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Board approves modified fence placement at 2879 La Rosa Drive after safety and sightline concerns
Summary
The Grove City Board of Zoning Appeals approved a modified variance for a split-rail fence at 2879 La Rosa Drive that angles back from the front corner to increase sightlines and reduce a very small rear setback; the decision included standard permit requirements and a 21-day City Council appeal period.
The Grove City Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request for a 48-inch split-rail fence at 2879 La Rosa Drive (Parcel No. 040002583), granting a modified layout recommended by staff that angles the fence back from the house to meet a 20-foot mark at the rear rather than the original design that would have left roughly 3 feet of rear setback at one corner.
A neighbor spoke on behalf of the applicant, identified in the record as Lois May (applicant absent), and said May sought the fence to create a play area for her children and neighborhood children in the cul-de-sac. The neighbor said May had notified adjacent residents and that at least one immediate neighbor (Ms. Desmarie) submitted a written letter supporting the appeal.
Staff recommended—based on sightline and driveway-backout safety concerns—that the fence be installed on an angled line from the front corner to the 20-foot mark at the rear instead of creating two 90-degree corners that would leave a 3-foot setback in one section. Board members discussed safety for children, visibility when backing out of driveways, and aesthetics; one board member described the staff proposal as a better fit for the property’s geometry and the adjacent neighbor’s view.
By motion, the board approved the modified variance: encroachment of 9 feet at the front corner for a 21-foot setback there and an angled line to a 20-foot mark at the rear for a 10-foot setback along the lot (reflecting the cul-de-sac’s varying setback lines). The approval was unanimous (Mr. Brandt, Chair Hellinga and Mr. Hahn voting yes). The board reiterated that the applicant must obtain necessary permits and that City Council may request reversal during the 21-day appeal period; staff will notify the applicant in writing of the decision and appeal timeline.
Board members noted the decision balanced the applicant’s desire for a fenced play area with safety concerns for sightlines in the cul-de-sac and the adjacent neighbor’s front-yard view.
