You want warm, cozy lighting in your backyard. String lights make outdoor spaces feel magical and welcoming.
The problem? Your yard has no trees.
Three years ago, I faced this same issue in my treeless backyard. After testing five methods, I found simple solutions that work.
This guide shows exactly how to hang string lights without trees. You’ll learn fence mounting, pole systems, and deck methods. Each uses basic tools you likely own.
I’ll share tested instructions with no confusing terms or expensive gear needed.
Method 1: Using Existing Fence Lines
Your fence is probably the easiest place to start. Most backyards have some type of fencing that can support string lights. Wood fences work best, but vinyl and metal fences can work too.
Step-by-Step Fence Installation
I’ve hung lights on three different fence types. Start by walking your fence line and looking for the strongest posts. Measure the distances between them carefully.
Plan your layout along the fence posts first, then attach lights with zip ties at one end. Don’t stretch lights too tightly to avoid damage.
Connect multiple strands with outdoor extension cords and test all connections before finishing. Here’s the key: Don’t pull the lights tight like a guitar string.
Fence Height Solutions
Most standard fences are only 4 feet tall. That’s not high enough for overhead lighting that people can walk under comfortably.
You need at least 8 feet of height for comfortable clearance. The solution is simple but requires a bit more work.
Most fences are only 4 feet tall, so you need to add height for overhead lighting. Use the pole extension method covered in Method 4 below.
Method 2: Patio and Deck Railings
Decks and patios give you built-in attachment points. I use this method at my own house because it’s so reliable. The railings provide perfect mounting spots at the right height.
Using Deck Railings
This works great if you have a raised deck or covered patio. The key is choosing the right attachment points that are far apart.
Look for railings that give you the widest span possible. The wider the span, the better the light coverage you’ll get across your space.
Attach hooks under patio covers and string lights between railing points. Choose railings furthest apart for the best effect and use LED lights for energy savings.
Cable Wire System for Decks
This is my favorite method for large deck areas. It creates a professional look that can handle wind and weather effectively.
The cable wire supports the lights instead of stretching them directly. This prevents sagging and makes the whole setup last much longer.
Set up light poles at each end and use VELCRO Brand rolls to secure poles to railings. Wrap the fastener around poles and railings three times per pole for security.
Simple Railing Method
Sometimes you want something quick and temporary for parties or events. This method takes about 10 minutes to set up completely.
The VELCRO rolls make it super easy to adjust or move the lights later without any tools. Cut small sections of VELCRO Brand rolls and wrap around railing points.
Attach lights directly to the rolls for easy removal. This works great for seasonal decorating since you can take everything down in minutes.
Method 3: Other Support Structures
Look around your yard for existing structures. You probably have more options than you think. Your house offers the strongest attachment points available.
House and Building Attachments
Your house itself offers the strongest attachment points available. Roof lines and porch beams can handle heavy loads without any problems or structural concerns.
Second-story features work especially well because they give you the height you need automatically. Use roof eaves and porch beams, second-story deck railings, or gazebo frames.
Heavy-duty screw hooks work best for these applications. Important: Make sure you’re screwing into solid wood or structural elements, not just siding.
Existing Yard Features
Take a walk around your property to find supports you hadn’t considered before. You might find perfect attachment points already in place.
Light poles are perfect because they’re already designed to handle electrical connections safely.
Look for light poles like grill lights, pergola structures, sturdy garden posts, or any fixed support that’s tall enough. Check the stability by giving each potential support a firm shake to test its strength.
Method 4: Creating Your Own Pole Supports
When you don’t have existing supports, you can make your own. This gives you complete control over placement and height. I used this method in my side yard, where nothing else worked.
Aluminum Pole Method
I used this method on my side, where nothing else worked effectively. Aluminum tubing is lightweight but strong enough for string lights without being too heavy.
The 8-foot length gives you perfect height after installation is complete. Prime and paint the poles so they match your fence color perfectly.
Buy 8-foot-long, 1-inch aluminum square tubing and paint to match your fence. Prime first, then use high-performance paint. Allow slight flexibility since this is normal for aluminum material.
