneath. Gate hardware quality matters — cheap hinges and latches are the first thing to fail.

Who Pays for a Shared Fence in BC?

Under BC law, if a fence sits on or near the property line, both neighbors may share the cost of a "good and sufficient" fence. But "good and sufficient" is subjective — it means a standard fence for the area, not necessarily the style or material you want.

In practice, cost-sharing depends on your situation:

  • If both neighbors agree on the style and placement, costs are typically split 50/50
  • If you want an upgrade beyond "good and sufficient," you generally cover the difference
  • If the fence is entirely on your property (setback from the line), it's your cost entirely
  • Strata properties often have their own fence rules — check your bylaws first

We recommend talking to your neighbor before getting quotes. It avoids disputes and can cut your cost in half.

Height Limits & Municipal Bylaws

Every municipality in the Lower Mainland has fence height regulations. The most common limits:

  • Front yard — typically 4 feet maximum (some cities allow 3.5 ft)
  • Side and rear yard — typically 6 feet maximum
  • Corner lots — reduced height near intersections for sight lines
  • Retaining wall + fence combos — the combined height often has a separate limit

Going over the height limit requires a variance — which means a city application, fees, and potentially a neighborhood notification process. We check your specific municipal bylaws before quoting so you know exactly what's allowed.

Material Longevity in the Lower Mainland

Our climate is tough on fences. Heavy rain, moss, and limited drying periods mean wood fences need to be built with materials that handle moisture:

  • Western red cedar — naturally rot-resistant, the standard for the Lower Mainland. 15–25 year lifespan with maintenance.
  • Pressure-treated — more economical but requires staining to look good. 10–15 years typical.
  • Corrugated metal panels — zero rot issues, modern aesthetic. Metal with cedar trim is our most popular custom option.
  • Composite — won't rot but costs significantly more upfront. Makes sense for specific applications.

What to Look for in a Fence Quote

When comparing fence installation quotes, make sure each one specifies:

  • Material grade — cedar grade (STK vs. clear), metal gauge, hardware quality
  • Post spacing and installation method — concrete footings vs. driven
  • Old fence removal and disposal — included or extra?
  • Number and type of gates — pedestrian, double, self-closing
  • Property line confirmation — is a survey included or your responsibility?
  • Permits — needed for front yard fences or over-height requests
  • Stain or finish — is it included, or bare wood only?

The difference between a fence that lasts 8 years and one that lasts 20 comes down to post installation, material grade, and proper construction. A detailed quote tells you exactly what you're getting.