Pulling down an old wooden fence might look like a straightforward weekend job, but a few important checks beforehand can save you from legal headaches, neighbourly disputes, and even health risks. Here's what every NZ homeowner should confirm before the first post comes out of the ground.
1. Confirm the Boundary Line
Before you touch anything, make sure you know exactly where your property boundary sits. Removing a fence that turns out to be on your neighbour's land — or on the legal boundary — can lead to disputes and potential liability. Check your Certificate of Title and any survey plans held by your solicitor or local council. If you're unsure, a registered surveyor can peg the boundary for you. Never assume the existing fence is in the right place — older fences are often slightly off.
2. Talk to Your Neighbour First
If the fence sits on or near a shared boundary, it may be a boundary fence under the Fencing Act 1978. This means both you and your neighbour may have rights and obligations regarding its removal and replacement. Removing a shared fence without agreement can create legal problems. Have an honest conversation first, get any agreement in writing, and consider whether you'll need to replace the fence — and who pays for what. Your local council or Citizens Advice Bureau can explain the Fencing Act if you need guidance.
3. Check Whether a Building Consent Is Required
In most cases, removing a standard residential fence does not require a building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004. However, there are exceptions — for example, retaining walls combined with fencing, or fences over 2.5 metres high in some situations. Always confirm with your local council before starting work, as rules can vary by district. You can find general guidance on consent exemptions at MBIE Building Performance.
4. Check for Hazardous Materials
This is one of the most important steps, especially with older fences.
Lead Paint
Fences built or painted before the 1980s may be coated in lead-based paint. Sanding, cutting, or demolishing painted timber can release toxic lead dust. If you suspect lead paint, use appropriate PPE (P2 respirator, gloves, eye protection) and follow safe work practices. WorkSafe NZ has guidance on working safely with lead paint.
Treated Timber
Older fence posts and palings may have been treated with CCA (copper chrome arsenate), which contains arsenic. This was common in NZ until the early 2000s. CCA-treated timber is typically a greenish colour. Do not burn it — burning releases toxic fumes. Dispose of it at an approved facility; check with your local council's waste management team for drop-off options.
Asbestos
While less common in fencing, some older properties used fibrous cement sheeting (which may contain asbestos) as fence panels or infill. If you see any cement-sheet panels, do not cut or break them until you've had them tested. WorkSafe NZ sets out the rules for managing asbestos safely.
5. Locate Underground Services
Fence posts are often concreted in deep, and digging them out can strike underground cables, water pipes, or gas lines. Before you dig, contact Dial Before You Dig (0800 248 344 or dialbeforeyoudig.co.nz) to get service location information for your property. Striking a power cable or gas line is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
6. Check for Attached Structures or Utilities
Sometimes fences have power cables, irrigation lines, or lighting attached or stapled to them. Inspect the full length of the fence before pulling anything down. If you find electrical cables attached to the fence, do not cut or remove them yourself — this is restricted electrical work and must be handled by a registered electrician. Check the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) to find a licensed professional.
7. Plan Your Waste Disposal
A full fence can generate a surprising amount of timber waste. Plan ahead:
- Untreated timber can often go to a green waste or timber recycling facility, or be repurposed.
- CCA-treated timber must go to an approved disposal site — do not burn or bury it.
- Painted timber with lead paint should be double-bagged and disposed of according to your council's hazardous waste guidelines.
- Hire a skip bin if you have a large volume of material. Check with your council whether a skip on the road verge requires a permit.
8. Think About Safety on the Day
Even a simple fence removal has physical risks:
- Wear steel-capped boots, gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask as a minimum.
- Old nails and staples are sharp — watch your hands and feet.
- Rotted posts can fall unexpectedly — don't stand in the fall zone.
- Work with a helper where possible, especially for longer fence runs.
When to Call a Professional
Consider hiring a qualified demolition contractor or fencer if:
- The fence is large, heavy, or structurally complex.
- You've found or suspect hazardous materials (lead paint, CCA timber, asbestos sheeting).
- The fence is close to underground services or structures.
- There's a boundary or legal dispute with your neighbour.
- You need the old fence replaced at the same time.
A professional will have the right equipment, insurance, and knowledge of safe disposal requirements. You can find experienced local demolition contractors and fencers on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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