Also known as: Fence contractor, perimeter fencing, gates and operators, ornamental iron, chain link, vinyl fencing
What this role covers
- Defines property boundaries, privacy, and security with durable fence systems.
- Provides safe, reliable access via pedestrian and driveway gates, with or without automation.
- Coordinates layout, property lines, code limits, and HOA guidelines for a compliant install.
What they do
- Layout and property lines: Locate survey pins or coordinate with a surveyor; verify setbacks, heights, corner sight lines, and neighbor agreements.
- Posts and foundations: Augered holes and concrete footings, driven steel posts, base‑plated posts on concrete, helical piers where soils demand; wind and slope adjustments.
- Wood fencing: Privacy, board‑on‑board, horizontal, good‑neighbor, lattice/topper, rot/kick boards, caps; racking or stepping on grades; stain/seal options.
- Metal and wire systems: Ornamental iron/aluminum, welded wire panels, chain link (galvanized, vinyl‑coated) with gates and optional privacy slats.
- Vinyl and composite: Low‑maintenance privacy and picket styles; reinforced posts and rails for wind and spans.
- Gates and hardware: Pedestrian and driveway gates, hinges, self‑closers, latches, drop rods, magnetic locks; sag‑resistant framing and adjustable hardware.
- Operators and access control: Swing/slide gate operators, UL 325/ASTM F2200 safety (photo‑eyes, edges, entrapment zones), keypads, remotes, intercoms, loop detectors.
- Special conditions: Pool‑code barriers (self‑closing, self‑latching, climb‑resistant, gap limits), deer/dog runs, acoustic/privacy upgrades, temporary construction fencing.
- Repairs and upkeep: Replace leaning posts and damaged panels, rehang and brace gates, hardware swaps, cleaning, staining, and sealing.
Where it fits in the project timeline
- After grading and hardscape layout: Install fences once final grades, walls, and driveways are set.
- Before landscaping: Set posts and panels so planting beds and irrigation can finish cleanly.
- Late stage for automation: Gate operators and access control after electrical power and low‑voltage runs are available.
Permits, inspections, and coordination
- Height limits, front‑yard and corner visibility rules; planning/zoning approval if exceeded.
- Pool barrier code compliance where applicable; gate swing, latch height, and gap requirements.
- Electrical permit for powered gate operators and new circuits.
- HOA design review for materials, colors, and street‑facing elevations.
- Utility locates (811) before post digging; right‑of‑way encroachment approvals if near sidewalks or alleys.
Deliverables and documentation
- Site layout notes or a simple plan with fence lines, heights, and gate locations.
- Material specifications, color/stain selections, and hardware schedule.
- Operator manuals, safety labels, remote/keypad programming details.
- As‑built updates for underground power to gates and any field adjustments.
When to bring this team in
- When property lines are confirmed and grading is near final.
- Before landscaping and irrigation to avoid rework.
- When pool barriers, pet containment, or driveway access control are required.
Interfaces with other trades
- Surveyor: Property line verification and corner pin locating.
- Concrete and masonry: Curb, wall, and pier interfaces; coring/anchoring details.
- Electrical/low‑voltage: Power to operators, keypads, intercoms, loops, and sensors.
- Landscaping and irrigation: Clearances at grades, root protection, and drip/zone routing.
- Paving and sitework: Driveway transitions and gate track/slab requirements for sliders.
Safety and risk notes
- Utility locates and potholing before augering; post‑tension slab scanning where applicable.
- Concrete handling, cutting, drilling, and welding PPE; heat and spark control.
- Gate entrapment zones designed per UL 325/ASTM F2200; photo‑eye and edge testing.
- Wind loading and overturn prevention with proper footing depth, post size, and bracing.
Quality and standards
- Straight lines and consistent heights via stringlines and grade control; posts plumb and set to depth.
- Corrosion‑resistant fasteners and hardware (hot‑dip galvanized or stainless; coastal upgrades where needed).
- Chain link gauges and coatings to ASTM standards; powder‑coat and galvanization quality checks.
- Pool barrier requirements, UL 325/ASTM F2200 for gate automation, and local code compliance throughout.
Not to confuse with
Deck construction, large retaining walls, or full security systems. Fencing focuses on perimeter barriers and gates, with optional operator integration.
Typical inclusions
- Layout, post installation, concrete footings, and fence panels/rails.
- Pedestrian and driveway gates with hinges, latches, and stops.
- Optional operators and access devices; cleanup and haul‑off of old fencing.
- Staining/sealing for wood fences if specified.
Typical exclusions (project‑dependent)
- Property surveys, major grading, or tree/brush removal.
- Large masonry columns or extensive retaining walls unless noted.
- Electrical trenching beyond gate power unless specified.
- HOA submittal fees and public right‑of‑way permits unless included.
Result
A straight, sturdy, and well‑detailed fence with smooth, secure gates—aligned to the site, matched to local rules, and built to handle weather and use.
