Understanding Backyard Fence Costs in Ontario
A new backyard fence is one of the most valuable upgrades a homeowner can make — improving privacy, safety, security, and curb appeal all at once. But when it comes to planning your project, one of the first questions is always the same: How much will it cost?
The truth is, backyard fence pricing in Ontario isn’t one-size-fits-all. Costs can vary widely based on the materials you choose, the size and shape of your yard, and the professional installation required.
This guide breaks down the most important factors that affect backyard fence cost—and explains why choosing a professional installer ensures the greatest long-term value, durability, and peace of mind for your dollar.
In this blog:
Backyard Fence Costs in Ontario: What Homeowners Need to Know
Understanding Backyard Fence Costs in Ontario
Factors That Affect Backyard Fence Cost
How to Approach Backyard Fence Quotes
How to Save Money on a Backyard Fence
Why Peel Fence Is the Right Choice for Backyard Fencing
FAQs About Backyard Fence Costs in Ontario
Plan Your Backyard Fence with Confidence
Factors That Affect Backyard Fence Cost
When budgeting for a new fence, it helps to understand what goes into the total project price.
In Ontario, several key elements influence the final cost — and knowing these factors upfront makes it easier to plan with confidence.
1. Material Choice
Chain link and wrought iron are the two most durable, long-lasting options for backyard fencing in Ontario.
Chain link offers exceptional value, low maintenance, and strong security.
Wrought iron delivers premium style, enhanced strength, and timeless curb appeal.
Your material choice plays the biggest role in determining overall cost.
2. Fence Height & Length
Taller fences require more posts, rails, and mesh or iron panels — increasing material and installation time. Likewise, longer perimeters naturally cost more due to additional footage.
3. Property Features
Not every yard is perfectly flat. Slopes, uneven lawns, retaining walls, or existing old fencing all add complexity and time to the installation, which affects total cost. Completely flat lots, on the other hand, are usually faster and more affordable to work with.
4. Gates & Add-Ons
Gates are one of the most customized parts of a fence project and can influence cost based on:
- Number of gates needed
- Gate width and design
- Security upgrades (locks, latches, self-closing hardware)
Decorative elements or specialty options also contribute to the final price.
5. Labour & Installation
Professional installation is a major factor — and for good reason. Proper installation ensures your fence is set at the right depth, aligned correctly, and built to withstand decades of Ontario weather. High-quality workmanship directly translates into long-term value.
6. Permits & Bylaws
Local regulations may require specific heights, materials, or designs, especially near pools or property lines. Compliance ensures your fence meets all safety requirements without risk of fines or forced adjustments.
How to Approach Backyard Fence Quotes
When comparing backyard fence prices, it’s important to understand how professional quotes are structured. A quality installer doesn’t price a fence by guessing or breaking it into oversimplified numbers — they evaluate the entire project to ensure accuracy, durability, and long-term value.
Here’s what homeowners should keep in mind:
1. Professional Quotes Cover the Entire Project
A proper fence estimate includes everything required to build a safe, durable fence:
- Materials
- Preparation
- Installation
- Finishing details
- Cleanup
- Warranty coverage
This whole-project approach ensures the price reflects the true scope of work—not just parts of it.
2. Pricing Isn’t Broken Into Line-By-Line Material Costs
Since every yard is unique, reputable installers avoid isolating “per-foot” or material-only pricing. These numbers can be misleading and don’t account for:
- Terrain challenges
- Post spacing
- Gate placement
- Removal of old fencing
- Time and labour variation
A complete quote gives you a realistic picture of what your fence will cost from start to finish.
3. Don’t Compare Per-Foot Prices — Compare Value
Two quotes with similar footage can vary widely based on:
- Installation method (hydraulic-driven posts vs. concrete)
- Material quality (Canadian-made vs. imported)
- Warranty protection
- Crew experience
A lower number doesn’t always mean a better value — especially if the installation won’t withstand Ontario winters.
4. Warranty-Backed Workmanship Matters
The true value of your fence lies in how long it lasts. Professional installation backed by strong warranties protects your investment and prevents costly repairs later.
How to Save Money on a Backyard Fence
A high-quality fence doesn’t have to break the budget. With the right planning and smart material choices, Ontario homeowners can reduce costs while still getting a durable, long-lasting result.
