How Much Does Timber Fencing Cost? [2024]

Everyone loves a timber fence. They’re relatively easy to install, provide the perfect amount of privacy and add a lovely natural look to any outdoor space. They can also be stained or painted so they fit in with the look and feel of your home.

Read on to learn more about:

• How much it costs to install timber fencing, 
• The types of timber you can use for fencing
• What your responsibilities are when building a timber fence
• What to look for in a fence builder
• How to hire a fence builder

How much does timber fencing cost?

One of the biggest influences on how much it will cost to install a timber fence is the type of wood you use. Prices can range from $34 - $350 per metre, so choosing the right timber for your fence will significantly impact the cost. Some approximate timber costs are:

• Treated pine paling fence: $75 - $120 per metre
• Treated pine timber slat fence: $280 - $350 per metre
• Pre-primed treated pine fence: $320 per metre
• Hardwood paling fence: $80 - $125 per metre
• 1.5m hardwood timber paling fence $34 - $40 per metre
• 1.5m hardwood Merabu fence $330 per metre
• 1.5m picket fence $63 - $97 per metre

How do builders calculate the cost of a timber fence?

When fencing contractors quote on your job they will consider several factors:

• Type of timber used 
• Access to your property
• The height of the fence (standard heights include: 0.9m, 1.2m, 1.5m, 1.8m and 2.1m)
• Soil type
• Property contours
• The number of materials required (longer runs can work out cheaper)
• If painting or staining is required
• What type of foundations are required for supports
• Old fence removal

If your soil is very soft or rocky, your job could incur a greater cost in extra labour and time. Also, note that fence heights above 2.4m may require scaffolding that will incur an additional charge.

How much does timber fencing installation cost?

Each fence installation will be different and so no two jobs will cost the same. Depending on the factors above, a timber fence can cost around $1,500 - $4,000 to install. 

Each fence builder will have their own rates and these can be affected by the state standards. Some rates you may pay include:

• New South Wales - $90 to $110
• Queensland - $60 to $80
• Victoria - $55 to $75

What type of timber should I use for my fencing?

In general, there are two main options when choosing timber for your fence. Though there is a range of species that are used for fencing, they will generally fall into either softwoods or hardwoods. 

Treated softwood-treated pine is cheaper than most hardwoods. The treatment process involves impregnating the timber with a preservative which gives the timber resistance to weathering and termites for the life of the fence. Once treated the pine can be stained, painted or left with its natural look. There are two timber ratings for treated timber.

• H3 for use above ground use (rails) and 
• H4 for timber that is going to be used below ground (fence posts). 

If you want it to last it needs to be treated to be rated H4 or more to last outdoors and in the ground.

Hardwood timbers – Hardwoods are typically more durable with less, if any, treatment. They are usually classified by their durability with Class 1 (ironbark, grey gum, yellow cedar) being the hardiest and Class IV (Tasmanian oak, Victorian ash, radiata pine) the least. 

If you are treating your timber fence, then make sure it complies with Australian Standard AS1604, which details how timber, plywood and wood-based products should be treated. 

Read more: How to choose the right garden fence

Who is responsible for a shared fence?

The question of who is responsible for a shared or boundary fence has been causing disputes for as long as people have been neighbours. The most common disputes relate to who pays, the location of the fence and if the work is necessary.

If a fence is damaged or needs repair, the costs of a replacement fence are normally shared between neighbours. Make sure to speak to your neighbour first to make sure they're on the same page about it needing to be replaced, the type of fencing you both want and how big it should be. But there are exceptions to this, such as if you want a higher fence than is required by local laws. 

If you are thinking of replacing a common boundary fence, take the time to chat with your neighbour first. This is likely to iron out 99 per cent of all disputes. If you and your neighbour cannot agree on your common fence, then you have the option of applying for a Fencing Order. A Fencing Order is a court or tribunal order about what fencing work should be done and how the costs of that fencing work should be shared. It is basically there if you can’t work out a solution with your neighbour.

Read more: Resolving a fencing dispute

Does my timber fence builder need to be licensed?

It depends on where you live - some states have a specific licence class for fencing or it may be covered by another licence, such as a builder or carpenter. In NSW for example, carpenters can erect timber, metal and prefabricated glass fencing. In other states, a builder’s licence may be required. If in doubt check with your local council or licensing authority.

Note: If you are fencing a pool then it needs to comply with the relevant regulations that govern this where you live. It is illegal to have a pool that is not fenced properly.

Understanding fencing red tape

One of the most common questions regarding fencing, and building any significant structure, is, do I need council approval for my fence? 

The answer will vary depending on where you live, but generally, new fences will require an application to the council. This is because there are regulations around the height and positioning of fences. 

It’s best to ask your fencing contractor what rules or regulations apply in your area, or approach your local council’s planning department.

Hiring a fence builder

When it comes time to hire a timber fence builder, take time to make sure they are right for your job. Some questions to ask them include:

• Are you licensed or qualified?
• Are you insured?
• How long will my job take?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• Do you have references I can follow up on?
• Can I see examples of your work?

Read: Comparing fencing contractors

Getting quotes for a timber fence

When comparing quotes, don't just compare prices. Compare the workmanship of the fencing contractors you get quotes from. Don’t forget to include details about the terrain and anything else that might affect the installation cost. Doing this will enable fencing contractors to give you more accurate initial quotes and you won't be disappointed after they inspect your property and give you their final quote.

The best way of finding out the cost of your fencing project is to get quotes from at least three local timber fence builders. This will give you a sense of what market rates currently are. Read here to know more about timber fence extension.