Fence Installation Cost in Portland (2026)

In Portland, you do not need a building permit for wood or similar material fences up to 7 feet tall in side or rear yards. However, front yard fences are strictly limited to 3.5 feet (42 inches) in height; exceeding this requires a permit and potentially a zoning appeal.

Western Red Cedar is the local standard due to its natural resistance to rot and insects in the wet Pacific Northwest. While it costs $30–$55 per linear foot installed, it typically lasts 15–25 years if stained every 2–3 years. Vinyl is a higher-cost alternative ($50–$90/ft) that requires less maintenance.

Contractors in the Portland metro area typically charge between $3 and $8 per linear foot for the demolition, hauling, and disposal of an existing fence. For a standard 150-foot lot, this adds approximately $450 to $1,200 to the total project cost.

Yes, Portland has 'clear vision' requirements for corner lots to ensure traffic safety. Fences within a 20-foot 'vision clearance triangle' at intersections are generally restricted to 3.5 feet in height to maintain visibility for drivers.