Privacy fence requests are climbing across Newburyport this summer, and Olympic Fence Co, a family-owned company based in West Newbury serving the North Shore since 1985, is booking installations earlier than in past years. Vinyl, cedar, and semi-private styles are leading demand as more homeowners build out backyards, pool decks, and outdoor entertaining spaces.
Newburyport’s coastal location presents specific challenges for fencing. Salt air from the Atlantic can damage untreated hardware and finishes, making material choice critical. Vinyl and cedar are popular for their resistance to coastal conditions, but proper installation with stainless or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners is essential for longevity. Vinyl offers low maintenance—a simple hose rinse removes salt and pollen—while cedar provides natural beauty with regular staining every two to three years.
Semi-private designs, such as board-on-board or lattice tops, allow wind to pass through, reducing the sail effect that can damage solid fences during Nor’easters. This is particularly important for exposed lots near Plum Island, Joppa, or the Merrimack River. Posts must be set below the frost line to prevent heaving during New England winters, and soil conditions vary from sandy near the coast to wetter inland.
Pool fencing requires adherence to Massachusetts barrier codes, including minimum height, child-proof gaps, and self-closing, self-latching gates. Homeowners should verify current local rules before finalizing designs. Property lines and setbacks are also crucial; a survey or plot plan can prevent costly mistakes. Newburyport has its own permitting process, and historic districts may impose additional restrictions on fence style, height, and materials.
Calling Dig Safe at 811 to mark underground utilities is a legal requirement before digging post holes. Professional installers build this into their schedule. With summer being peak season, early booking is advisable to secure a preferred installation window and allow time for material selection, property line confirmation, permits, and historic review if needed.
“More families are putting money into their outdoor spaces, and privacy fencing is usually the first thing they ask about,” said owner James LaPierre. “Vinyl and cedar both hold up in the salt air here, and every install is backed by our lifetime workmanship warranty. We walk the property line with the homeowner, set posts below the frost line, and handle the permit questions up front so there are no surprises.”
Olympic Fence Co, a member of the American Fence Association, has served the North Shore since 1985. For more information, visit https://olympicfencema.com/newburyport-fence-company/.
