If you’re planning on getting a new fence installed, then you’ll first need to remove the older one standing in its way. Chances are, your old fence is flimsy, rusted, dented, or damaged in some way. If so, it’s the perfect time to get a replacement, so you can strengthen your home’s privacy, security, and appearance.
This post explains everything you’ll need to know about getting a fence removed from an Adelaide property. We’ll discuss why you should hire professionals to remove the fence and how much the job normally costs.
Why You Should Avoid Trying To Remove The Fence Yourself
Removing a fence is a delicate process.
We don’t recommend homeowners attempt to tear it down themselves, as it could result in unnecessary mess and trouble with the council or neighbours. It’s not as simple as finding something heavy, and swinging it at the fence like a maniac.
If you’re not a fencer yourself, we encourage you to hire contractors for the removal.
Why Hire Contractors To Remove Your Old Fence?
Fencing contractors know how the fence is built, and therefore, how it can get removed quickly, safely, and with as little mess as possible.
That’s the main reason.
But if you need more reason not to attempt it yourself, we could also talk about the various laws and regulations surrounding fence removals. There are permissions needed and law-abiding ways to remove a fence, which contractors know about.
We don’t want the cops knocking at your door with a hefty fine in their hands.
And that could very well happen if you try removing the fence yourself.
(Especially if you share your fence with a neighbour)
But even if you don’t care about safety or getting in trouble:
Wouldn’t it just be nice to have someone else deal with all the mess for you?
The 4-Step Fence Removal Process
Removing an old fence is the first step in preparing for a new fence installation. Although this is an oversimplified explanation of the process, I want to explain the 4 steps for removing a fence.
Step 1: Remove Plants Or Shrubs That Are In The Way.
In most cases, there are trees, shrubs, or some other plants that get in the way of the removal process. These will need to be cut back before we can get to the fence. This vegetation is dumped alongside the removed fence materials.
We had to take a few plant loads to the dump during one of our last jobs:

Step 2: Remove The Fence Sheets
Using appropriate tools, we’d remove the fence sheets from their posts and rails. Carefully, we’d apply force with a heavy object to help detach the sheets without damaging the nearby area.
Our go-to tools are either a mattock or a sledgehammer because they’re heavy and precise.
Step 3: Take Down The Posts & Rails
Once the sheets are off, we focus on taking out the timber or metal posts and rails. If it’s an older fence, the posts and rails might be made from different materials. No matter the materials, the goal is to remove whatever the fence sheets were attached to.
Once that’s done, the entire fence will now be dismantled and ready for step 4.
Step 4: Disposing & Dumping Unwanted Materials
With everything removed, we take the materials to a dumping site for disposal. We load everything up in our ute and handle the dumping for you. Our quotes usually include dumping fees, while keeping in mind the amount of materials needing to be dumped.
Alternatively, you could arrange a skip bin for your property.
Why Get a Fence Removed In The First Place?
Whichever way you decide to go about the disposal, the purpose of removing an old fence is to open up space for a new one. Once we’ve got the line cleared, the removal process is finished and we’re ready to set a string line up for the new fence!
Anything in the way of the new fence will need to be cleared, not just the old fence.
That may include plants, trees, or stumps.

Types Of Fences We Can Remove
We have the expertise and the tools to remove all types of fencing commonly found in Adelaide properties, including:
- Wood fences
- Metal fences
- Timber fences
- Good Neighbour fences
- Post and rail fences
- Tubular fences
- Chain-link fences
- Picket fences
- Brush fences
If you can’t see the specific type of fence you’re looking to get removed, don’t hesitate to contact us and see if we can help.
(But I’m fairly certain I covered all fences in that list)
How Much Do Fence Removals Cost In Adelaide?
The cost of fence removals in Adelaide ranges from $500 to $1,000, including dumping fees.
The total price depends on factors such as the number of trips to the dump required, the length of the fence being removed, and the time needed for the removal process. Each fence is unique, so we provide quotes tailored to our customers’ unique situations.
You can get a cheaper quote by handling the dumping yourself, such as through a skip bin.
Ready To Get That Fence Removed?
If you’re ready to remove your old fence and make way for something stronger, then reach out to us via our contact form or give Nick a call at 043 999 8295. We’ll start by arranging a time to meet you at your project site, and then we can work out a quote from there!
It’s a super simple process.