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Privacy fences in residential neighborhoods tend to stand between 6 and 8 feet tall, but local building code usually dictates the maximum height. Livestock fences that border large land plots range from 3 to 6 feet. Shorter, decorative fences, which are common in front yards, are around 3 feet tall, on average. Fence height also tends to vary by material, with wood fences usually sitting at 6 feet tall, and chain-link and wrought iron fences tending to sit at half that.

In most cases, wrought iron fencing will cause your property value to increase. Most types of fence—but especially high-quality wrought iron fences—make your home more secure and deter burglars, which adds to property value. Fences can also help keep children and pets safe, which most homebuyers will appreciate. Wrought iron fences are also highly decorative, and while they don’t provide much privacy, they do add to your home’s curb appeal, which often leads to higher home value.

In most cases, you will need a building permit to put up a vinyl fence, especially if the fence is sitting on or close to your property line. You can ask your local building department or  fence installation company if your fence project will require a permit. If so, you can expect it to cost between $20 and $60. Your fence installer should pull the permit for you. Building without a permit could eventually require you to pay again to remove the fence and reinstall it after getting the job approved.

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.