Fencing service costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Professional silt fence installation costs between $415 and $2,075, averaging $835 depending on your fence type and installation method.
The durability your site needs depends on weather conditions, with wire-backed fences working best for rainy regions and longer construction timelines.
You should confirm whether your contractor includes removal and disposal at project end to avoid unexpected bills or extra work.
Hiring a local fencing professional ensures your silt fence is trenched properly and meets all local building codes for erosion control.
The average silt fence installation cost is $835, which is $5 per linear foot. Costs range from $2 to $8 per linear foot, depending on the type of material and installation process. Given that silt fencing is ripped down at the end of a new build home project, it might seem like an unnecessary expense. However, this legal necessity and environmental protection measure is typically rolled into your contractor costs to build a new home.
Silt fences vary in quality. If your build site won’t see much rain, is pretty clean, and construction is quick, you might be able to opt for a simpler, less durable plastic-backed silt fence. Heavier-duty, wide, wire-backed fence construction is a better investment for muddy sites in rainy regions with a long build time. Your contractor should advise you on what is best for your site.
| Silt Fence Type | Construction | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Type A | Medium durability | $3–$6 per linear foot |
| Type B | Low durability | $2–$4 per linear foot |
| Type C | High durability | $5–$8 per linear foot |
The size of your building lot affects silt fence installation costs. If you're designing a grand multi-bedroom family home with sizable grounds, you’ll need much more fencing than a compact one-bedroom tiny house. The average U.S. home sits on a lot that’s around 1/5 acre.
Below are some common lot sizes and average cost ranges.
| Lot Size | Perimeter Length | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1/5 acre | 167 linear feet | $334–$1,336 |
| 1/4 acre | 208 linear feet | $416–$1,664 |
| 1/2 acre | 415 linear feet | $830–$3,320 |
| 1 acre | 835 linear feet | $1,670–$6,680 |
Traditional silt fence trench installation involves digging a trench to bury the fabric and stakes into the ground sufficiently. A modern static slicing method, which uses a blade to cut into the soil, is becoming more common as the process inserts the fencing at the same time. Trenching requires almost triple the time it takes to install a silt fence using the static slicing method, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. This means trenching will invariably cost more.
Always ask your contractor what method they use and why. It will allow you to understand if reducing costs is an option.
To avoid pricing surprises, know that additional silt fencing costs can come up due to maintenance and removal, even after the initial installation.
Contractors need to inspect silt fences throughout the construction project. These temporary structures are only designed to last five to eight months, tops. They can easily get torn or sag, especially during downpours and other inclement weather. If the damage is minimal, you can repair by restaking or replacing the posts or removing silt buildup. Occasionally, the fabric may be ripped beyond repair, requiring replacement of some or all of the silt fencing.
Always ask your contractor whether they cover silt fence repairs or replacements as part of the project costs to plan your budget accordingly.
A contractor’s quote usually includes the cost of removing and disposing of silt fencing at the end of the project. You should still check this to avoid having to remove the silt fence yourself or pay an unexpected bill.
It’s best to trust a local fencing pro with silt fencing projects, which requires some construction and technical aspects that are too challenging for DIYers.
When you’re planning a silt fence addition, here are the top reasons why you should hiring a local fencing contractor for the project:
Silt fences need plenty of depth to prevent erosion and other problems, which requires an excavator for trenching.
Pros can handle the hard labor of dealing with rocky or thick clay soil, as well as heavier materials for heavy-duty fences.
The pros can complete the project much faster thanks to professional-grade tools and plenty of experience.
Professionals will ensure the silt fence follows any local building codes.
Here are the important things to keep in mind when attempting to DIY a silt fence:
DIYing a silt fence is best if it’s a relatively short fence to stop erosion.
For larger projects, you’ll need to rent an excavator or mini tractor with excavation attachments.
Consider hiring a landscaping expert for a consultation on where best to put the fence to stop erosion.
Consult your local building codes and permit regulations before starting the trenching.
Call 811 for more information and mark underground lines to avoid damage.
Measure around the future fence area so you can get an accurate price estimate from your fencing pro.
Ask the fencing pros about the project timeline so you can schedule and budget accordingly.
To save time, mark the nearby underground lines and pipes for the workers.
When the installation is ready to begin, clear a path around the silt fence area and make sure it’s accessible to tractors and materials.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
A reliable team for moves across state. My switch to a new place needed careful lifting through tight hallways. The movers checked the doorway first, then carried heavier pieces with slow, controlled movements. Their patience helped prevent damage, and I?d choose them again.
We have used Window Warriors many times with no issues. They arrived on time and were very professional . We have pets and Window Warrior team treated them very well, well trusted team.
Window Warrior of Columbus, Inc.We have bought and sold numerous times over the past 50 years. Sherman Hall and Top Line are top notch. Thorough and detailed, he explains every possibility, probability, and eventuality. High class and pleasant. The best.
Top Line Home Inspections, LLCOur homes curb appeal skyrocketed thanks to Custom Paint Jobs LLC s exterior painting.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCWindow Depot did an amazing job on my deck. I wasnt sure what I wanted to do, but their composite decking was affordable and will last a long time. I am excited to have family over, and I am no longer embarrassed by my backyard. Jeff and the ground crew were polite, respectful, and caring for...
Window Depot USA of Central OhioGreat job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and SealingDid an amazing job transforming my yard. Also installed sod in places, would recommend to everyone.
Cardinal Landscaping & Construction LLCManuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
We hired Andrew and the team from Midwest Lightscapes for a custom lighting design and installation on a Victorian Village home. The house had outdated low-voltage halogen outdoor lights and many of them were not working. Andrew designed and installed a new system including uplighting on the...
Midwest LightscapesThe work was completed in a day and a half. They cut small trees, pulled out an old swing set, pulled out railroad ties and left the place spotless when the job was complete. I am very happy with the fence and their efforts were above and beyond my expectations.
Elite FenceFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Renting temporary fencing will protect your property during construction or even a party. Fence type, material, and security features impact the cost.
Wire fencing offers reliable property boundaries, livestock containment, and garden protection. Use this guide to learn how much wire fencing costs based on factors like type and material.
An electric fence is an effective way to keep animals in your yard. Learn how much different electric fences cost, in this guide.
Silt fences are common in construction sites. They’re vital to protect the environment and local infrastructure. Learn more before your next building project.
Use this guide to learn how to hire a metal fence installer for safe and long-lasting results.
Metal fencing costs on the higher end to install, but when done correctly, it can last decades. Learn about which factors can influence your final budget.
