Warminster Fence Company

Okay, if you're looking to put up a fence in Warminster Township, PA, you're probably wondering what it's going to set you back. The truth is, prices can be all over the map, but let's break down what goes into the cost and some general numbers to give you an idea.

What Drives the Cost of a New Fence?

Just like with most home projects, a few key things will swing the final price for your fence installation:

• How much fence are we talking about? The overall length of your fence is a primary driver. Most quotes will break down costs per linear foot.

• Material matters (a lot!): This is often the biggest variable.

  • Chain Link: Generally your most wallet-friendly choice. Good for basic containment.

  • Wood: Super popular, with a wide price range depending on if you go for something like pressure-treated pine or a pricier cedar, and the style (picket vs. privacy).

  • Vinyl (PVC): A bit more upfront than some wood, but folks love it because it's super low-maintenance.

  • Aluminum: Gives you that classic wrought iron look without the rust and often for less cash.

  • Composite: Looks like wood but lasts a long time with minimal fuss. Can be one of the more expensive options.

• Height and Style: Taller fences mean more materials and usually more labor. Fancy designs, decorative post caps, or lattice tops will also bump up the cost compared to a straightforward style.

• Gates: Need a way in and out? Each gate adds to the project cost, depending on its size, material, and the hardware you choose.

• Your Yard's Quirks: If your property is hilly, has tough, rocky soil, or needs a lot of clearing where the fence will go, expect labor costs to be higher.

• Labor Rates: Who you hire makes a difference. Experienced contractors might charge more, but good work is often worth it.

• Permit from the Township: Warminster Township requires a permit for fence installations. Based on available information, this looks to be around $74.16. However, fee schedules can change, so it's always smart to double-check the current fee with the Warminster Township Department of Licenses & Inspections before you start.

• Dealing with an Old Fence: If you've got an old fence that needs to be torn down and hauled away, that'll be an extra charge.

Ballpark Figures for Fence Installation in Warminster

Remember, these are just estimates to give you a starting point! For the Warminster area and Bucks County, you might see costs in these general ranges:

• Overall Typical Project: Many fence installations for an average-sized yard could fall between $1,760 and $4,500. Some projects, especially larger ones or those using premium materials, can certainly go higher, as seen in some local examples where vinyl fence jobs ranged from around $3,400 to over $14,000 depending on the specifics.

Here's a rough idea by material, often quoted per linear foot (including installation):

• Chain Link: Could be anywhere from $8 to $40 per linear foot. A more common range might be $10 to $20 per linear foot.

• Wood: Expect $20 to $50+ per linear foot. For a standard wood privacy fence, some estimates put it in the $32 to $51 per linear foot range.

• Vinyl (PVC): Often runs $15 to $45 per linear foot, though high-end styles or complex installations can push this higher. Some data for Pennsylvania suggests an average of $20-$45 per linear foot.

• Aluminum: This typically ranges from $22 to $72 per linear foot installed.

Okay, if you're planning to put up a fence in Warminster Township, PA, you'll need to know the local rules. Getting it right means a smoother project and no headaches later. Here’s a rundown of what Warminster Township expects:

Getting Started: Permits and Plans

• Yes, You Need a Permit: First, pretty much any fence you plan to build needs a permit. You'll get this from the Warminster Township Department of Licenses and Inspections (sometimes also referred to as the Zoning Office) before you start any work.

• Show Them Your Plan: When you apply for that permit, you must include a plot plan. This drawing should clearly show your lot, any existing buildings, and exactly where your new fence will go. You’ll also need to specify the fence type you plan to install.

How High Can You Go? Height Limits

Warminster has different height rules depending on where the fence is on your property:

• Side and Rear Yards: In residential areas, fences in your side or rear yards can generally be up to six (6) feet tall.

• Front Yards: If the fence is in your front yard (meaning anywhere in front of your house's main building line), the general limit is four (4) feet high.

  • There's a specific note that if you're putting an "open-lot-type" fence (like a split-rail fence) in a required front yard, it shouldn't be more than three and a half (3.5) feet high.

• Corner Lots & Visibility: Safety first! If your property is on a corner, any fence, wall, or even dense planting within the "clear sight triangle" (think of the triangle of land at the intersection) can't be more than three (3) feet above curb level. This ensures drivers can see oncoming traffic. This triangle generally extends 75 feet back from the intersection of the street lines.

• On Top of Retaining Walls: If your fence is going on top of a retaining wall, the combined height of the wall and the fence is what counts. It's measured from the ground level on the lowest side of that wall/fence combo.

• Tennis Anyone? If you're fencing a tennis court, you can go up to ten (10) feet high, but the fence needs to be at least twenty (20) feet away from any property line.

Where Can (and Can't) It Go? Location Rules

• Keep It On Your Property: Your fence has to be built entirely within your own property lines. It can't be in the public right-of-way.

