If your garden is overlooked by neighbouring windows, raised patios or extensions, choosing the right fence height is essential for privacy and comfort. The goal is to create a boundary that provides effective screening without breaching planning rules or overwhelming the space visually. In most York back gardens, the maximum height allowed without planning permission is 2 metres. This height is ideal for reducing visibility into your garden while maintaining a tidy and balanced look.

Start by assessing which areas of your garden feel most exposed. If neighbouring windows look directly into your main seating area, patio or lawn, a taller fence—close to the permitted 2-metre limit—usually offers the best solution. Solid designs such as closeboard fencing or composite panels provide the strongest privacy because they have no gaps between boards.

In some situations, a slightly lower fence combined with trellis extensions can achieve the perfect balance. Trellis allows light through while blocking sightlines, and also gives you the opportunity to grow climbing plants for additional natural screening. This approach is attractive and avoids making a small garden feel enclosed.

If your garden is overlooked at different heights—for example, by a raised deck next door—you may want to vary fence height strategically. Taller sections can be installed only where required, with lower sections elsewhere to keep the garden open. Decorative panels, slatted screens and angled privacy panels can also target specific sightlines.

During your survey, we analyse your exposure points, discuss your privacy requirements and recommend the ideal height and style to create a private, comfortable garden that complies with local regulations.