What the cost sites publish
| Item | Published range | Source (date shown) |
|---|---|---|
| Old fence removal | $3 – $5 per LF, or $450 – $750 for 150 ft | HomeAdvisor (Jun 20, 2026) |
| Old fence removal and disposal | $10 – $20 per LF | HomeGuide (Feb 3, 2026) |
| Removal and disposal, 100–200 LF | $600 – $800 | Fixr (Jan 31, 2025) |
| Replace a fence | $1,775 – $4,565 | HomeAdvisor (Jun 20, 2026) |
| Replace a fence, incl. removal | $3,600 – $7,800 | Fixr (Jan 31, 2025) |
| Replacement, wood and vinyl | $30 – $80 per LF | HomeGuide (Feb 3, 2026) |
HomeGuide's install-time table lists replacements at 19 to 22 hours per 100 feet, compared with 13 to 16 hours for a new wood picket or privacy fence. The extra time is the tear out.
What makes tear out expensive
- Footings. Old posts usually come out with a chunk of concrete on each one. Pulling them is heavy work; cutting them off below grade is faster but can put new holes in a bad spot. Say which on the quote.
- Disposal. HomeGuide ties removal cost to fence type and hauling distance. Dump fees and trailer trips are real costs. Chain link and metal may have scrap value; treated wood usually does not.
- Attached stuff. Vines, shrubs grown into the fence, and neighbor-side additions slow everything down. HomeGuide lists tree, stump, and shrub removal as separate prep costs.
- Shared fences. If the old fence sits on or near the line, the neighbor may have a say. Get it in writing before anything comes down.
- Reuse. Fixr notes that posts in usable condition can sometimes stay when the new fence is the same kind. Only reuse posts you would warranty.
When the homeowner wants to tear it out
HomeAdvisor suggests homeowners can save money by removing the old fence themselves. That is fine, but put the terms in writing: what "removed" means (footings out, holes filled, debris gone), the date it must be done by, and what happens if your crew arrives and it is not. Also remind them that pulling footings is digging, and 811 still applies. See our 811 locate checklist.
Lines a replacement quote should carry
- Removal scope: panels, posts, footings pulled or cut below grade.
- Haul off and disposal, or left at curb.
- Any posts reused, and their warranty status.
- Shrub or vine clearing along the line.
- Then the new fence, line by line as with any install.
Homeowners can check the removal line with the fence quote checklist on AI Fence Design.