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If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fence material, corrugated metal could be the answer. Metal fences cost about $7 to $32 per foot. Aluminum corrugated metal tends to be less expensive than steel. Both options are similar in cost to wood, so, depending on the type of wood you are considering, corrugated metal could be better for your budget.

Whether you need a permit to build or install a fence depends on several factors, including your location, the fence's height, its placement in your yard, and the materials used. In many cities and highly populated areas, a permit is required, especially for fences taller than 6 feet. Conversely, rural areas may have fewer restrictions. Typically, backyard privacy fences 6 feet or shorter do not require a permit, while front yard fences often have a lower height limit, sometimes as low as 3.5 feet. There can also be exceptions for properties in mixed residential-commercial zones. It's best to check with your local building inspection or zoning department to understand the specific requirements, height restrictions, and location rules for your area. A professional fence installer can help you navigate this process and often secure the necessary permits for you, though this may extend the project timeline.

The recommended height for a garden fence depends on its primary purpose. For pest control, the necessary height varies by animal. To keep out small pests like rabbits, a fence should be at least two to three feet tall. If you live in an area with deer, you will need a much taller fence, at least five feet high, to prevent them from jumping over. If the main goal is privacy, the fence should be at least seven feet tall. For purely decorative fences, the height is a matter of personal preference.

Retaining walls offer more value to a home if they also divert water, prevent erosion, or help support a foundation. The ROI of a retaining wall is between 100% and 200%.

Both fences and walls can increase your home’s value, but you’ll spend significantly more on a wall than you would on a fence. A stone wall costs approximately $5,000, a retaining wall costs $6,100, and a fence costs $3,200 on average to put prices in perspective.