Clearance & Ground Work
Fence Line ClearanceAcross Stafford& Staffordshire.
Strip every bramble, hedge stump and overhanging branch from the boundary — ready for new fencing to go straight in, square and level.
✓ Builder & fencer ready · Tipper on every job · £5m insured
What is Fence Line Clearance?
Fence line clearance prepares a property boundary for new fencing. That means stripping all vegetation back at least 30cm either side of the line, removing old hedge stumps, dealing with overhanging branches from neighbouring trees, and leaving the ground level enough for posts to be driven straight.
It's a routine sub-contracted service for fencers across Staffordshire — we clear, they install. Direct domestic work too, where homeowners are arranging fencing themselves.
Most domestic fence-line jobs (up to 50m) are completed in one day. Longer perimeters or commercial work scheduled per project.
Who It's For
- Homeowners arranging new fencing
- Fencers needing pre-installation site clearance
- Builders working on boundary changes
- Commercial sites refreshing perimeter
When It's Needed
- New fence due to be installed
- Old hedge being replaced with fence
- Boundary needs to be defined before survey or sale
- Overgrown hedge has crushed an existing fence
What Happens If You Leave It
Fencers turning up to find an unprepared site charge for clearance time at fencing day rates — usually 50–100% more than dedicated clearance crews. Pre-clearing saves money.
Trying to install fence posts through old hedge roots or buried stumps is impossible. Posts won't sit square, footings can't be dug to depth, and the fence sags within months.
Our 5-Step Process
Free Site Inspection
We visit, listen and assess access, hazards and surrounding structures before quoting a single penny.
Written Diagnosis & Quote
You get a clear scope of works, fixed price and method statement — usually within 24 hours of the visit.
Scheduled Visit
We agree a date that suits you, confirm the day before and arrive on time with the right kit and crew.
Safe Execution
Risk assessments and permits handled. Roping, rigging and cutting carried out to NPTC and BS 3998 standards.
Clearance & Sign-Off
All arisings removed (or chipped/logged for you), site swept clean, photos sent and invoice issued.
Why Choose RJ Hutchinson
Fence-Ready Finish
Stripped, level, ready for posts to drive straight in.
Old Hedges Removed
Stumps ground or dug out — no underground obstacles.
Overhang Trimmed Back
Neighbour-side overhang cut to legal limit (boundary line).
Coordinate With Fencer
Direct handover so the next crew arrives to a perfect site.
Tipper Standard
All vegetation away in a single visit.
Multi-Trade Friendly
Builders, fencers and landscapers work with us regularly.
Fence Line Clearance: The Full Detail
What 'Fence Ready' Actually Means
A fencer needs: clear access either side of the line; ground level enough that posts sit at consistent depth; no underground obstacles in the post line (old roots, paving); clear sight to the neighbour's existing fence or boundary marker; and access for any spoil from post hole digging.
Our standard fence-line prep includes stripping vegetation 30cm both sides, grinding hedge stumps to 8" below grade in the post line, removing arisings and identifying any underground services that the fencer will need to work around.
Boundary Disputes & Overhanging Branches
Common law allows you to cut back overhanging branches to the boundary line — but you must offer the cut material back to the neighbour. We handle the cut and document the offer to keep things friendly.
If the boundary line itself is disputed, get a chartered surveyor before any clearance. We'll happily wait.
Every job is covered by £5m Public Liability Insurance and carried out under method statements and risk assessments tailored to your site.
Fence Line Clearance — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does fence line clearance cost?+
Typically £200–£800 for a domestic perimeter. Quoted by length.
Do you remove hedge stumps?+
Yes — ground out to 8" below grade in the post line as standard.
Can you trim my neighbour's overhang?+
Yes — to the boundary line. We document the cut material offer to your neighbour.
Will my fencer work with you?+
Yes — we coordinate timings directly with most local fencers.
Do you handle the waste?+
Yes — chipped or tipped away, included.
How long does it take?+
Most domestic jobs: 1 day. Longer perimeters scheduled per length.
What about underground services?+
We identify known services and flag them to your fencer before posts go in.
Are you insured?+
Fully — £5m PL.
Related Services
Ready For a Free Quote on Fence Line Clearance?
Free site visit, fixed-price written quote, no pressure. Call directly or send a few details — most quotes back within 24 hours.