Sylvan Park board hears fence variance case sparking safety concerns from neighbors

During the June 5, 2025, meeting of the Nashville Board of Zoning Appeals, a significant discussion centered around a fence located at the intersection of 46th and Nevada Avenues in Sylvan Park. The property owner, Karen Robbins, sought a variance for a six-foot opaque fence that exceeds the city's height regulations for fences within ten feet of the right-of-way, which is capped at 30 inches.

Robbins argued that the fence, which was already in place when she purchased the property in 2019, provides essential security and privacy from heavy traffic on 46th Avenue, an arterial road. She highlighted safety concerns stemming from nearby homeless encampments and increased pedestrian traffic, particularly as new developments, including restaurants and a hotel, have emerged in the area. Robbins emphasized that the fence helps mitigate security issues she has faced, including unwanted visitors and a past dog attack.

However, the meeting also featured opposition from local resident Mary Stodgrass, who raised concerns about the fence obstructing visibility for drivers turning onto 46th Avenue. Stodgrass argued that the fence creates a safety hazard, particularly with the recent addition of bike lanes, which further complicate turning maneuvers. She presented evidence of traffic accidents in the vicinity, linking them to the presence of tall fences that block sightlines.

The board allowed both sides to present their cases, with Robbins receiving ten minutes to advocate for her variance and Stodgrass providing counterarguments regarding public safety. The discussions highlighted the ongoing tension between individual property rights and community safety concerns, a common theme in zoning appeals.

As the board deliberates on this case, the outcome could set a precedent for future fence regulations in Nashville, particularly in neighborhoods experiencing rapid development and changing dynamics. The decision will not only impact Robbins' property but also the broader community's approach to zoning and safety in residential areas.