A wood privacy fence is the usual pick for a Springfield back yard. We build in cedar and pressure-treated pine and set the posts deep, because damp prairie soil and frost are what bring wood fences down here. Solid styles go at the side and rear, where the city allows up to 6 feet.
Wood is still the most requested back yard fence in Springfield. We build privacy, shadowbox, board-on-board and picket styles in cedar and in pressure-treated pine. A common build here uses treated pine posts, which are rated for ground contact, with cedar boards that resist rot and stay straighter through wet springs and hot, dry Augusts.
The ground decides how long a wood fence lasts. Springfield soil is dark silt loam over clay, and it stays damp at the surface for weeks at a time. Posts rot right where they meet that soil. We set them below the frost line, slope the concrete so water runs away from the wood, and keep the bottom of the boards off the dirt and the mulch.
Expect us to ask where the fence faces. The city's zoning ordinance limits a front yard fence to 4 feet and requires it to be at least half open, so a solid privacy style belongs at the side and rear, where 6 feet is the limit. On windy lots at the edge of town we tighten the post spacing for a solid 6-foot run.
Wood & cedar fences in Springfield: common questions
How tall can a wood privacy fence be in Springfield?
Six feet is the top limit for a residential fence under section 155.069 of the city zoning ordinance. In a required front yard the limit is 4 feet, and the fence there must be at least 50 percent open, which rules out solid privacy boards.
Is cedar worth the extra cost over treated pine here?
For the boards, often yes. Cedar resists rot without treatment and warps less as the weather swings from wet to dry. Treated pine is fine for posts and is the lower cost choice for boards if you keep it sealed.
Why do wood fences lean after a few winters?
Most lean because the posts were set shallow or have rotted at ground level. Frozen soil lifts a short footing a little each year. Deeper posts and good drainage at the base prevent most of it.
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.