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Sunnyvale zoning administrator approves front-yard fence use permit at 1128 Spinosa Drive
Summary
Zoning Administrator George Schroeder approved a use permit to allow a 7-foot-8.5-inch wooden fence in the front yard at 1128 Spinosa Drive, finding it consistent with neighborhood fences and Eichler-style houses; the decision can be appealed to the Planning Commission within 15 calendar days.
Zoning Administrator George Schroeder approved a use permit March 12 to allow a 7-foot, 8.5-inch tall wooden fence in the front yard of a single-family home at 1128 Spinosa Drive (file PONG20240685).
The decision matters because the permit would allow a front-yard fence taller than typical front-yard height limits; Schroeder said he could make the required findings, noting the fence aligns with a neighbor's fence, sits roughly 15 feet back from the street and is consistent with taller fences seen in Eichler neighborhoods.
Wendy Lau, the project planner, offered no presentation. Mr. Bagdasarian, speaking for the applicant, said the stated 7-foot-plus measurement is a “misnomer” because the lot sits on a slope and the perceived height at street level is closer to a standard fence. “The 7 foot, height is kind of a a misnomer,” Mr. Bagdasarian said. He added the proposal would tie the new fence to the neighbor’s existing fence so the frontage reads as continuous. Lynn Boss, the property owner, said the home’s recent renovations and added heat pumps reduced side-yard space and that the front fence would allow room for plant beds and small-scale gardening the household shares with neighbors.
Schroeder said he could make the required findings for the proposal and approved “alternative 1,” describing the action as approving the use permit with the recommended findings and Attachment 2 and the recommended conditions in Attachment 3. He reminded those present that his approval may be appealed to the Planning Commission within 15 calendar days.
There were no members of the public who provided comment during the public hearing. The project planner and zoning administrator recorded no additional conditions beyond the written attachments referenced in the staff materials. The hearing then concluded.
