Fence and Hedge Placement for Pool Privacy and Dog Containment

Integrating Fence and Hedge on a Narrow Property Line

With only 12 feet between pool and property line, strategic placement of a fence and arborvitae hedge ensures both dog containment and privacy.

Planting Distance Formula

Plant shrubs at 1.5 times their mature radius from structures. For arborvitae with a 6-ft mature diameter (3-ft radius), the planting distance from the fence is 4.5 feet.

Layout Recommendation

1. Install the fence on the property line.
2. Plant the arborvitae hedge 4.5 feet inside the fence (toward the pool).
3. This leaves ~7.5 feet between hedge and pool—adequate for air circulation, maintenance access, and root development.

Additional Considerations

• Choose narrow, upright arborvitae cultivars (Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green' or 'Degroot's Spire') to minimize spread.
• Ensure fence footings don't damage hedge root zones during installation.
• Provide irrigation for hedge establishment; arborvitae dislike drought.

This configuration satisfies zoning, contains the dog, screens the pool, and gives the hedge room to thrive.