Whether it's from traffic or noisy neighbors, backyard noise can significantly reduce the quality of outdoor living. The summer sounds of wind rustling the leaves, singing birds and chirping insects can be drowned out by loud neighbors and steady traffic. To create the relaxing peaceful backyard experience, some action might be needed to block out noise that might disturb an otherwise peaceful afternoon. Although moving to a home with additional acreage to create a buffer between the backyard and the property boundaries would be a great solution, it might not be possible or practical. Depending on budget and possible landscape design limitations there are ways to lessen the noise that invades your yard.

One way to block annoying but fairly mild noise is to hang outdoor drapes around a deck, patio or other outdoor structure. Drapes may not block out much noise, but heavy weatherproof drapes can give the illusion of a being a noise barrier. In addition, the drapes can provide decorative shade and privacy which create a peaceful secluded space within the yard.

Another way to reduce backyard noise is to mask it with your own noise using a water feature such as a fountain. Max Alexander writing for thisoldhouse.com says, "Running water has long been employed to "drown out" extraneous noise and create a sense of serenity—picture the fountains in medieval cloisters or Japanese gardens." Similar to the décor value of outdoor drapes, a water feature also adds beauty to the landscape.

Planting a tall thick hedge can dampen sound while emphasizing property borders between your backyard sanctuary and the neighbors, traffic or passersby who may disturb your peace. Emma Caplan writing for bobvila.com suggests, "Ideal choices for reducing sound are dense, broad-leaf evergreen hedges that stay thick and green throughout the year, or junipers with dense branches. These kinds of　plants block sound　more effectively than plants with narrower leaves." One drawback to consider about growing a hedge to block noise is that it could take years to grow large enough to make a noticeable difference.

However, if the beauty of a hedge is the desired solution, consider installing a temporary panel fence to serve the purpose until the hedge grows to full size. Depending on local zoning laws regarding placement and height, both a fence and a hedge can be placed along the property border to block some of the noise. When the hedge is at the desired height the fence can be removed. While a hedge creates a natural barrier, it's less effective than a solid structure might block more sound from entering the yard.

Ultimately, the most effective way to block out backyard noise is to build a tall solid wall between the yard and the offending source of noise. Max Alexander for thisoldhouse.com says, "The sheer mass of masonry walls—stone, brick, stucco-covered concrete—make them the best for blocking sound." Like fencing, local zoning laws will provide guidance on whether a wall is allowed and, if so, will list the existing rules that may limit the size and placement of the structure. The thicker and higher the wall, the more noise will be blocked.

In a yard where noise is a constant problem that severely reduces quality of outdoor life, using all of these sound barrier ideas may be the most attractive solution. With some creativity and a large enough budget all of these ideas can be realized, and the yard will not only be less noisy, but also more aesthetically pleasing and more private.