Fence cost in San Diego depends on material, height, and access. Here’s real per-linear-foot pricing for 2026. For a deeper breakdown by job type, see our 2026 fence cost guide.
By material (6-foot height, installed)
- Chain link: $18–$32 / linear foot
- Wood (cedar, dog-eared): $32–$58 / linear foot
- Wood (premium redwood, board-on-board): $58–$95 / linear foot
- Vinyl (privacy): $42–$78 / linear foot
- Aluminum (decorative): $48–$95 / linear foot
- Wrought iron (custom): $95–$180 / linear foot
- Composite (Trex, etc): $65–$120 / linear foot
What’s included
Standard install: posts (concrete-set), framing, panels/pickets, top cap (if applicable), one gate (4-foot pedestrian).
Add-ons:
- Vehicle gate (8–12 ft): +$450–$1,800
- Automatic gate opener: +$1,500–$4,500 (see gate installation)
- Demolition of existing fence: $4–$8 / linear foot
- Hauling debris: Often included; ask
- Permits: $150–$400 if required
Permit requirements in San Diego
Most cities require permits for fences over 6 feet, fences in front yards over 3 feet (per city ordinance), or fences on hillside/slope properties.
Cities with strictest fence ordinances: Coronado, Del Mar, La Jolla (within Coastal Zone), Solana Beach. Always check before quoting.
Sample project totals
100 ft cedar privacy fence with 1 gate: $3,500–$6,000 150 ft vinyl with vehicle gate: $7,200–$13,500 200 ft chain link backyard: $3,800–$6,800 75 ft wrought iron front yard with automatic gate: $9,500–$18,000
Frequently asked questions
How much does a fence cost per linear foot in San Diego?
Most San Diego fence jobs run $18 to $120 per linear foot installed, depending on material. Chain link is the low end at $18 to $32 per foot, while wrought iron custom work tops out near $180. For a standard 100-foot cedar privacy fence with one gate, expect $3,500 to $6,000 all in.
What is the cheapest fence option in San Diego?
Chain link is the most affordable at $18 to $32 per linear foot installed. It’s common for backyards, dog runs, and commercial lots where visibility doesn’t matter. If you need privacy at the lowest price, dog-eared cedar at $32 to $58 per foot is the next step up.
Does a fence in San Diego require a permit?
Most cities require a permit if the fence exceeds 6 feet in height, sits in a front yard above 3 feet, or is on a hillside or slope property. Coastal Zone areas like La Jolla, Del Mar, Coronado, and Solana Beach have the strictest rules. Permits typically cost $150 to $400, and we pull them on your behalf when the job requires it.
How long does a wood fence last in San Diego’s climate?
A properly installed cedar fence in San Diego lasts 15 to 20 years with basic maintenance. Coastal salt air accelerates weathering closer to the ocean, so board-on-board or redwood grades hold up better in those zones. Sealing or staining every 2 to 3 years adds years to the lifespan. For a longer-lived option, vinyl fence carries a 20 to 30 year life expectancy with no painting required.
How much does fence demolition and removal cost?
Most San Diego contractors charge $4 to $8 per linear foot to tear out and haul an old fence. Concrete post removal can add to that cost if posts are set deep. Debris hauling is often included in the demolition price, but confirm that in your quote before signing.
Is vinyl or wood fence better for San Diego?
Vinyl costs more upfront ($42 to $78 per foot vs. $32 to $58 for cedar) but needs no painting, resists moisture, and holds color for decades. Wood is easier to repair section by section and looks more traditional. For homes within a mile of the coast, vinyl’s resistance to salt air and humidity gives it a clear edge in long-term maintenance cost.
When to call us
We pull permits when the job needs them. Free quotes with measurement and material samples on-site, whether you need a full fence installation or a repair.
Call us at (858) 925-5546 for a fence quote in San Diego County.