How to Start a Post Hole & Fencing Business
Auger work, fence posts, deck footings, and more
Post hole drilling shows the widest regional price spread of any skid steer service. Alberta operators charge $10-$15/hole while Ontario companies charge $35-$45/hole. This creates significant margin opportunities in Ontario, BC, and Quebec - or high-volume potential in Alberta. Startup costs are lower than other services ($25,000-$50,000) since compact machines work well.
$10-$50
Per hole range
$200-$800
Minimum charge
$2K-$5K
Auger attachment
Apr-Nov
Peak season
Why Pricing Varies So Much
Alberta vs Ontario: A 3x Price Difference
$10-$15/hole
Alberta: High competition, high volume from new subdivisions, easier soil conditions, no PST. Operators make it up on volume.
$35-$45/hole
Ontario: Less competition, rockier soil, 13% HST, mandatory WSIB. Higher margins per hole.
Common Post Hole Jobs
Residential Fence Posts
6"-8" diameter, 3'-4' deep. Standard residential fence.
$10-$45/hole + minimum
Deck Footings
8"-10" diameter, 4'+ deep for frost line. Often includes concrete.
$75-$150/hole (Ontario)
Farm Fence Lines
High-volume work. Often 50-200+ holes per job.
Volume pricing negotiable
Signpost Installation
Commercial signage, real estate signs, etc.
Flat rate per sign typical
Equipment Requirements
Base Machine (Compact Works Well)
Post hole work favors compact, maneuverable machines. Backyard gate access is often 36"-42" wide.
Auger Attachment
Planetary drive auger: $2,000-$5,000 new, $1,000-$3,000 used.
Auger bits: $150-$400 each (6", 8", 10", 12").
Rental: $115-$200/day if starting out.
Total Startup Cost
$35,000 - $65,000
Compact skid steer + auger + trailer + tow vehicle
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