Retaining Wall Cost: What to Budget in the Lower Mainland
Retaining walls in the Lower Mainland typically cost $150–$400+ per linear foot. Here's what drives the number — from wall type and height to drainage, engineering, and permits.
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.
| Fence Type | Cost / Linear Ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Board-on-Board (6 ft) | $35 – $50 | Most popular. Full privacy, classic look. |
| Cedar Picket (4 ft) | $30 – $40 | Decorative, partial privacy. Front yards. |
| Corrugated Metal + Cedar Trim | $55 – $75 | Modern industrial. Our most requested custom design. |
| Chain Link (4–6 ft) | $25 – $35 | Most 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
We recommend talking to your neighbor before getting quotes. It avoids disputes and can cut your cost in half.
Every municipality in the Lower Mainland has fence height regulations. The most common limits:
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.
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:
When comparing fence installation quotes, make sure each one specifies:
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.
Retaining walls in the Lower Mainland typically cost $150–$400+ per linear foot. Here's what drives the number — from wall type and height to drainage, engineering, and permits.
Concrete driveway costs in the Lower Mainland typically range from $8–$18 per square foot. Here's what actually drives the price — and what most contractors won't break down for you.