Should you attempt a do it yourself fence?

​Are you thinking of installing your own fence?  If so, there are some considerations that you'll want to take into account before diving into the project.  In the guide below, we cover some of the things you'll want to consider before beginning a fence installation in Columbus, Ohio.

In order to adequately install a DIY fence, you will also need to have the proper tools.  Some of the required equipment for a DIY fence project includes Protective safety glasses, a mason's line, hand saw, tape measure, claw hammer, level, and post hole digger. Fortunately, these tools can all be purchased or rented from a local hardware store. ​

In Columbus, Ohio, installing a fence that is less than 6 feet tall is not considered a regulated structure and can be constructed in your backyard without a permit. If the fence you are looking to install is over 6 feet in height, there are additional requirements that you must follow, and a building permit is necessary.  

When it comes to residential fences, you should also be aware of some additional considerations when installing a fence in a side or front yard. If you have any questions or concerns about what is or is not allowed, we recommend reaching out to a professional fencing company. They will do the necessary research and pull all required permits to avoid any costly changes or fines down the road.  

Please be aware that this information only concerns the City of Columbus, and it is not inclusive of requirements for other areas in the Columbus Metro Area. We do not represent the City of Columbus; however, this guide was up to date when posted in July 2021.

As of the time of writing this article, you can obtain a building permit from the Building and Zoning Services at the City of Columbus.

You can also contact them at:
Building and Zoning Services
111 North Front Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Office: (614) 645-7433
​Fax: (614) 645-0082

We make every effort to keep this article updated, but some links or phone numbers may be out of date.

If you decide to install your own fence, one of the most important things you need to do is call before you dig.  Ohio811 is a free service that coordinates with local utility companies to come out and mark your lawn to indicate where any buried cables or lines may be on your property. As of the time of writing this guide, they offered both a call-in option and an option to submit a request online.  ​

If you decide that a DIY fence project isn't right for you, reach out to your local fence company to let us estimate the job for you. We'll ensure the project stays on track, follows all necessary laws, and has all of the required permits. We will take the hassle out of your fencing project at Columbus Fence Co! ​

It can be built as part of the architecture so that it blends nearly seamlessly into the flow of the building's design, even adding to the surroundings. Here are a few good reasons why it might be a good idea to add a fence to your commercial property

A fence around your business is one of the first things that keep criminals out. Most people who have trouble on their minds will stop at a lock or barrier of some kind. The hardcore criminals are not apt to be stopped by a fence, and they will probably find a way in, regardless. With sanctions in place, they won't do it again. If you choose to work with a professional fencing contractor, they will be sure to check with your city's building permit office for guidance on what type of fence you can use to secure your commercial property. ​

at at Especially if your business is located on a corner, a fence around your property will alleviate traffic sneaking through your parking lot as a shortcut. It would also cut down on bicycles, motorcycles, and skateboards taking shortcuts through your property. If you are near a residential area, a fence will help keep kids from trespassing through your grounds. If your property is landscaped, you likely don't want foot traffic making pathways across the grass where they are not intended.

Fencing your commercial property can have pros and cons. If you own a construction company down a dirt road outside of town, you will have your own set of reasons for wanting a fence.

Your reasons might be different if you own a flower shop in the heart of a bustling city, but you also want it to blend with the architecture. Researching what others in your town in your situation have done can help find the right answer for your business.  If you reside in Columbus, Ohio, or the surrounding area and are interested in learning more about your commercial fencing options, reach out to Columbus Fence Co at (614) 569-4171 today!

​If you've ever wondered or asked, how much will fence installation cost, or how much will fence repair cost, then you're not alone!  Installing or repairing a fence can be a significant investment that one should not take lightly.  Many different factors go into an estimate for fencing, such as materials, labor, overhead, profit margin, and taxes.  

Materials are the most considerable expense, making up a significant portion of the total.  The style of fence chosen has a significant impact on the Material cost.  A vinyl fence, aluminum fence, or wrought-iron fence have some of the highest price tags ranging from $20-35 per foot. On the other hand, a chain-link fence will range from $10-15 per foot.  But with the variability in cost, there is a give-and-take of overall curb appeal, longevity, and long-term maintenance and upkeep commitment.  Labor will include any payroll, benefits, and other human capital costs incurred during the fence installation process and will vary based on the size of the yard, the length of the project, and the terrain of the yard or property, such as slopes or waving surfaces all impact pricing as these will all impact the time it takes to successfully completer the project

The overhead expense covers the cost of rent, utilities, trucks, equipment, and other tools necessary to complete the fencing project.  This expense is what is required for your favorite fencing company to keep the lights on and keep answering the phone to help you through your fence installation and fence repair projects.  Much like overheard, Columbus Fence Co, or any other fencing company near me needs to make a profit to sustain the business and to continue to grow and prosper.  Columbus Fence Co is very conscious of how expensive fencing costs can be and makes every effort to provide the most exceptional value and service for the fence installation cost

When deciding whether or not you should install a fence on your property there are a few things to consider.  What type of fence do you want, what purpose do you want the fence to serve, what is your budget.

Some of the most common reasons people chose to install a fence include:

• Privacy

If you notice that your neighbor can see what you are doing while in your backyard, then it is time you install a fence. Everyone values their privacy, and they wouldn't want to be bothered by their nosy neighbors. Fencing will offer your family and friends privacy, so you can have that summer barbecue and enjoy the pool in peace.

• Safety

You wouldn't want your pets and small children wandering off and getting lost. For the security and safety of your family and your peace of mind, install a fence. Pool fencing is also important because when you are not around, you won't have to worry about young ones falling in by accident. If you do not have a fence around your property, pool fencing will ensure that intruders do not use your swimming pool without your permission.

• Home Value

Professional fence installation Columbus Ohio will increase the value of your property in case you put it up for sale. A well maintained and high-quality fence will also add aesthetic value to your home and is an investment you can be proud of for years to come.


There are many different types of fencing available on the market and trying to decide which fence you should install on your property can be challenging. It is therefore vital to consider the pros and cons of each type of fencing before you settle on a particular style.

• There are many options of wood to choose from, depending on the look you desire. You can paint or stain the wood to suit your style. A wood privacy fence can be constructed for more safety and security, or you can install a quaint picket fence that won't offer the same level of privacy but provides great curb appeal to your property. Wood fencing does require regular maintenance. You need to stain the wood fencing regularly to extend its life, a task that can be time-consuming and costly, especially if your fence is large. In a wet climate, wood fencing can rot or warp. 

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• Chain link fences require little maintenance after installation and they are inexpensive. If you have a large property and your budget is low, then chain link fence installation Columbus is the best option. However, chain link fences serve a particular purpose, so they usually lack curb appeal. They will not offer you privacy or maximum security because someone can easily climb them. 

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• Vinyl fencing is durable as it does not rot or rust and requires little maintenance. Even though vinyl fencing is costly, its durability will ensure it costs less in the long run. However, a vinyl fence can crack if you expose it to very high temperatures for long.  This type of fencing requires little maintenance, and it is durable. There is a wide variety of colors and styles that will suit your preferences.

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• Aluminum fencing is expensive, but its durability and the little maintenance it requires will cost less in the long run. It is the best option if you are looking to fence a large property in sloped terrain.  Aluminum fencing is also a great option for securing your pool.

A fence is one of the most essential investments for your home, and that is why you need to ensure that the right people install it. Getting a professional to install your fence will ensure you get the right value for your money, and that you get a fence that will serve you for years.​  Contact Columbus Fence Co today to discuss installing or repairing your fence!