Planning commission sends revised fencing standard to City Council after public hearing

The Independence Planning Commission voted Dec. 2 to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council for LA 2025-01, a proposed amendment to the city development code that clarifies when chain-link fencing may be allowed.

Staff said the amendment responds to a recent request for flexibility in chain-link fence standards, particularly on cul-de-sacs. The proposal would allow chain-link fencing on the same portion of a lot when at least 50% of properties on that block or cul-de-sac already have chain-link fencing. The change is intended to preserve neighborhood character where chain link is already common while maintaining existing prohibitions in sensitive areas.

Staff noted that the Oregon State planning goals and the city comprehensive plan do not directly prescribe fence materials; the amendment aims to maintain community character while providing limited flexibility. Staff recommended approval and said the amendment had received required public notice; no visitors testified in opposition during the hearing.

Commissioners asked whether the change would cover side yards and front yards; staff clarified it would allow side-yard chain-link where the 50% condition is met but would not permit chain-link in the historic preservation district, which the existing code already prohibits. The code does not, in this amendment, specify screening requirements such as slats or vinyl inserts; material standards elsewhere in the code address wire and material specifics. The amendment references a 3.5-foot front-yard height limit for some fences.

A motion to forward a recommendation of approval to the Independence City Council passed on voice vote.

Staff will forward the draft to the city attorney for formal review before the council hearing.