How much does a pool fence cost?
How much does a pool fence cost?
$10 – $45 average cost per linear foot installed
$2,000 – $13,500 average total cost (200 – 300 linear feet)
Average pool fence cost
The average cost of a pool fence is $10 to $45 per linear foot with installation, or $2,000 to $13,500 total. Mesh, galvanized steel, and black chain-link safety fences are the most affordable materials. A wrought iron or glass pool fence are visually appealing but cost much more.
| National Average Cost | $7,800 |
| Minimum Cost | $500 |
| Maximum Cost | $21,600 |
| Average Range | $2,000 to $13,500* |
*For 200 to 300 linear feet.
Most states require safety fencing for any permanent body of water over 18 inches deep. Non-permanent structures like inflatable kiddie pools do not require a fence.
Most pool fences must be 4 to 5 feet tall and should not have more than 4 inches of space between the bottom of the fence and the ground.
Pool fence cost by material
The cost of a swimming pool fence varies widely by material. Mesh, chain-link, and galvanized steel are the cheapest options. Wrought iron and glass pool fences cost the most. The table below lists the prices for popular materials.
| Pool fence material | Cost per linear foot installed |
|---|---|
| Mesh | $10 – $30 |
| Black chain link | $10 – $29 |
| Plexiglass | $25 – $40 |
| Vinyl | $30 – $45 |
| Wood | $20 – $40 |
| Galvanized steel | $10 – $15 |
| Aluminum | $30 – $45 |
| Wrought iron | $50 – $85 |
| Tempered glass | $100 – $600 |
Mesh
A mesh pool fence costs $10 to $30 per linear foot installed. Mesh fences are safe and affordable. The soft material is low maintenance, kid friendly, and hard to climb. Some mesh fences are removable and cost less than permanent options but are not as durable or secure.
Black chain link
Black chain-link fencing costs $10 to $29 per linear foot installed for fences 6 feet tall and under. Black chain-link has a vinyl coating that makes it less likely to show rust than traditional chain-link, even in a wet environment.
Plexiglass
Plexiglass fencing costs $25 to $40 per linear foot for the materials and installation and is a good option if you want a glass-like look but don’t want to pay for a tempered glass fence. Plexiglass or Lexan is impact resistant and climb proof, but it can become yellow, scratched, and cloudy over time.
Vinyl
Vinyl fencing costs $30 to $45 per linear foot with installation for picket or pool fencing. Vinyl fencing is low maintenance and easy to clean, but it costs more upfront and is prone to cracking. Unlike wood, it doesn’t need to be resealed regularly.
Wood
Wood fencing costs $20 to $40 per linear foot installed for shorter pool fencing. Untreated pine wood costs the least but doesn’t last as long as other types of wood. Pressure-treated pine, cedar, and hardwoods cost more but are slightly water resistant.
Metal
Metal fences cost $20 to $85 per linear foot on average for the materials and labor, depending on the type and size. There are several different types of metal fencing that you could use to build a pool fence:
Galvanized steel fencing costs $10 to $15 per linear foot installed for a wire mesh design. This is one of the most popular pool fence options because galvanized steel is durable, rust-resistant, and affordable.
Wrought iron fencing costs $50 to $85 per linear foot total for 4- to 5-foot fences. Wrought iron is extremely durable and customizable, but it’s also expensive and prone to rust if you don’t maintain it properly.
Aluminum fencing costs $30 to $45 per linear foot installed for pool fencing. Aluminum is a very common pool fence material because it’s easy to install, and contractors prefer to install aluminum fencing while pouring a concrete patio or pool deck.
Tempered glass
A tempered glass pool fence costs $100 to $600 per linear foot installed and is the most expensive pool fence material available. Glass is hard to climb, making it safer, and it may also increase the value of your home. Glass fencing offers a clear view of the pool and comes framed, frameless, or semi-frameless.
