5 Things to Consider Before Installing a Privacy Fence

Every homeowner wants to feel safe, secure, and comfortable. Unfortunately, if your home is in a crowded neighborhood or along a busy street, prying eyes have a front-row seat to you and your family’s everyday life.

Privacy fences deter unwanted onlookers and potential thieves and help create a sense of freedom and relaxation that may have previously been missing. This article covers five essential considerations to keep in mind before beginning your privacy fence installation project.

Zoning Codes and HOA Regulations

Whether they were developed for a good reason or just to make things complicated, it’s crucial to review zoning codes and HOA regulations before beginning your privacy fence project.

Homeowners know that zoning laws exist but occasionally need help finding the necessary information. A quick call to the city department is an excellent place to start. Contact your local municipality for the most accurate zoning information and you’ll avoid many potential issues during the building process.

Determine the Fence Material and Style

Most privacy fences will be wood or PVC, but there are several ways to get creative with your design. For example, you could add a gate to your fence, so you’re not sacrificing convenience for privacy. Or, some homeowners may want a specific section of their fence to be a different material than the primary choice.

Common choices for wood privacy fences include “shadowbox” and solid board designs. You can also create an elevated look by adding French goth-style posts and diagonal lattice to the top (pictured below), creating a unique aesthetic.

Choosing the Right Fencing Company for the Job

Investing in a fence for your property is a financial commitment, and doing your homework before choosing a contractor is crucial. There’s no substitute for experience, and utilizing a company with a decades-long reputation for quality work gives you the confidence you deserve. If you could use some guidance in your search for a fencing installer, give us a call – we might know a guy.

Find Your Property Line (and consider your neighbors)

Most laws state that a fence should remain at least two to eight inches from a neighbor’s property line, but it’s best to err on the side of leaving more distance than less.

Your local county recorder or assessor’s office should have the property line information you need, but most will have the information online. Once you find where your property begins and ends on one website, document, etc., cross-reference it with another resource, so there’s no doubt you have accurate information.

Additionally, you should always hire a surveyor if you want to make sure your property lines are accurate, and in the right place. While the property records are correct, most homeowners without a background in this specialized area cannot interpret them correctly without a surveyor.

Consider Sight Lines

Parents with young children who frequently play out in the yard or driveway may worry that a privacy fence could prevent them from keeping an eye on their kids. With that in mind, it’s important to think about the sight lines you want to leave open.

For example, if your driveway is the site of neighborhood pickup basketball games, consider your design when installing your fence so that it won’t block your vision of that specific area of your property. You may even want to add a small gated section in areas where maintaining a sight line is essential.

Your Project Starts at Mills Fence

When investing in your property, choosing a reputable company is essential. Mills Fence works with homeowners to meet their unique specifications while providing outstanding service throughout the installation. In addition, our team of experts can help you get the job done efficiently while staying on budget.

Get in touch with a Mills Fence representative today to learn more about our full range of products and services and start planning your fence installation. You’ll quickly see why we’ve been the most trusted name in the industry throughout the Tri-State area for more than 40 years.