Here are the most effective ways to save:
1. Neighbour Cost-Sharing
One of the easiest ways to lower your fence cost is to split the expense with neighbours along shared property lines. Many neighbours are willing to share costs when the project is professionally installed and adds value to both properties.
| Leave it to the Pros: If needed, a Peel Fence representative can speak directly with your neighbour to explain the process, answer questions, and help make cost-sharing smooth and stress-free. |
2. Combine Materials for Style and Savings
A popular and budget-friendly option is mixing materials: use black chain link for the full perimeter, then add a wrought iron gate at the front for a standout, elegant entry.
With this approach, you get the curb appeal of wrought iron and the affordability of chain link — the best of both worlds.
3. Think Long-Term, Not Just Upfront Costs
Sticker prices don’t tell the full story. A professionally installed fence is built to stay straight, secure, and low-maintenance for decades — which means fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and fewer surprises down the line.
What seems more affordable upfront often ends up costing more when DIY mistakes or low-quality materials need fixing. Long-term value comes from getting the job done right the first time.
Why Peel Fence Is the Right Choice for Backyard Fencing
Choosing the right fence is important — but choosing the right installer is what determines how well that fence performs for the next 20+ years. With more than 53 years of experience, Peel Fence has earned its reputation as one of Ontario’s most trusted names in backyard fencing.
Here’s why homeowners consistently choose Peel Fence for long-lasting, maintenance-free fence installations:
1. Decades of Proven Experience
Peel Fence isn’t a seasonal contractor — fencing is our full-time craft. With over five decades in business, we bring unmatched knowledge of Ontario weather, soil conditions, and local regulations to every project.
2. Canadian-Made, Maintenance-Free Materials
Your fence is only as strong as the materials behind it. Peel Fence uses premium Canadian-made chain link and wrought iron systems engineered to resist rust, corrosion, salt, and harsh winters — ensuring durability without ongoing upkeep.
3. Expert Installation You Can Trust
From precise measurements to hydraulic post installation, Peel Fence ensures fences are built straight, secure, and designed to stay that way. Our team uses closer post spacing (8 ft vs. the typical 10 ft) for added strength and stability across the entire perimeter.
4. Help Navigating Neighbour Cost-Sharing
Sharing a fence line? Peel Fence helps coordinate quotes and communication with neighbours, clarifying details, easing concerns, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable with the plan.
5. Clear Guidance Tailored to Your Property
Every yard is different. Peel Fence helps homeowners understand the best material, layout, and design choices for their property — balancing aesthetics, budget, and long-term performance.
FAQs About Backyard Fence Costs in Ontario
1. What’s the most affordable type of backyard fence?
Black vinyl-coated chain link is typically the most budget-friendly option for Ontario homeowners. It delivers excellent durability, security, and visibility at a lower cost than premium materials — and it remains maintenance-free for decades.
2. Can neighbours legally be required to share fence costs?
In many cases, yes — especially when a fence sits on the property line. Ontario’s Line Fences Act outlines how shared fencing responsibilities work. Peel Fence can help explain cost-sharing options and even assist with neighbour coordination to make the process smooth and fair.
3. How long does a professional fence installation take?
Most residential backyard fencing projects take [AVERAGE TIMELINE REQUIRED], depending on yard size, material choice, and the number of gates. Professional installers work far faster than DIY timelines — and you avoid delays caused by mistakes, tools, or unexpected ground conditions.
4. How do I choose between chain link and wrought iron for my property?
It depends on your goals.
- Chain link is practical, durable, and cost-effective — great for large yards, kids, and pets.
- Wrought iron offers premium curb appeal, strength, and a more refined look.
Many homeowners choose a combination fence: chain link for the majority of the yard and a wrought iron gate at the front to premium, stylish focal point while staying on budget.
Plan Your Backyard Fence with Confidence
Backyard fence costs in Ontario vary based on materials, layout, property conditions, and installation needs — but with the right team, the process becomes clear, predictable, and stress-free.
Whether you choose chain link for practicality or wrought iron for timeless style, Peel Fence helps homeowners make informed decisions, navigate cost-sharing with neighbours, and design fences that look great and stand strong.
Ready to start your fencing project?
Contact Peel Fence today for a free, on-site quote and start planning your backyard fence with confidence.