How Much Does a Pool Fence Cost?

Pool Fence Cost Factors

Many variables influence how much you'll pay for your pool fence, including the height of the fence, the color, concrete work needs, and elevation changes. Consider the implications of these elements when figuring out your project budget.

Height

The height of your pool fence can increase the cost of fencing materials by 20%. The bare minimum pool fence height is 48 inches, although some municipalities require a fence of at least 60 inches tall. A fence of around 48 inches costs considerably less per linear foot than one of 60 inches. 

Expect to pay up to 50% more for materials if you choose a custom fence height rather than a standard 48- or 60-inch fence that comes in prefabricated panels.

Color

Powder coating a metal fence costs an average of $3 per square foot. The cost to stain or paint a fence ranges from $1 to $3 per square foot. While most colors are factory standard and figured into the base price of the material you choose. Custom colors and finishes, such as a veined copper powder-coated finish for a metal fence, will carry an extra charge. 

Concrete Work

Concrete slab costs $4 to $8 per square foot and creates the foundation of your pool fence. It provides stability and durability and makes it easier to create a nice, even elevation and high-end, professional finish, even if you need to go over uneven terrain or form a step-down setup.

If you don't want to use concrete, but instead build your pool fence right into the soil, labor costs will increase significantly. The labor cost to install a pool fence is $60 to $80 per hour, so you could spend an additional $640 for every day of additional labor required.

Elevation Changes

Elevation changes can increase labor costs by up to 50%, depending on the gradient, the building material, and the terrain and topography. Having to do significant regrading at the fence site can add a day or more to your labor total, which costs up to $640. 

Step-down configurations—commonly used to deal with difficult sloping terrain—are challenging and time-consuming to get right, so labor costs increase.

Pool Fence Costs by Material

Your typical mesh safety fence runs $15 to $40 per linear foot for both the materials and installation. But if you’re planning on tackling a DIY install, you’ll need to know the material costs and labor.

Although most professionals price projects as a total amount, they typically find that figure by using linear feet measurements. You can cut costs by using already existing structures, such as running it between a garage and a home.

Permanent vs. Removable Pool Fence Costs

Removable pool fencing costs around $2,500 to $3,200, compared to the $1,500 to $10,000 costs of installing a permanent pool fence. 

Temporary pool fences are usually made from tough plastic mesh and come in large panels of around 15 feet. They work on a bi-lateral tension system, so they need regular inspection to ensure secure positioning. 

Removable pool fences are the cheaper option, but they're not as secure as permanent fencing, and they don't work well on slopes or where a step-down is necessary. 

Cost of Other Pool Fence Types 

Aside from the standard pool safety fence, there are a few other types of fencing for pools to consider. 

Baby Pool Fences

Baby pool fences cost between $1,500 and $20,000, and are either mesh or tempered glass. Once they're mobile, babies and toddlers can fit through surprisingly small gaps, so a mesh or glass fence is the safest option, as there are no gaps. Plus, these materials provide caregivers with the best, unrestricted view of the pool area to help keep little ones safe.

• Child Safety Mesh: $1,500–$2,500. Designed specifically for family safety. Unlike glass, they’re soft in case your child runs into it. We discuss major brands in the above “mesh fence” section.

• Tempered Glass: $7,000–$20,000+. Provides an unobstructed view of the swimming area. Adds a modern, high-end touch.

Privacy Fences

Privacy pool fences cost $2,500 to $13,000, or $10 to $60 per linear foot. They are generally wood or composite and come in solid panels. Wooden privacy fences cost $27 to $60 per linear foot, all-in. Composite privacy fencing costs between $22 and 34 per linear foot, all-in. As their name implies, they offer visual privacy, letting you enjoy your pool without being self-conscious about intrusive onlookers. 

Note, however, that privacy fences are less safe than mesh, glass, or chain-link options if you have pets or kids because you cannot see through them to determine if your pets or kids need help.

Pool Safety Nets

While not fences, nets provide another layer of safety. Mesh swimming pool covers cost $1,200 to $3,200 on average. Nets range from $1,500 to $2,500. Nets for spas and hot tubs range from $500 to $1,000. They work like covers, only using netting instead of a solid fabric for added safety. They stretch across the top of the water and attach to secure anchors spread evenly around the edge.

Pool Gate Costs

Adding a pool gate typically runs from $200 to $500. However, glass can cost up to $1,000. Building codes almost always require that a gate be both self-closing and outward-opening from the pool area.

How to Calculate Pool Fencing Costs

When planning your fool fencing project, you can calculate the approximate project cost fairly simply with a bit of basic math. Determine the cost per linear foot of your choice of fencing and multiply by the linear feet needed. Add the cost of how many gates you need. 

You'll also need to factor in the cost of any concrete work or custom sections such as step-downs, regrading and decorative pillars. Remember to also add in the cost of any custom finishes you want. Leave yourself an overage of around 10% for unpredictable extra costs.

DIY vs. Hire a Pool Fencing Contractor

For safety reasons, you should always hire a professional installer. Most states and cities follow building code requirements for fencing. Improper installation is a serious safety concern. Even if you’re going to attempt this yourself, always have a professional inspect your work. Find a pool fence installation professional near you today for quotes and consultations.

FAQs

How long does it take to install a swimming pool fence?

It can take as few as two hours to install a simple swimming pool fence. However, when you factor in concrete work, regrading, custom installations, and the time it takes to work with different materials, it can take as many as two full days to install a pool fence.

Do I need a lock on my pool gate?

Yes, you need a lock on your pool gate. Ideally, you need a self-closing, self-latching pool gate that is also key-lockable.

How tall does a pool fence need to be?

In most states, the minimum height requirement for a pool fence is 48 inches. However, the minimum height is 60 inches in some areas, so be sure to check with your local planning office. And, if in doubt, always go with the taller option for added safety.