DeKalb Planning Commission approves variance for 6-foot privacy fence on Lincoln Highway

The Planning and Zoning Commission of DeKalb, Illinois, convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss several key matters, including a significant variance request for a privacy fence. The meeting began with a presentation from city officials, followed by a public hearing where no audience members chose to speak on the matter.

The main topic of discussion centered on a petition to allow a six-foot-high privacy fence to be constructed in the front yard of a property located at 1838 East Lincoln Highway. The council noted that the property had been annexed to the city in 2011 and rezoned for commercial use the following year. Council members expressed that the proposed fence would not obstruct visibility, as it would be see-through at the four-foot mark. Positive feedback from neighbors was also mentioned, indicating community support for the project.

After deliberation, a motion was made by Council Member O'Flaherty to approve the variance, which was seconded by Council Member Wright. The motion passed unanimously, allowing the construction of the fence as outlined in the staff report dated July 3, 2025.

In addition to the fence variance, the council briefly discussed upcoming meetings, including a scheduled session on July 21 to address two additional fence variances for corner lots. The meeting concluded with the announcement of a new commission member expected to be appointed at the July 28 council meeting.

The swift approval of the fence variance reflects the council's commitment to addressing community needs while adhering to zoning regulations. The next steps will involve the implementation of the approved variance and continued discussions on future zoning matters.