Define your property boundaries with the right fencing solution
Whether you want to secure your garden, shield your property from prying eyes or simply mark the boundary of your plot, installing a fence or metal trellis is a durable and effective solution. In Switzerland, regulations differ from one canton to the next — hiring a local professional ensures your installation is compliant and neatly executed.
What is a metal trellis fence?
Metal trellis, also known as welded mesh or rigid panel fencing, consists of steel wire panels welded together and mounted on posts. This type of fence stands out for its strength and longevity. Several common variants are used across Switzerland:
- Chain-link fencing: affordable, suitable for light boundary marking and allotment gardens. Flexible and easy to install on sloped terrain.
- Rigid welded panels (Nylofor or Bekaert type): a rigid, non-deformable structure with a clean aesthetic, ideal for residential properties and public spaces.
- Double-wire trellis: reinforced for added security, often used around swimming pools or sensitive areas.
- Aluminium or powder-coated steel fencing: modern design, maintenance-free, available in many colours (moss green RAL 6005, anthracite RAL 7016, light grey).
- Wood-metal combination fencing: wooden panels set into a metal frame, offering privacy with a natural look.
Standard heights range from 80 cm to 200 cm. On sloping ground, panels can be installed in a stepped or terrain-following layout depending on the model.
Why hire a professional?
Fence installation may seem straightforward, but several factors make professional help worthwhile:
- Compliance with local regulations: in Switzerland, each municipality can impose rules on height, setback from the property boundary and permitted materials. In some cantons, a fence over 1.20 m requires a building permit or a declaration.
- Boundary survey and plot limits: a professional ensures your fence sits on your land rather than your neighbour’s, avoiding costly disputes.
- Ground preparation: setting posts in concrete foundations or mounting base plates on existing walls requires technical know-how.
- Installation durability: proper anchoring withstands strong winds, snow loads and ground movement, all typical of the Swiss climate.
- Warranty on workmanship: specialist companies generally offer a 2 to 5-year warranty on installation.
- Handling difficult terrain: across Western Switzerland, rocky ground (Jura, Pre-Alps) or steep slopes call for specialised anchoring techniques (drilling, chemical anchoring, adapted foundations) that only a professional can execute reliably.
- Coordination with other structures: if your project also includes a gate or pedestrian entrance, a gabion wall or a full landscape design, a professional plans all the work together to ensure a seamless result.
When to carry out fencing work in Western Switzerland
The climate in Western Switzerland directly affects the feasibility and quality of installation:
- March to May: the most favourable period. The ground has thawed, weather conditions are mild and the days are getting longer. It is also the ideal time to submit any building permit applications.
- June to August: work takes place in excellent conditions. Book your slot well in advance, however, as this is peak season for landscaping companies.
- September to November: still a good period for fence installation. The ground remains workable and professionals are often more available than in summer.
- December to February: installation is possible if the ground is not deeply frozen, but working conditions are tougher (cold, short days, muddy ground). Mountain cantons (Valais, Jura) are more affected by these winter constraints.
Good to know: if you are also planning a gate, schedule both installations at the same time. This reduces travel costs and ensures perfect alignment between the fence and the gate.
How it works
Step 1: Contact us
Tell us the type of fence you want, the approximate length, the desired height, the nature of the terrain (flat, sloped, rocky) and the intended purpose (security, privacy, simple boundary). Also mention if you need an integrated gate or pedestrian entrance.
Step 2: We visit and provide a free quote
Our team visits your site to take measurements and assess the terrain. We provide a detailed quote specifying materials, labour, timeframe and total price — with no hidden extras.
Step 3: We carry out the work
Our professional installers fit your fence to the highest standards, in compliance with local regulations and on schedule.
Prices and rates in Switzerland
Prices for the supply and installation of metal trellis fencing vary according to the type of fence, length, terrain and region. Here are indicative ranges:
| Fence type | Indicative price per linear metre (supplied & installed) |
|---|---|
| Chain-link fencing (150 cm high) | 40 – 70 CHF |
| Rigid welded panels (150 cm high) | 75 – 130 CHF |
| Rigid panels with privacy screening | 100 – 180 CHF |
| Powder-coated aluminium fencing | 150 – 280 CHF |
| Wood-metal combination fencing | 160 – 320 CHF |
Additional costs may include removal of the old fence (12 – 25 CHF/lm), excavation on rocky or steeply sloping ground, and gate installation (from 650 CHF for a standard model). Swiss VAT at 8.1 % is generally included in the quotes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a building permit to install a fence in Switzerland?
It depends on your municipality and canton. As a general rule, fences under 1.20 m in height do not require a permit. Above that, a works declaration or building permit may be necessary. Your professional knows the local rules and can assist you with the administrative process.
How long does a metal trellis fence last?
A galvanised and plastic-coated steel trellis has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years depending on weather exposure. Powder-coated aluminium models can last even longer with no risk of rust. Minimal maintenance — an annual clean and a check of the fixings — is all it takes to keep your fence in good condition.
How far from the property boundary should the fence be installed?
In Switzerland, the required setback varies by canton and municipality. It typically ranges from 0 to 50 cm from the cadastral boundary. If the fence is placed exactly on the boundary, written agreement from your neighbour is usually required. A professional verifies these points before starting work.
How long does the installation take?
For a standard fence of 30 to 50 linear metres on flat ground, allow 1 to 2 days of work for a two-person team. Sloped, rocky terrain or sites requiring concrete foundations add 1 to 3 extra days.
Can a fence be installed in winter?
Yes, provided the ground is not deeply frozen. Swiss professionals are accustomed to winter conditions and adapt their techniques (quick-setting concrete, screwed base plates). However, the ideal period is between March and November for optimal working comfort.
Which fence is best for a swimming pool in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, securing a swimming pool is strongly recommended, and some cantons make it compulsory. A fence at least 1.10 m high with a self-closing gate is the standard. Rigid welded panels or aluminium fences are the most suitable, as they provide optimal security without blocking the view. Chain-link fencing is not recommended for this purpose because its flexibility makes it easier for a child to climb.
Can a metal trellis fence be planted with climbing vegetation?
Yes, metal trellis makes an excellent support for climbing plants. In Western Switzerland, ivy, clematis, winter jasmine and Virginia creeper are particularly well suited. Rigid panels can also accommodate natural privacy screens (heather, wicker) or synthetic ones. If you want to create a full green screen, see our garden creation service for a harmonious project.
How do I maintain a metal fence exposed to road salt?
In areas where roads are salted in winter (common in Switzerland), salt spray can accelerate corrosion. Choose aluminium or hot-dip galvanised steel models, which are more resistant. A rinse with clean water in spring is usually enough to remove salt residue. For standard steel fences, a preventive anti-rust treatment every 5 years will extend their lifespan.