10 Inexpensive Backyard Privacy Ideas for a Cozy Outdoor Retreat

Life can get busy. Sometimes all we want is a quiet, secure outdoor space to relax and unwind. That security and relaxation can drop, however, when your neighborhood is heavily populated and everyone can see into your backyard space, even if you're on good terms with your neighbors.

When you want a backyard space free of prying eyes, the following inexpensive backyard privacy ideas can inspire your next DIY project.

Before You Get Started

Before you get started, you'll have to consider the following:

• Maintenance and upkeep costs: Some low-cost privacy screens and outdoor decor ideas may look great at first, but require lots of maintenance and expensive upkeep costs. You may be able to save money and have less routine maintenance in the long term by opting for a project that has a slightly higher upfront cost.
• Restrictions: HOAs and local ordinances may require permits or even outright prohibit certain types of fencing and other hardscape features. Always read the fine print and confirm that what you're planning meets all local regulations.
• Coverage: Some solutions, like wood fences, block neighbors' views of your yard year-round. Other options, like ornamental grasses, may only offer coverage on a seasonal basis. Consider the extent of coverage you want before making your final decision.
• Foot traffic: Will your privacy solution be in a high traffic area? If so, ask yourself if you need to install a gate or other solution to access the entirety of your property.

Easy DIY Backyard Privacy Solutions

The following budget-friendly, creative ideas can help create a more private outdoor living space for renters and homeowners alike.

1. Privacy Screen

A great low-cost privacy option for renters or homeowners with an existing fence is a privacy screen. Outdoor privacy screens are oftentimes opaque fabrics that can fit on chain-link fences, blocking neighbors' views of your backyard. Materials are easy enough to find both online or in big box stores, making this solution affordable and accessible for most yards.

2. Living Wall

Liven up the backyard and create a private space to hide away from the hustle and bustle of daily life with a living wall. Simply set up pre-purchased trellises and plant vines or other climbing plants like clematis. You can also transform your wall into a vertical garden, opting for plants like beans and grapes rather than strictly ornamental plants to make your privacy solution even more functional.

3. Privacy Hedge

A privacy hedge can completely transform your yard, adding privacy and a suggestion of elegance. Shrubs like boxwood are particularly well-suited for these purposes and can even flow seamlessly into other garden designs.

4. Wood Fence

Is there anything more classic than a wooden privacy fence? This option can match the vibe of most outdoor spaces, or provide a complete makeover of an unassuming yard.

5. Ornamental Grasses

Greenery is always a great option for adding beauty and privacy from prying eyes, all with no major construction required either. Tall ornamental grasses well-suited for privacy include pampas grass, zebra grass, and feather reed grass.

6. Outdoor Curtains

If your backyard already has a gazebo, pergola, or other hardscape structure, adorn them with outdoor curtains. They can add a little extra patio privacy and also enhance the look of your property if you choose fun designs or pair them with ambient lighting.

7. Outdoor Furniture

Strategically choose and place outdoor furniture to your backyard patio for a little extra personal space and more sitting room. High-backed couches, tall chairs, and other pieces of furniture can provide subtle elements of privacy and segment your yard into different sections.

8. Row of Trees

Add a row of trees to the edge of your yard. This green space will enhance your property and personal space alike. Arborvitae (thujas) are popular options for this purpose.

9. Lattice Panels

A privacy wall made of slat or lattice panels can work well alone or in combination with vines and other climbing plants. If you don't want to build the panels themselves, don't worry; you can easily purchase them from big box stores or online retailers like Amazon.

10. Potted Plants

Planting trees can take some work, but you don't need to work hard or have any landscaping knowledge to set out potted plants. Large perennials like coneflower, hollyhock, and foxglove are great display plants that also add cover to your backyard retreat. It's an inexpensive backyard privacy idea that avoids looking "cheap."