The Canal Winchester Landmarks Commission voted on May 27 to deny an application to replace a rear 4-foot wood picket fence at 24 East Mound Street with a 4-foot vinyl picket fence.

The application, CA25-020, asked for a like-for-like appearance but in vinyl; the homeowner said she preferred vinyl because it requires less maintenance and is more durable for an alley-facing fence. “The vinyl is a lot easier for me. It lasts a lot longer,” the applicant said, adding that her wood fence has been damaged by vehicles in the alley.

Commission members emphasized the commission’s responsibility to preserve the historic character of the district. A commission member said, “I don’t think we’ve ever approved a vinyl fence in the preservation or the historical area,” and others said approving vinyl would set a precedent that could change the historic downtown’s appearance. Commissioners discussed alternatives such as aluminum fences with exposed pickets, cedar left natural, or semi-transparent stains for wood to reduce maintenance.

After discussion the commission member made a motion to approve CA25-020; the motion failed on roll call with the commission recording no votes in favor and the full board voting against the application. The commission also noted the applicant had not yet purchased the material and encouraged returning with a wood alternative or samples should she choose to pursue a different material.

The commission’s decision preserves the current standard for fencing material in the Canal Winchester historic district; the applicant may return with revised plans for a wood fence or other options previously used in the district.

Looking ahead, commissioners encouraged applicants to bring material samples and to consider low-maintenance wood treatments such as semi-transparent stains that can extend the life of a wood picket fence without altering the district’s historic appearance.