Fence Installation in Vancouver WA & Portland OR

Professional fence design and installation by a licensed general contractor serving both sides of the Columbia River. IVY Contracting builds cedar privacy fences, vinyl fences, chain link, and ornamental steel fencing across Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, Portland, Gresham, and throughout Clark County and the Portland Metro area. Tim personally oversees every fence project — including the post-setting details that determine whether your fence lasts 8 years or 25.

Request a Free Fence Estimate

What a Full Fence Installation Includes

Property line verification — we help identify property lines and confirm setback requirements before we dig
Utility locates — 811 call and marking to avoid buried lines
Post holes dug to proper depth and diameter for our soil and frost conditions
Concrete-set posts — critical in Pacific Northwest wet clay soils
Pressure-treated posts or steel post inserts (both are standard options depending on longevity goals)
Straight, level, plumb construction across the entire run
Gates built to spec — with heavy-duty hinges and latches sized for the gate weight
Full cleanup and haul-away of old fencing and dirt spoils

Why Post Installation Matters More Than Panels in the Pacific Northwest

The post is what fails first on almost every Vancouver and Portland fence — not the panels. Our heavy clay soils hold water. Wet posts rot. Rotted posts lean. Leaning posts pull the whole fence out of alignment.

The difference between an 8-year fence and a 25-year fence is almost entirely in how the posts are set: correct depth, correct concrete, gravel drainage at the base, and either premium pressure-treated wood or steel post inserts. We build every fence with post longevity as the primary structural concern — because in this climate, that's what actually matters.

Fence Types We Build

6' Cedar Privacy Fence — The most-requested fence in Vancouver and Portland. Beautiful, Pacific Northwest-native cedar, dog-ear or flat-top, standard or premium grade.
Cedar Picket Fence — Classic look for front yards and character homes. Common in historic Portland neighborhoods and Uptown Vancouver.
Vinyl Privacy Fence — Zero maintenance, 30+ year lifespan, various styles. Higher upfront cost, lower long-term cost.
Chain Link Fence — Practical, affordable, durable. Best for pet enclosures, security fencing, and property boundaries where privacy isn't the goal.
Ornamental Steel Fence — Elegant, low-maintenance, security-focused. Common for premium Portland homes and Camas properties.
Ranch Rail / Split Rail — Rural aesthetic for larger properties in Brush Prairie, Hockinson, La Center, and outer Ridgefield.

Our Fence Installation Process

Free on-site estimate — We walk the property line, discuss materials and heights, and note any obstacles (trees, existing structures, grade changes).
Written proposal — Material, linear footage, gate count, timeline, firm pricing.
Utility locates — We call 811 for buried line marking before any digging.
Post setting — We dig, set posts in concrete with proper drainage, and let cure.
Panel/rail install — Once posts are set, panels or rails go up quickly.
Gate hardware and finish work — Hinges, latches, hardware, and final cleanup.
Walkthrough — We inspect every section with you.

What Does New Fence Installation Cost in Vancouver WA & Portland OR?

Fence costs are typically quoted per linear foot. Typical ranges installed:

Chain link: $18 – $30 per linear foot
Cedar picket: $25 – $40 per linear foot
6' cedar privacy fence: $35 – $55 per linear foot
Vinyl privacy fence: $45 – $65 per linear foot
Ornamental steel: $50 – $85 per linear foot
Ranch rail / split rail: $18 – $32 per linear foot

Gates typically add $400 – $1,200 each depending on size and hardware. Portland projects typically run 8-15% higher than Clark County due to labor and permit costs. We provide firm written proposals after on-site measurement.

Areas We Serve for Fence Installation

Vancouver • Hazel Dell • Salmon Creek • Brush Prairie • Battle Ground • Hockinson • Ridgefield • La Center • Camas • Washougal • Woodland • Portland • Gresham

Fence Installation FAQ

Do I need a permit for a fence in Clark County or Vancouver?
Most residential fences under 7 feet don't require a permit in Vancouver or Clark County. Fences over 7 feet, retaining wall fences, or fences in visibility triangles (near driveways/intersections) typically do. We check requirements for your specific address during the estimate.

Do I need a permit for a fence in Portland?
Similar to Vancouver — most residential fences under 7 feet don't require a permit in Portland, but there are exceptions in historic districts, corner lots, and near right-of-ways. We verify with Portland BDS as part of your estimate.

How long do cedar fences last in the Pacific Northwest?
A properly built cedar fence with concrete-set posts and good drainage typically lasts 15-25 years. Poorly installed cedar fences fail in 8-12 years — almost always because of post rot, not panel failure. This is why we build every fence with post longevity as the priority.

Should I use wood posts or steel post inserts?
Wood posts (pressure-treated) are standard and work well when set correctly. Steel post inserts add cost but extend fence life significantly in wet soils common in Clark County and East Portland. Worth the upgrade on premium fences or in areas with historic post rot problems.

Do you handle property line surveys?
We help identify existing survey markers and setbacks, but we're not licensed surveyors. If your property line is in dispute or unclear, we recommend a professional survey before we start — a $500 survey is cheaper than a fence built on the wrong side of the line.

Can you match my neighbor's existing fence?
Often yes. If your neighbor has a common style (6' cedar privacy, chain link, etc.) we can typically match it. Custom or older fences may be harder to match exactly — we'll be honest about what's achievable during the estimate.

Do you build fences with gates for driveways?
Yes. Driveway gates require heavier posts, reinforced framing, and heavy-duty hinges. We build both single-swing and double-swing driveway gates in cedar, vinyl, and ornamental steel. Automated gate operators can be added.

Can you replace just a section of my existing fence?
Yes, but matching aged fence panels to new construction is often disappointing — the colors and weathering rarely match. If more than 25-30% of the fence needs replacement, full replacement usually looks better long-term. We'll advise honestly during the estimate.

Do you build fences on sloped lots?
Yes — common throughout Portland's West Hills, hillside Washougal, and parts of Camas and Felida. Sloped fence installations use either "stepped" panels (following the slope in steps) or "raked" panels (following the slope continuously). We recommend the right approach based on your terrain and preferences.

Do you install ornamental steel fencing in Portland?
Yes. Ornamental steel is popular in Portland's West Hills, Alameda, and other premium neighborhoods. We install manufactured aluminum and steel systems as well as custom welded fencing for high-end applications.

Are you licensed in both Washington and Oregon?
Yes. IVY Contracting is a fully licensed and insured general contractor in both states. License numbers and insurance certificates available on request.