Portable & Retractable Privacy Fences

Portable and retractable privacy fences are designed for maximum flexibility — they set up in minutes, move wherever you need them, and store compactly when not in use. They're the best option for renters, frequent movers, and anyone who wants privacy on demand without permanent modifications.

Portable freestanding privacy fences use weighted bases or wide feet to stand upright without any anchoring. The most common designs are folding screen dividers (hinged panels that stand in a zigzag pattern — 3 to 5 panels per unit, 5–7 feet tall), planter box fences (privacy panels attached to planter boxes that provide both weight and greenery), wheeled privacy walls (large panels on locking casters that roll into position), and popup privacy tents and screens (collapsible frames with fabric panels that set up like a popup canopy).

Retractable privacy screens work like oversized window blinds. A housing unit mounts to a wall, post, or frame, and a fabric screen pulls out horizontally to the desired width, then locks in place. When not needed, the screen retracts into its housing. Retractable screens are available in widths up to 20 feet and heights of 6–8 feet. Prices range from $200–$800 for manual retractable systems and $500–$2,000 for motorized versions.

For rental properties, the key requirement is zero permanent modification. The best rental-friendly options are freestanding folding screens ($80–$300), weighted planter fences ($100–$400), and tension-pole privacy curtains ($50–$150 — spring-loaded poles that wedge between floor and ceiling or between walls, with privacy curtains hung between them).

For pools and hot tubs, look for portable privacy solutions rated for outdoor moisture exposure. Freestanding aluminum-frame screens with weather-resistant fabric ($150–$400) or modular artificial hedge panels on freestanding frames ($200–$600) handle pool-area humidity and splashing without degrading.