Lutherville Commission reviews historic fence request on Seminary Avenue

In a recent meeting of the Baltimore County Landmarks Preservation Commission, the discussion centered around a proposed front yard fence at 209 West Seminary Avenue, a property located within a historic district. The property owners, seeking to enhance safety for their young children and pets against the busy traffic on Seminary Avenue, initiated a historic review process to install a 42-inch wooden Gothic-style picket fence.

The proposal raised eyebrows among commission members, as the existing streetscape along Seminary Avenue is characterized by hedges rather than fences. Preservation staff noted that while front yard fencing is not common in Lutherville, it does exist in some areas, and they deemed the proposed fence appropriate given its placement behind existing hedges, which would minimize visibility during the spring and summer months.

However, the commission received three letters opposing the project, reflecting concerns from neighbors about altering the historic character of the area. During the meeting, commissioners debated the implications of allowing the fence. Some argued that the fence would provide necessary safety, especially for families living on busy roads, while others cautioned against setting a precedent that could lead to a transformation of front yards into spaces more akin to backyards.

One commissioner highlighted the difference between hedges, which serve as decorative landscaping, and fences, which provide security. The discussion revealed a split among members, with some leaning towards supporting the staff's recommendation while others expressed a desire to maintain the historic integrity of the neighborhood.

As the meeting concluded without the applicant present to address the concerns directly, the commission faced the challenge of balancing the needs of modern homeowners with the preservation of the historic character that defines Lutherville. The outcome of this discussion will likely shape future decisions regarding similar requests in the historic district, as the commission navigates the delicate intersection of safety, aesthetics, and preservation.