Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is the minimum height a privacy fence should be to effectively screen the view of neighbors?

1. 6 feet

2. 8 feet

3. 4 feet

4. 5 feet

The correct answer is: 5 feet

To effectively screen the view of neighbors, a privacy fence typically needs to be at least 6 feet tall. A fence that is 5 feet tall may obstruct the view somewhat, but it generally falls short of the standard height that provides sufficient privacy and visual blockage. Proper privacy fencing should be high enough to create a barrier that helps prevent sight lines into your yard from neighboring properties. In many areas, the minimum recommended height for a privacy fence is 6 feet, as this height can effectively limit visibility into your space while also considering the height of people and objects in the vicinity. Fences lower than this, like 4 or 5 feet, often do not achieve the desired level of privacy and may allow for lines of sight that could be seen over the fence by neighbors or passersby. Therefore, while a 5-foot fence may provide some privacy, it is not adequate for effective screening as a 6-foot fence would be.