Fort Smith Fence Pros makes fence replacement in Fort Smith, AR simpler by sending your project to an independent local fence contractor who handles the old fence and the new one in a single job. Share the length, the material you have now and what you want next, and the contractor follows up with a free estimate.
Replacing a fence is also a chance to change it. Many homeowners swap a tired picket fence for six-foot privacy, move to vinyl to stop staining every few years, or add a wider gate for a mower or trailer.
Signs your old fence needs replacing, not repairing
- Several posts move when you push on them, or are soft just below the soil line.
- The fence leans along long stretches, not only in one spot.
- Boards are gray, split and cupped on most panels, so new wood would stand out.
- You have paid for repairs on the same fence more than once in the last few years.
- Chain link has rusted through at the bottom or the top rail is bent in many places.
If only one side of the yard shows these signs, replacing that side and repairing the rest can be a sensible middle path.
Tear-out, haul-off and the new fence line
Removing the old fence
Old posts are often set in concrete, and pulling those footings is the heaviest part of the work. National cost guide Angi lists fence removal at roughly $3 to $5 per linear foot, or about $450 to $750 for a 150-foot fence. Many contractors fold removal into the replacement price, so ask whether it is included.
Using the same line or a new one
New posts usually go a few inches beside the old footings rather than in the same holes. If you are unsure where your property line is, a survey before the new fence goes in can prevent a dispute later. A replacement is the easiest time to correct a fence that was built in the wrong spot.
Choosing a replacement fence material
Wood
Pressure-treated pine keeps costs down and suits most styles. Cedar costs more but resists rot and weathers to a soft gray.
Vinyl
Vinyl costs more up front but does not need paint or stain, which appeals to many owners after years of maintaining wood.
Chain link and aluminum
Chain link is practical for large back yards and pets. Aluminum gives an open, finished look for front yards and pool areas.
Each material has its own page on this site with more detail on styles and pricing.
Permits, HOAs and historic districts in Fort Smith
The City of Fort Smith's building permit FAQ says a building permit is not required for a residential fence at this time. Zoning rules, easements and private covenants can still apply, so confirm the details for your address with the city before you build.
Many newer subdivisions have HOA rules on fence height, material and color. Homes in Fort Smith's historic districts, including Belle Grove, Fishback, May-Lecta-Sweet, Garrison Avenue and Fitzgerald, may face added review, so check with the city's preservation staff first. Utility lines must be marked through Arkansas 811 at least two working days before digging.
What to ask before signing a fence replacement quote
- Does the price include removal and disposal of the old fence and concrete?
- How deep will posts be set, and will they be set in concrete?
- What happens if a footing hits rock or a buried root?
- Will the old gate hardware be reused, or is new hardware included?
- How long will the yard be open while the old fence is out?
Ask for each quote in writing so you can compare them line by line.
Common questions
How much does it cost to replace a fence in Fort Smith, AR?
Replacement combines removal with a new installation. Angi lists removal at about $3 to $5 per linear foot, and its installed ranges run roughly $10 to $45 per foot for wood, $8 to $40 for chain link and $15 to $40 for vinyl. These are national estimates. A contractor needs to see your yard to give a real price.
Do I need a permit to replace a fence in Fort Smith?
The City of Fort Smith's building permit FAQ says a building permit is not required for a fence at this time. Zoning, easement and HOA rules can still affect what you build, and historic district properties may need review. Confirm with the city and your HOA before work starts.
How long does a fence replacement take?
A typical backyard replacement often takes a few days from tear-out to finished fence, though large yards, rocky ground or custom gates add time. Posts set in concrete need time to cure before panels go on. The contractor can give you a schedule with the estimate, including when the yard will be open.
Can I keep my dog in the yard during a fence replacement?
Not safely while the old fence is out. Plan to keep pets inside or on a leash for the days the yard is open. Some contractors work one side at a time to shorten the gap, so ask about phasing the job when you request your estimate.