Garden fence owners could be 'breaking law' due to little-known height rule
Garden owners have been cautioned about a little-known rule that could see them 'breaking the law' if their garden fence exceeds a certain height. Gardening experts suggest several ways to maintain privacy from "nosy neighbours" without violating any regulations.
Garden Buildings Direct, a team of gardening experts, has shared five methods to enhance privacy in your garden. A representative from Garden Buildings Direct stated: "We know lack of privacy is a problem many people face in their gardens."
"As the weather begins to warm up and families plan to spend more time outdoors during the spring and summer months, now is the ideal time to find your solution. You might consider increasing your fence height, but remember, you'll need planning permission for any fences taller than two metres."
"There are other alternatives such as planting privacy hedges or evergreen trees, and adding perennial borders around seating areas or patios."
It's worth noting that while you can build or create your fence to any height, even more than 2 meters, you will need to obtain planning permission from the relevant UK authorities at your local land registry offices. Without their approval, you're only permitted a fence up to 6'6".", reports Birmingham Live.
Gardening gurus have recommended shrubs and small trees as the "perfect option" for crafting privacy hedges. They also suggest that one of the "most effective ways" to ensure seclusion in your garden is by increasing the height of your hedge.
However, they caution that the legal limit for a fence without planning permission is two metres. Should you wish to exceed this height, you'll need to secure the appropriate permissions. For those seeking additional cover, perennial borders and trees are viable options.
The experts advise: "If you are thinking of adding large trees into your garden to help with privacy, consider what sort of tree will work best for you."
They further explain that deciduous trees are ideal for summer privacy, while evergreens offer year-round seclusion but may result in deeper shade and potentially block sunlight during warmer months.
