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Board approves variance allowing 6-foot privacy fence atop retaining wall at 1102 Mason Avenue
Summary
An Austin city panel approved a variance permitting a 6-foot privacy fence to be placed on top of an existing retaining wall at 1102 Mason Avenue after hearing from the homeowner and discussing wall stability and neighbor consent.
An unnamed city board approved a variance on a fence at 1102 Mason Avenue, allowing a 6-foot privacy fence to be installed on top of an existing retaining wall, the board decided during a meeting that included public testimony from the homeowner.
Drew Solski, the homeowner at 1102 Mason Avenue, told the panel: "My name is Drew Solski. I'm a homeowner in 1102 Mason Avenue. Asking for permission for variance on a fence, that fence will be 6 feet tall," and described structural work he said he had completed to stabilize the wall, including adding gravel backfill and a French drain.
Board members said the property is in Flood Zone X and discussed whether the combined height of the fence plus the retaining wall exceeded the local fence code's 6-foot limit. The board heard concerns about sections of an older cinder-block retaining wall that Solski said were originally backfilled with sand and were being rebuilt with proper mortar, drainage holes, and 2-inch gravel backfill. Board member Maggie Sherastani read findings that the preexisting retaining wall created a unique hardship and that approving the variance would not alter the character of the area because the end height would be comparable to a fence built at grade.
During questioning, members pressed Solski on the condition of the existing walls and whether he had written neighbor consent for a taller barrier. Solski said his adjacent neighbor had verbally agreed but that a signed letter was not yet on file; he said he could obtain written consent. Several members noted that, under the fence code as discussed at the hearing, written neighbor approval can be required when fences and walls combine to exceed permitted heights.
After discussion and a roll-call vote, the board approved the variance. The transcript shows each voting member present said yes during the roll call. The panel then closed the public hearing. Acting chair Melissa Hawthorne announced the outcome: "Your variance has been approved. Go in peace."
The meeting continued with two remaining agenda items: presentation of an activity report and a planned discussion of the board's annual internal review, the latter of which was tabled until the next meeting.
