How do I start the process of putting a fence up around my yard?

Question

I know i need to get a surveyor.

Answer 1

For any project start with
"Plan your work and Work your plan"
first do the research for cost and city information.

Some cities require building permit and have guidelines for heights of fence. I live outside city limits and have no such ordinance.
I have never heard of hiring a surveyor for the fence you should have some boundary markers on the property. Look to see if you have any large rocks or stakes along the edge of the property. I have them and they are never to be moved.
You also need to ask your neighbor's if you can access their yards for building purposes.
Remember the ugly side of the fence is your side...the nice side faces the neighbors.

...........Fencing Lessons.....................
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/knowhow/yardandgarden/article/0,16417,219983,00.html

Answer 2

Know the city bylaws regarding the type of fence that you are allowed, how high and the location(a brick wall cannot be on the property line- for it is classed as a permanent structure and must be entirely on your property and in 5-6 inches of the line) and when building a fence the good side must face the neighbor(you get the posts and the knots) for you are not allowed to depreciate the value of the neighbors yard and a fence cannot be any higher than 6 ft. on the neighbors side are just a few general knowledge points that seems to be universally standard.
If you do it wrong, they, the city can have you tear it down(your own expense).
So, knowing that and pricing out materials and knowing the other steps of the actual fence building - prepping the wood, pouring concrete or whatever you plan and you are on your way.

Answer 3

I agree with checking with the local ordinances about permits required. Also ask about any Utility "right of ways" that may be present. They sometimes have easements that are needed for work on the utility. Some areas also require a certain distance from property lines and some allow building on the line.

Answer 4

Permit from the City!!!! $20 here.