Do I need to call 811 before a fence goes up?

Yes. NC 811 lists putting up a fence among the projects that need a utility locate. North Carolina law calls for three working days' notice, and the request is free through 811 or nc811.org.

Does the installer need a contractor license?

North Carolina's general contractor license applies to projects costing $40,000 or more. Most home fence jobs are below that, but ask the state licensing board whether fence work is in scope.

Should I pay in full upfront?

It is safer not to. Agree on a payment schedule in the contract and avoid paying everything before work is done.

Who pulls the permit?

Ask in writing. The city's portal asks for contractor information if applicable, so clarify whether the installer or you will file.

Hiring a Fence Installer in Raleigh: A Checklist

Call (984) 363-2979

A fence is a visible, expensive, long-lived project, and a bad installer can cost you in permit trouble or a damaged utility line. Use this checklist to compare quotes.

1. The permit

Raleigh requires a zoning permit for fence installation, so ask each installer who applies and what that costs. The city’s portal asks for contractor information if applicable. Read our permit guide first so you know what to expect. If you live in a historic district, ask whether the Certificate of Appropriateness is part of the job.

2. Call 811

NC 811 homeowner guidance lists putting up a fence among the projects that need a locate. Under North Carolina law, you give three working days’ notice by calling 811 or filing at nc811.org. The service is free. Ask your installer who makes the call and when, and get the answer in the contract. Know that 811 does not mark private lines such as sprinkler lines or pet-fence wire, so tell your installer about anything installed on your property.

3. Licensing and insurance

North Carolina requires a general contractor license for undertakings costing $40,000 or more under G.S. 87-1. Typical fences cost far less, so a general license is probably not the main filter, but the state licensing board can tell you whether fence work is covered. Whatever the answer, ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Ask to have the certificate sent directly from the insurer. It also helps to ask what happens if a utility line is damaged and who is responsible.

4. The written contract

A good contract is specific. Look for:

Material and grade, and the fence height.
Total linear footage and gate count and type.
Post spacing and how posts are set.
Who pulls the permit and who calls 811.
Removal and haul-away of any old fence.
Start and finish timing, and the payment schedule.
Warranty terms in writing.

5. Payment

Avoid paying everything before work is done. Tie payments to milestones, and keep your own copies of the permit, 811 ticket number, and insurance certificates.

6. Compare like with like

Give every installer the same height, material, and gate plan, and see how cost drivers show up in each quote. Also confirm the layout is allowed by the height rules and fits your property lines and easements.

Ready for local quotes? Call (984) 363-2979 or send a request below.