Pool fence cost calculator
The cost of a pool fence depends on its size. A large inground pool with a large pool deck will cost more to surround than a small cocktail pool or plunge pool.
| Fence size (linear feet) | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| 50 | $500 – $2,300 |
| 100 | $1,000 – $4,500 |
| 150 | $1,500 – $6,800 |
| 200 | $2,000 – $9,000 |
| 250 | $2,500 – $11,300 |
| 300 | $3,000 – $13,500 |
| 350 | $3,500 – $15,800 |
| 400 | $4,000 – $18,000 |
If you have a fenced yard or pool cover, you may not need to install a fence directly around your pool. Manual safety pool covers cost $1,000 to $3,600 on average. Check local regulations to see what your city requires.
Pool fence cost factors
Different pool fence installers charge different rates for materials and labor. The following factors also influence the cost of a pool fence:
Gate: Pool fence installers sometimes include one gate in the installation estimate. Otherwise, adding a magnetic self-closing, self-locking gates costs $200 to $800.
Height: Most pool safety fences for inground pools are 42 to 60 inches tall, with 48 inches being the most common height. Above-ground pools sometimes only need a short guardrail of 24 to 36 inches. These cost about $100 to $500.
Color: Painting or staining a fence costs $2 to $14 per linear foot for the paint and labor, depending on the fence height, application method, and fence material.
Brand: Some pool fence brands cost more than others. Popular brands charge $10 to $30 per linear foot with installation for mesh pool fences. Top brands include Pool Corral, Protect-a-Child, Katchakid, Guardian, All-Safe, and Life Saver.
Repairs: Fence repairs cost $100 to $200 for small holes, cracks, and missing boards. Replacing posts or fixing major issues costs $250 to $750.
Permit: A fence permit costs $40 to $150, depending on the fence size. Most installers will pull the permit for you and include the fee in their estimate.
Labor
The pool fence installer’s labor fee depends on their experience, your location, and the job complexity. They may raise their rates or charge extra for any of the following prep jobs:
Tree removal costs $150 to $500 to uproot a small tree.
Tree stump removal costs $100 to $400.
Shrub and bush removal costs $25 to $150 per bush.
Yard grading costs $500 to $5,000Â to level the ground.
Pool fence maintenance
Keep up with maintenance to ensure your pool fence lasts as long as possible. Different fencing materials have different maintenance protocols:
Chain-link fences need vinyl coating to prevent corrosion.
Clean metal, tempered glass, and plexiglass fences regularly.
Repaint or re-stain wood regularly and repair loose slats as needed.
Make sure all gate latches and closing mechanisms work properly.
How to save money on pool fencing
Follow these steps to reduce your pool fence installation costs:
Choose low-cost materials instead of high-end options.
Install the shortest fence that local regulations allow instead of a tall privacy fence.
DIY as much of the site preparation as you can.
Ask the contractor if they have any deals or promotions available.
Install the fence in early spring or late fall when demand is lower.
Pool fence FAQs
Do above-ground pools need a fence?
State and city laws vary, but most require fencing around above-ground pools, especially if you have a pool deck around it. Some areas require a 2- to 3-foot guardrail on the edge of the pool. Check local codes before starting a pool fence project.
Do you have to have a fence around a pool?
All states except Alaska, Colorado, and Delaware require you to have a fence around your pool. Some waive the requirement if you have a pool cover or a fenced yard. Specific height regulations and rules vary by state and city, so check with your local government for specifics.
What fence material is best for a pool?
The best fence material for you depends on whether you have children or pets. Mesh and tempered glass are safe because they’re hard to climb. If cost is your priority, choose mesh, chain-link, wood, or galvanized steel.
How long does it take to install a pool fence?
Installing a pool fence takes 2 hours to 2 days, depending on the complexity of the job. Setting up a mesh fence on an already-completed pool deck takes far less time than a complicated job with concrete work, regrading, or custom materials.
Getting estimates from pool fence companies
Follow these guidelines when searching for pool fence companies near you:
Compare three or more estimates from experienced, reputable companies.
Read recent reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Be cautious with very low estimates, which may indicate poor-quality work.
Get a written contract and warranty before any work starts.
Don't pay in full until they finish the project.
Questions to ask pool fence contractors
Ask these questions to help choose the best pool fencing contractor:
Do you specialize in any fencing materials?
How far down do you bury the post anchors?
What materials do you use for the posts?
Can you show me pictures of past projects?
How long should this job take?
How much maintenance will this material need?
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?
Can you handle the permit?
Will your work affect my landscaping?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.