Do you want to enjoy your garden or balcony away from prying eyes? A privacy screen is the ideal solution for creating a cozy, private space quickly and easily. However, before you begin installation, one question arises: is authorization required? The answer is not always as simple as it seems and depends on several factors, particularly local urban planning rules.
Our Districlos experts provide an overview to help you see things more clearly!
Key takeaways
- Privacy screen on an existing fence: generally no authorization required (if the height is not increased).
- Always check the PLU (Local Urban Plan) at your town hall (materials, colors, height) + co-ownership regulations if applicable.
- Without an existing support = fence: a prior declaration is often necessary.
- Talk to your neighbors to avoid conflicts!
The general principle: installation is often unrestricted
In most cases, installing a privacy screen on an existing fence or mesh does not require any authorization.
Whether it is a privacy mesh, reed screening, or heather brande, this addition is considered simple equipment rather than a construction.
Therefore, you do not need to file a prior declaration of work or a building permit, provided that you do not modify the height of the original support.
When local rules get involved
Each municipality can impose its own rules via its Local Urban Plan (PLU) or communal map. This document may define specific requirements regarding the exterior appearance of constructions and their fences to preserve the architectural harmony of a neighborhood or housing estate.
These rules may cover:
- Authorized materials (PVC, wood, composite, plants…)
- Accepted colors
- The maximum height of the entire structure (fence + privacy screen)
It is therefore imperative to find out more before purchasing and installing your equipment.
Consulting the PLU: an essential step
Before starting any project, the first step is to go to your local town hall to consult the PLU.
This document is accessible to everyone and will provide precise information on what is or is not authorized in your residential area. Ignoring this step could expose you to legal action from the town hall or a neighbor, forcing you to dismantle your installation.
What if my privacy screen is considered a fence?
The situation is different if you do not have an existing support and your privacy screen acts as a full fence in its own right (for example, rigid privacy panels mounted on posts).
In this case, it is treated as a fence and must comply with the relevant rules. The law sets a maximum height:
- 3.20 meters in cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants
- 2.60 meters in other municipalities
Again, the PLU may impose lower heights. A prior declaration of work may then be required by your town hall.
The specific case of co-ownership
If you live in an apartment building or a co-ownership residence, the rules are different again. Before installing a privacy screen on your balcony or terrace, you must consult the co-ownership regulations.
This document may prohibit or strictly regulate this type of installation to preserve the aesthetic harmony of the facade. Authorization from the general assembly of co-owners is often necessary.
Consider your relationship with neighbors
It goes without saying, but your privacy screen must not create an abnormal neighborhood disturbance. The most frequent case is the loss of sunlight for the neighboring land if your installation is too high or too opaque.
A polite discussion with your neighbor before installation often helps to defuse conflicts and find a solution that suits everyone.
Expert in fencing, gates, and outdoor landscaping since 2019.
Holds a Master’s degree in Digital Marketing – SEO, UX/UI.
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