Wood is the fence most Saint Paul back yards already have, and the one most owners ask us to build again. On a city lot with an alley, that usually means a privacy fence down both sides and across the back, with a walk gate by the garage. We build solid privacy, shadowbox, board-on-board and picket styles in cedar and in pressure-treated pine, and we can mix the two: cedar boards where you see them, treated posts in the ground.
The posts are what fail first in Minnesota. Frozen ground grips a shallow post and lifts it, and wet spring soil rots wood at grade. We set posts below frost depth, shape the footing so frost has less to grab, and keep the bottom of the boards off the soil. Snow matters too. If your fence runs along the alley or driveway, tell us where the plow and the snowblower throw, so we can plan for it.
Saint Paul limits front yard fences to four feet and side and rear yard fences to seven feet, and the city requires a fence permit for a new fence. In the older districts a wood picket fence is often the style that suits the street. We check the rules for your address, including any heritage preservation review, before you settle on a design.
Wood & cedar fences in Saint Paul: common questions
Is cedar worth the extra cost over treated pine?
Cedar resists rot and insects on its own, moves less as it dries and weathers to an even gray. Treated pine costs less and handles ground contact well. Many owners choose cedar boards on treated posts. We price both so you can compare.
How tall can a wood privacy fence be in Saint Paul?
The city's fence page allows up to seven feet in side and rear yards and four feet in a front yard, with a lower limit inside the sight triangle on corner lots. Most privacy fences we build are six feet.
When can a new wood fence be stained?
When the wood is dry enough to take it. Sprinkle water on a board. If it soaks in, the fence is ready. A fence built late in the fall usually waits until late spring.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We visit, measure and talk through options.
- Written quote: Clear pricing with material choices side by side.
- Permits & planning: We check local rules and help with permits before we dig.
- Install & clean-up: Our crew installs, cleans up and walks the finished fence with you.