Attaching Poles to Fences
Heavy-duty zip ties work better than you might expect for this application. I was skeptical at first, but they’re incredibly strong and reliable.
Black zip ties disappear visually against most fence colors and blend in perfectly. Use enough ties to distribute the load evenly across the fence surface.
Use heavy-duty black zip ties and attach three ties at the top for security. Add one tie at the bottom for stability since ties blend in from a distance.
Alternative Pole Ideas
Not everyone wants to attach poles to their fence permanently or make lasting changes. Here are some removable options that work well, too, for temporary installations.
Planters with concrete give you stability without permanent changes to your property. Just make sure they’re heavy enough to handle wind loads.
Try wooden posts against wooden fences, metal stakes in planters with concrete, or removable bucket supports with gravel. Consider ease of removal if this is temporary.
Method 5: Using Plants and Landscaping
Plants can support lights if you choose the right ones carefully. This creates the most natural-looking installation possible. Large shrubs work surprisingly well for lightweight string lights.
Shrub and Bush Options
Large shrubs work surprisingly well for string lights when properly selected. The branches distribute the weight naturally across multiple contact points without damage.
This method often looks better than trees because you can control exactly where the lights go. Choose mature shrubs that won’t bend under the light weight significantly.
Young plants need time to grow stronger before supporting lights. Wrap lights around shrub branches to create magical glow effects. This may look better than the three options.
Creative Plant Solutions
Think beyond traditional shrubs for creative mounting options. Tall ornamental grasses and vertical gardens can support lightweight solar string lights effectively.
Potted plants give you the flexibility to move things around seasonally as needed. Large pots with sturdy plants work best for this application.
Drape lights over vertical gardens, use tall ornamental grasses, or wrap around large potted plants. Mix and match different plant supports with poles or fence attachments for the best coverage.
Installation Tips and Best Practices
Good installation makes the difference between lights that last one season and lights that last for years. These tips will save you time and frustration. Water and electricity don’t mix safely under any circumstances.
- Take extra caution around pools and water areas
- Check local building codes before starting work
- Consider hiring an electrician for water features
- Always unplug lights when not in use near water
- Use zip ties around poles and supports for security
- Don’t over-tighten – allow some slack for expansion
- Choose outdoor-rated extension cords only
- Ensure all connections are weatherproof
- Plan for easy seasonal removal if needed
Conclusion
Now you know how to hang string lights in a backyard without trees using five proven methods. From simple fence mounting to DIY pole systems, each approach works for different yard setups.
I’ve used all these methods over the past three years. The fence and railing options are easiest for beginners. Pole systems give you the most flexibility.
Start with what you have. Check your fence, deck, or house attachments first. Most people find a solution without buying extra materials.
Your treeless backyard can look just as cozy as any tree-filled space. Pick one method and try it this weekend. You’ll be enjoying evening gatherings under twinkling lights in no time.
Which method will you try first? Let me know in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to hang string lights in the backyard without trees?
Use existing fences, deck railings, or house attachments like roof eaves. You can also create DIY pole supports with aluminum tubing or use sturdy shrubs and bushes. Most methods require basic tools like zip ties, hooks, and outdoor extension cords.
What height do I need for overhead string lights?
You need at least 8-10 feet of height for comfortable clearance underneath. Most standard fences are only 4 feet tall, so you’ll need to add height with pole extensions or use taller structures like house eaves or second-story railings.
Can I use regular extension cords for outdoor string lights?
No, always use outdoor-rated extension cords designed for weather exposure. Regular indoor cords can fail in wet conditions and create safety hazards. Look for cords marked “outdoor use” or “weatherproof” to ensure safe operation year-round.
How do I secure string lights without damaging my fence?
Use heavy-duty zip ties or VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP rolls for temporary installations. For permanent setups, screw-in cup hooks work well. Avoid stretching lights too tightly, and always leave some slack to prevent damage during temperature changes.
Are solar string lights bright enough for entertaining?
Solar lights work great for ambient lighting, but aren’t bright enough for task lighting like dining or games. For functional overhead lighting, plug-in LED string lights provide much better illumination. Solar lights are perfect for decorative mood lighting around plants.
