Council approves 8-foot solid fence variance at 1012 E. Eighth St., despite one no vote over sight-line concerns

The Dell Rapids City Council granted a variance to allow an 8-foot-tall, fully solid fence along the east property line of 1012 East Eighth Street, a residential parcel that abuts industrial property owned by Dell's Materials.

Sheldon Jensen, community development director, said the property sits at a dead-end and directly abuts an I-2 industrial parcel. The homeowner requested an 8-foot solid fence along the east side and a 6-foot solid fence along part of the front yard to prevent concrete aggregate and other material from blowing onto the residential property. Jensen said neighbors had signed in favor and staff recommended approval because a similar solid fence would be allowed inside the adjacent industrial district.

One council member raised sight-line and front-yard safety concerns and said the front corner should remain more open for visibility of vehicles, pedestrians and children. The council discussed that the lot is at a dead-end and not a through street; proponents noted the fence responds to materials and dust coming from the industrial neighbor.

Alderman Barry Berg moved to approve the variance as requested; Alderman Chuck Jones seconded. The council held a roll call; the motion passed 7–1 (yes: Berg, Meyer, Haack, Jones, Hanslick, Cavigelli, Ron Sagen; no: Nelson). The variance applies to fence height and solidity in the front and side yards; any required permits and compliance with other regulations remain the homeowner's responsibility.