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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.

Installing an aluminum fence typically takes one to three days, depending on the fence's size, layout complexity, and site conditions. Simple, straight-line installations may take just a day, while larger or more intricate designs with slopes or obstacles can extend the timeline. Professional contractors often complete the job faster than DIY installations.

The lifespan of a fence can range from 5 to 50 years, depending heavily on the material, local climate, and how well it is maintained. For example, a wooden fence might last 7 to 15 years, while a vinyl fence typically lasts 20 to 30 years. Metal, composite, and glass fences have some of the longest lifespans. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning, inspections, and staining or sealing for wood, is key to extending the life of any fence material. Vinyl and composite are durable options that don't require sealing.

Fence pickets typically face out (away from your home or the garden that you're enclosing). Both the rails and pickets sit on the outside of a fence so that anyone passing by can see the finished side. Not only does the look increase your curb appeal, but it's also the neighborly thing to do when placing a barrier between two properties, even when you're installing a privacy fence.