City Council Reviews Unique Fence Regulations Amid Neighbor Concerns

The Boerne Zoning Board of Adjustment and Appeals convened on August 20, 2025, at 5:30 PM to discuss various zoning issues, focusing primarily on fence regulations and property boundaries.

The meeting began with a discussion about a specific property that raised concerns regarding its fencing situation. Board members examined the layout of the property, noting that it included a half lot that was not currently fenced. Questions arose about ownership and whether the property in question was fully enclosed. Clarifications were made regarding the fencing regulations applicable to the area, particularly the height and placement of fences.

A significant point of discussion was the uniformity of the city’s Unified Development Code (UDC) in relation to the unique characteristics of different neighborhoods. Board members acknowledged that while the UDC aims to standardize regulations, the diverse nature of properties in Boerne, especially in areas like the flats, may require more tailored approaches. It was noted that neighboring houses had varying fence heights, ranging from 6.5 to 10 feet, which could impact privacy and aesthetic considerations.

The board also considered the potential hardships faced by property owners due to existing ordinances that may not be effectively enforced. There was a consensus among board members that many neighbors supported the proposed changes, indicating a community desire for more flexible regulations.

As the discussion progressed, members contemplated the implications of allowing a variance for a taller fence. It was clarified that without a variance, property owners could legally install a 6-foot privacy fence on the sides and rear of their properties, while front fences were limited to a height of 3 feet.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the complexities of zoning regulations in Boerne, particularly concerning fencing. The board plans to further evaluate the feedback from the community and the unique characteristics of the neighborhoods before making any final decisions on proposed changes to the fencing ordinances.