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The optimal planting season for hedges depends on your climate zone, but early spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Spring planting allows roots to establish before summer heat arrives, while fall planting gives plants time to develop root systems before winter dormancy. 

In milder climates, winter planting can work well, but avoid periods of extreme temperature or drought regardless of season to give your new hedge the best chance of successful establishment.

Proper spacing depends on the hedge variety and your desired outcome. Most hedge plants perform best when spaced between one and three feet apart. Fast-growing species need more room between plants to accommodate their eventual spread and allow for proper air circulation. 

For immediate privacy, you might place plants closer together, but this approach can create competition for nutrients and may affect long-term health. Always check the specific spacing recommendations for your chosen hedge variety.

The time required for a hedge to form an effective privacy screen varies by plant type and initial size. Most hedges take between two and five years to develop full density when started with smaller plants. Fast-growing varieties like privet may establish more quickly, while slower-growing species like boxwood require additional patience. 

Starting with larger plants reduces waiting time but increases initial costs. Regular watering, appropriate fertilization, and proper pruning techniques can help accelerate growth and density development.

For rapid privacy screening, consider fast-growing hedge options like privet, which can grow up to three feet annually in ideal conditions. Arborvitae varieties add approximately two feet of height per year and provide excellent year-round screening. Other quick-growing options include certain varieties of cypress and juniper. 

While these fast-growing species provide quicker results, they require more frequent maintenance and may have shorter overall lifespans than slower-growing alternatives.

Most residential hedge planting projects don't require permits, but regulations vary by location. Some municipalities enforce height restrictions for hedges, particularly those along property lines or near roadways. If your planned hedge will exceed these height limitations, permits may be necessary. 

Additionally, homeowners' association rules might govern hedge placement, species selection, and maintenance standards. Checking local regulations and HOA requirements before planting helps avoid potential complications and expenses.