Complete Guide to Privacy Fence Installation in Atlanta

Want some privacy in your backyard? There's nothing quite like being able to enjoy outdoor space without feeling on display for the neighbors.

Privacy fences are the most popular type of fence installed in Atlanta. With years of experience helping homeowners, this guide covers exactly what works (and what doesn't) in the area.

This guide covers everything you need to know - from picking the right material to dealing with permits to keeping your fence looking great for years.

What Makes a Fence a "Privacy Fence"?

A privacy fence is any fence that blocks the view into your yard. Simple as that.

Most privacy fences are:

• 6 feet tall (though 8 feet is becoming popular)
• Built with boards right next to each other (no gaps)
• Solid all the way to the ground or close to it

The goal is to give you a space where you can't see out and nobody can see in.

Best Materials for Privacy Fences in Atlanta

Wood

This is the classic choice. About 70% of privacy fences in Atlanta are wood.

Cedar: This is my top recommendation for Atlanta. Cedar naturally resists rot and insects. It handles our humidity better than other woods. Yes, it costs more ($20-30 per foot), but it lasts longer.

Pine: More affordable ($15-22 per foot) but needs more maintenance. If you keep it stained and sealed, pine can last a good 10-15 years.

Pros: Natural look, affordable, easy to customize

Cons: Needs maintenance every 2-3 years, can rot if neglected

Vinyl

Vinyl privacy fences have gotten really popular in the last few years.

Cost: $20-40 per foot

Pros: Zero maintenance, never needs painting, lasts 30+ years, great for humid climates

Cons: Higher upfront cost, limited colors, can look a bit too perfect (some people don't like that)

Composite

This is basically wood fibers mixed with plastic. It's newer on the scene but gaining fans.

Cost: $30-45 per foot

Pros: Looks like wood, low maintenance, eco-friendly, handles Atlanta weather great

Cons: Most expensive option, limited availability

Popular Privacy Fence Styles

Board-on-Board

This is the most popular style in Atlanta. The boards overlap each other, giving you total privacy from both sides.

It looks good from your yard AND your neighbor's yard. That's a big deal when you're trying to keep everyone happy.

Stockade

Boards are placed right next to each other with no overlap. It's a bit cheaper than board-on-board because it uses less wood.

The downside? One side looks nice, the other side shows all the horizontal rails. Your neighbors get the "ugly" side unless you pay extra for a two-sided design.

Horizontal

The boards run horizontal instead of vertical. It's a modern look that's getting really popular.

Fair warning: some HOAs don't allow horizontal fences. Check first.

How Tall Should Your Privacy Fence Be?

This is a big decision. Here's what you need to know:

6 Feet Tall

This is the standard. It blocks the view of anyone standing in a normal yard.

Most HOAs allow 6-foot fences without any problems. Most city codes allow them too.

8 Feet Tall

Want extra privacy? Eight-foot fences are becoming more common.

But be careful - many Atlanta suburbs have rules about fence height. You might need a variance or special permission.

Also, 8-foot fences cost about 30% more than 6-foot fences.

4-5 Feet Tall

This is too short for real privacy. You can still see over it easily. Only go this short if you're required to (like in a front yard).

Atlanta Permit Requirements

Okay, this is important. Don't skip the permit. I know it's tempting, but it can cause big problems later.

When You Need a Permit

In most of Metro Atlanta, you need a permit if your fence is:

• Over 4 feet tall
• In your front or side yard

Some cities require permits for all fences. Some don't require permits for back yard fences under 7 feet.

It depends on exactly where you live. Sandy Springs has different rules than Roswell. Marietta is different from Decatur.

How to Get a Permit

The process usually goes like this:

1. Draw a simple site plan showing where the fence will go
2. Submit the plan to your city's building department
3. Pay the permit fee ($50-150)
4. Wait for approval (usually 1-2 weeks)

Most good fence companies handle all this for you. We do it all the time, so we know exactly what each city wants.

What Happens If You Skip the Permit?

You might get away with it. Or you might get a violation notice making you take the fence down.

It can also cause problems if you try to sell your house. The buyer's inspector might flag the unpermitted fence.

Just get the permit. It's not that expensive and it gives you peace of mind.

