Commission approves framework to create zoning rules for high containment fences at outdoor sports facilities

The Hammond Planning Commission on May 19 unanimously accepted proposed standards for fencing and containment at outdoor sports facilities and directed staff to prepare a zoning‑ordinance amendment to add the provisions (proposed new section 22.19).

The item (CP25‑04) arose from a developer proposal for outdoor sports facilities at the former YMCA site that would include containment fences—intended to keep balls in play—ranging from roughly 12 feet up to as much as 20 feet behind goals or backstops. City staff told commissioners existing fence height language in the zoning code (typically 4, 6 or 8 feet) does not adequately address those higher structures and recommended creating a specific rule.

Staff described authoritative sources consulted for the draft language, including industry and sport organizations — examples cited in the staff report include Urban Soccer Park guidance, FIFA standards, the Indiana High School Athletic Association, and general standards such as ANSI and ASTM specifications — and said the list in the staff report was illustrative rather than exhaustive.

Staff also reported two technical corrections to the draft report: the Roman‑numeral reference in the report title (to read Title XXII) and a proposed reduction in the minimum setback from the right of way from 10 feet to 5 feet for the containment fences. Staff emphasized the proposed language would preserve corner vision‑clearance rules so the placement of fences does not obstruct sight lines at intersections.

Commissioner Dean Button and staff said demolition, construction and final fence designs would still require the usual permitting and site‑plan review. "We want to make sure that the placement of these outdoor sports facilities and their containment would not cause visual obstruction to anybody at an intersection," a city staff representative said.

Following the staff presentation, Commissioner Dabberton moved that the commission determine the proposed provisions are accepted and direct staff to draft an amendment (proposed new section 22.19); Commissioner Marcus Taylor seconded. The motion passed by roll call, 9 ayes, 0 nays. The commission also voted 9‑0 to adopt the staff report as preliminary findings as amended.

No members of the public spoke on the fencing petition during the public hearing. Staff said the draft ordinance language is to be refined and returned to the commission for formal amendment and adoption through the normal ordinance process.