Removing an old fence
Fence removal cost in Australia
Taking down an old fence looks simple, but cost depends on the material, how it is fixed, access for disposal and whether the fence contains anything hazardous. Here is what to expect and what to check first.
What affects fence removal cost
- Material: timber palings come down differently to steel sheets, brick or concrete.
- Footings: posts set in concrete take more effort to remove.
- Length and height of the fence.
- Access for people, tools and a skip or trailer.
- Disposal: tip fees and distances, and whether material can be recycled.
- Hazardous materials such as asbestos-containing fibre cement sheeting.
| Item | Illustrative allowance |
|---|---|
| Remove and dispose of an existing fence | $12 – $30 per metre |
| Pedestrian gate, supplied and fitted | $250 – $650 each |
| Sloping or uneven land | +8% to +25% on the fence run |
| Under 10 m (small-job loading) | ×1.15 on the per-metre rate |
| 10 to 60 m (reference) | ×1.00 on the per-metre rate |
| 60 to 200 m (scale allowance) | ×0.95 on the per-metre rate |
| Over 200 m (scale allowance) | ×0.92 on the per-metre rate |
Illustrative placeholderThese figures are placeholders requiring validation. They are not live contractor prices or a quote.
Warning: old fibre cement (fibro) fences
Older fibre cement sheet fences, common in some homes built before the late 1980s, can contain asbestos. Do not cut, drill, break, sand or pressure-wash suspected asbestos-containing material. Asbestos removal rules differ by state; use a suitably licensed professional where required and check your state’s official guidance.
Before you remove a fence
- Confirm who owns or shares the fence; a dividing fence is not yours alone to remove.
- Check for services near the fence line with Before You Dig Australia (1100.com.au).
- Think about pets, children and pool security while the fence is down, and especially if it forms part of a pool barrier.
- Plan the replacement so there is no long gap in security or privacy.
Bundle removal with the new fence
Most contractors prefer to remove and replace in the same visit, which can reduce scheduling and disposal costs. Ask for removal as a separate line so you can compare.
Related guides
- Fence replacement costReplacing a fence: removal, neighbours, dividing fence law and cost factors.
- Fence installation costWhat a fence installation involves, what drives cost and how to compare quotes.
- Fencing costs in AustraliaThe national overview: what drives fencing prices and how to budget.
- Timber fencing costTimber paling fences: price drivers, treatment, maintenance and bushfire notes.
Useful official sources
Rules change and differ by council and by property. Use these official sources to confirm what applies to you before you build. Links point to each agency’s main site; use its search for the relevant topic.
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Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a fence?
The calculator uses an illustrative per-metre allowance for removal and disposal, shown above as a placeholder. Real prices depend on material, access and disposal.
Can I remove a fence myself?
For simple timber fences, many people do. Check ownership and services first, and do not handle suspected asbestos sheeting.
What happens to the old fence material?
Contractors typically take it to a tip or recycling facility. Steel can often be recycled; treated timber disposal rules vary by council and waste facility.
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