Ornamental metal fits a lot of Salt Lake City. On the east bench it keeps the view of the valley and the mountains open. In the Avenues and other older neighborhoods it suits brick and stone houses, and in a local historic district it is often an easier design to get approved than a solid panel. Aluminum does not rust and needs almost no care in our dry air. Steel is heavier and stronger, and is the better pick where security or impact is the concern.
Slopes are the main technical question here. Most aluminum and steel systems can rack, meaning the rails tilt with the grade while the pickets stay upright, but each system has a limit. On steep Avenues or foothill lots we measure the fall along the line and choose a panel that can follow it, or we step the panels and close the gaps underneath. Posts are set in concrete below the city's 30 inch frost depth.
Winter is hard on painted steel at street level. Plows throw salty slush onto front fences along busy roads, and any chip in the coating becomes a rust spot. We use powder-coated or galvanized material and touch up cuts made on site. If you have a dog, tell us its size before we order. Picket spacing and the gap at the bottom matter more than the strength of the metal.
Aluminum & ornamental steel in Salt Lake City: common questions
Do I need a permit for an ornamental metal fence in Salt Lake City?
The city's zoning code calls for a building permit before any fence is built, and limits fences in front of the house to 4 feet. In a local historic district the Planning Division reviews the design first. We check both for your address.
Will aluminum hold up to snow load and wind here?
Yes for normal residential use. Open pickets let wind pass, so metal fences do well in canyon winds. The weak point is snow pushed against the fence by a plow or blower, so keep piles off it.
Aluminum or steel for a front yard?
Aluminum if you want low upkeep and no rust. Steel if the fence faces a parking area or a busy street and may get bumped. Both come in the same black ornamental styles.
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.