• Mind the Drainage: Super important – your fence can't block natural water drainage. Also, you can't put fences in any drainage easement, swale, or drainage right-of-way.

Building It Right: Construction and Materials

• Good Side Out: The finished side of your fence (the "good side") must face your neighbor's property or any street it runs along. This means your posts and any structural supports should be on your side, facing inward.

• What's Not Allowed (Residential): In residential districts, you absolutely cannot use barbed wire, razor wire, or any kind of electric fence.

  • (For other districts, barbed wire is only an option if it's at least six feet off the ground.)

• Living Fences Count Too: If you're thinking of planting a hedge or a row of shrubs to act as a fence, just know that these "living fences" have to follow all the same height and location rules as built ones.

Special Cases: Pools and Maintenance

• Pool Safety: If you have a swimming pool, it must be fenced. The fence needs to be at least four (4) feet high, and any gates have to be self-closing and self-latching. The openings in the fence can't be big enough for a four-inch sphere to pass through. This generally follows state building code requirements for pools.

• Keep It Up: Once your fence is up, you're responsible for keeping it in good condition. Unsafe or hazardous fences aren't allowed.

Before You Dig:

• Don't forget this statewide rule: Call 811 ("PA One Call") at least three working days before you start digging. They'll arrange to have underground utility lines marked so you can dig safely.

Permit Fees

You'll need to pay a fee for your fence permit. While the exact amount can change, previously noted fees were around $74. It's always best to confirm the current fee directly with the Township when you're ready to apply.

Got Questions?

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, or to get your permit application, your best bet is to contact the Warminster Township Department of Licenses & Inspections or the Zoning Office. You can find their contact details on the official Warminster Township website or by calling the main township number. They can guide you through the specifics for your property.

Okay, if you're planning to put up a fence in Warminster Township, PA, you'll definitely want to get familiar with the local rules first. Nobody wants to build a fence only to find out it's not up to code! Here's a rundown of what you generally need to know.

Getting Started: Permits are Key

First things first: yes, you need a permit to put up a new fence in Warminster. You'll get this from the Warminster Department of Licenses and Inspections. This isn't just for brand new fences either; if you're replacing more than 25% of an existing fence, you'll need a permit for that too.

When you apply, be ready to show them a plan that details your proposed fence – including its height, exactly where it's going on your property, and what materials you'll be using.

How High Can You Go? Height & Location Rules

Warminster Township has specific rules about how tall your fence can be and where it can go:

• Front Yards: Generally, fences in your front yard can be a maximum of 4 feet high.2 They also need to be an "open-type" fence, like picket, wrought iron, or split rail, with at least 50% open space. There might be a special exception for "reverse frontage lots" (corner lots where the back faces a side street) next to busier roads, where a 6-foot fence could be allowed in that "front" yard.

• Side and Rear Yards: For the sides and back of your property, you can typically go up to 6 feet high.

• Fences Taller Than 6 Feet: If any part of your fence ends up being taller than 6 feet (this is less common for typical residential fences but good to know), that portion of the fence must be at least 50% open.

• Placement on Your Property: Fences are usually put up in side or rear yards. It’s crucial that your fence is entirely within your property lines. Your plot plan will be important here to make sure you know exactly where those lines are and to avoid any issues with neighbors or township property. Also, be mindful of any easements on your property where fencing might not be allowed.

• Don't Block the View! This is a big one for safety. Your fence cannot block the view for drivers pulling out of driveways or at street corners. Make sure it doesn’t create any dangerous blind spots.

What Can (and Can't) Your Fence Be Made Of?

The township has rules about fence materials too:

• No-Gos: You can't use barbed wire, razor wire, or other sharp materials, especially in residential areas. Also, say no to fences made from fabric, junk, old appliances, tanks, or barrels.

• Front Yard Style: Remember, if you're putting a fence in the front yard, it needs to be that "open" style we discussed.

While not always explicitly spelled out in every township's code, it's a common and good practice to build your fence with the "good side" (the finished side) facing your neighbors or any public streets.

Special Cases: Pools and HOAs

• Pool Fences: There are extra safety rules if you have a swimming pool (or are putting one in). Pennsylvania law requires pools deeper than 24 inches to be completely enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high. Gates need to be self-closing and self-latching. Warminster Township follows these state rules and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, so check all specific requirements.

• Homeowners Associations (HOAs): If your home is part of an HOA, they likely have their own set of rules for fences (type, height, color, etc.). You'll need to get their approval in addition to the permit from Warminster Township. So, check your HOA documents first!

When in Doubt, Ask!

These are the general guidelines, but every property is unique. The best way to ensure your fence project goes smoothly is to talk directly with the Warminster Township Department of Licenses and Inspections. They can confirm all the current requirements and answer any specific questions you have about your property.

You can reach them at:

• Phone: (215) 443-5423

• Email: inspector@warminsterpa.org