Recommendations - building a new fence

Hi everyone.

I'm planning on starting the process of building a new fence in my back yard. The current one is at least 30 years old and is falling apart in many places. It has served its tenure and I believe it is time to get on to the next one. My question is twofold:

First, has anyone out there had good/bad experiences with fencing companies lately? I want to start getting some bids rolling and want to get an idea of what to expect out there.

Second, I was wondering if anyone is familiar with laws/codes of fence building. I have an easement on one side of my house for a water main and am unsure on how to navigate the legalities. Who would I talk to to get a better idea of where I can and cannot build a new fence in my property?

Thanks in advance!