“Sadly, the beautiful grapevine in my backyard collapsed and has exposed my neighbor’s not so pretty home. There is an existing fence, but about a foot and a half of additional coverage is needed. Do you have any suggestions?” —M. Adkins, Portland, Oregon

Aw man, stupid grapevine. Why’d it have to go and let you down like that?

I know how important your view is to the ambience of your backyard. Unfortunately, neighboring housescan sometimes blight that view. Since I’m in your corner, on your team, and watching your back (unlike Mr. “ol’ unreliable” Grapevine there), I’m going to help you fight for what’s right.

I would tell you to build a taller fence, or add more to the top of the one you’ve got, but chances are you’re already at the maximum height allowed by law. Many cities have 6-foot height limits, and exceeding that would require a permit (check your town’s municipal building department to find out for sure). Fortunately, “temporary” installations usually do not.

Build these projects!:
Operation Vertical Garden 
Operation Lattice Panels