A. Purpose: The purpose of this Section 7.4.910 is to provide aesthetic and location standards for fences and walls to improve the beauty of the City and ensure that fences and walls are not located where they could be safety hazards.
B. Location and Maximum Height: Except in the HS-O district or otherwise stated in this Section 7.4.910, fences or walls less than seven (7) feet in height may be placed anywhere on a property, provided the fence complies with the following additional standards:
1. Fences shall not block access to electric or gas meters, fire hydrants, Fire Department connections, and other fire protection appurtenances.
2. Fences located between the front façade of a primary structure and any lot frontage adjacent to a public or private street may not exceed four (4) feet in height.
3. Opaque fences on corner lots shall not extend beyond the established front yard setback.
4. Fences over thirty (30) inches in height are prohibited in any Sight Distance Line.
5. Fences and walls may only be located within preservation areas in accordance with the terms of an approved Development Plan.
6. Fences taller than the maximum heights permitted in this Subsection 7.4.910B are considered to be accessory structures and shall meet the setback and height requirements for accessory structures in Part 7.4.2 (Dimensional Standards).
7. Fences may be located adjacent to or on top of retaining walls provided that the height of the fence material, excluding the retaining wall, does not exceed the maximum permitted height of a permitted fence in that location.
C. Measurement of Fence Height: Fence height shall be measured in accord with Subsection 7.6.204B (Fence Height).
D. Fence and Wall Materials:
1. Fences and walls may include masonry walls, solid wood fencing, chain-link fencing with permahedge inserts, or chain-link fencing with opaque slats. The specific type of screening materials shall be determined in conjunction with the review of a Development Plan where one is required. Examples of acceptable fencing types are shown below.
2. Exterior use of tarps, plastic sheeting, polypropylene, or other similar materials as flexible or inflexible screening or fencing is prohibited when visible from beyond the property boundaries, except for City-installed or maintained snow fence or as part of active construction or remodeling project or as illustrated as part of a City-approved construction or grading and erosion control plan.
3. The use of barbed wire, razor wire, or electric shock fencing shall be prohibited except as shown below:
a. Commercial or Industrial Uses: Barbed wire or razor wire is permitted at a height six (6) feet or higher above existing grade.
b. Agricultural Uses:
(1) Electric shock fencing consisting of direct current shall be permitted in association with an agricultural use involving the control or containment of animals only.
(2) Barbed wire shall be allowed except in connection with a residential use of the property.
c. Residential Uses:
(1) Barbed wire and electric shock fencing may not be located along public rights-of-way, public sidewalks, or public open spaces. Where barbed wire or electric shock fencing are permitted, they may not extend into the required front yard setback.
(2) Razor wire is prohibited. (Ord. 23-03)