Dealing With Your HOA

If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, you need their approval before you build. No way around it.

Common HOA Requirements

Most Atlanta HOAs have rules about:

• Height: Usually 6 feet max
• Color: Many require natural wood tones or specific colors
• Style: Some only allow certain designs
• Materials: Some ban chain link or certain types of vinyl

How to Get HOA Approval

1. Get your HOA's fence rules (they're in your covenants)
2. Submit a written request with pictures of the fence style you want
3. Include a site plan showing exactly where it'll go
4. Wait for their decision (usually 30 days)

Pro tip: Talk to your neighbors first. If they write letters supporting your fence, the HOA is more likely to approve it quickly.

Installation Timeline

Here's what to expect from start to finish:

Week 1: Get quotes, choose a company, sign contract

Week 2: Company files for permit and HOA approval (if needed)

Week 3-4: Waiting for approvals

Week 5: Company calls 811 to mark utilities, orders materials

Week 6: Installation (usually takes 2-4 days for a typical backyard)

So plan on about 6 weeks from when you first call to when you're enjoying your new fence.

Some companies can move faster if permits aren't required, but 6 weeks is a safe estimate.

Cost Breakdown

Let's talk money. For a typical privacy fence in Atlanta:

150 linear feet (average backyard):

• Pine: $2,250 - $3,300
• Cedar: $3,000 - $4,500
• Vinyl: $3,000 - $6,000
• Composite: $4,500 - $6,750

This includes:

• All materials
• Labor
• One walk-through gate
• Concrete for posts
• Cleanup

Extra costs to consider:

• Removing old fence: $3-5 per foot
• Permit fees: $50-150
• Extra gates: $150-400 each
• Staining (wood only): $1-3 per foot

Maintenance Tips

Wood Privacy Fences

To keep your wood fence looking good and lasting long:

First year:

• Let it dry out for 3-6 months before staining
• Apply a quality stain or sealant
• Check for any loose boards or nails

Every 2-3 years:

• Clean the fence with a garden hose
• Restain or reseal
• Replace any damaged boards

Yearly:

• Trim plants away from the fence
• Fix any leaning posts right away
• Lubricate gate hinges

Vinyl Privacy Fences

Much easier:

• Spray with a hose once or twice a year
• Use soap for stubborn dirt
• That's it

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Calling 811 First

You MUST call 811 before digging. They'll come mark your underground utilities for free.

Hit a gas line or buried cable and you're in for a world of hurt (and expense).

2. Putting It Right on the Property Line

Your fence should be 6-12 inches INSIDE your property line. This prevents arguments with neighbors and makes maintenance easier.

3. Skimping on Post Depth

In Atlanta's clay soil, posts need to be at least 2.5 feet deep. Three feet is better.

Shallow posts will lean or fall over, especially in our soil that expands and contracts with rain.

4. Buying the Cheapest Option

A fence is a big investment. Don't go with the lowest bid unless you're sure they're using quality materials and proper installation methods.

A good fence costs more but lasts way longer.

Best Time to Install

You can install a privacy fence any time of year in Atlanta, but some times are better than others:

Spring (March-May): Great weather, but fence companies are busy. Book early.

Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but good for the fence crew. Just make sure they have water available.

Fall (September-November): Perfect weather, less busy than spring, often get better prices.

Winter (December-February): Slowest time, best prices, but installation might get delayed by bad weather.

My advice? Fall is the sweet spot.

Questions to Ask Your Fence Company

Before you hire anyone, ask these questions:

• "How deep do you dig post holes?" (Should be 2.5-3 feet)
• "What kind of wood do you use?" (Look for kiln-dried cedar or treated pine)
• "Do you handle the permit?" (They should)
• "How long does concrete need to cure?" (At least 24 hours, preferably 48)
• "What's your warranty?" (Should be at least 1 year, good companies offer 3-5 years)
• "Can I see photos of recent jobs?" (Always ask for examples)

Final Thoughts

A privacy fence is one of the best investments you can make in your home. You'll use your backyard way more when you're not worried about neighbors watching you.

Take your time choosing the right material and style. Get multiple quotes. Check references. And make sure whoever you hire follows all the rules for permits and installation.

Do it right the first time, and you'll have a fence you love for many years.