Commerce Park fence plan cleared pending landscape screening, gate access and utility protections

City staff reviewed a second-submittal construction site plan to install an aluminum security fence at an existing industrial/warehouse park and found the plan largely responsive with a few clarifications requested.

Community development staff noted the land development code requires supplemental landscaping for fences that exceed 4 feet and are within 15 feet of a street. The applicant's revised plan shows the existing fence approximately 22 feet from the right-of-way and the proposed connection at about 31 feet, which staff said should resolve the 15-foot setback concern.

Engineering and fire staff focused on emergency access and utilities. Public services asked that the mechanical gate allow three types of fire-department access — an approved Knox key lock, a keypad and a click-to-enter device — and asked the applicant to coordinate final device specifications with the City of Apopka. The applicant indicated the primary gate opening is 30 feet and that existing fire hydrants are shown inside and outside the fence so hydrants will not be blocked.

Engineering also recommended notes to protect existing stormwater and water mains during construction. The applicant added plan notes directing the contractor to verify the location and preserve the integrity of stormwater pipe and water mains and to relocate or replace irrigation and landscaping if impacted.

Staff directed the applicant to resubmit a revised plan addressing the remaining comments. If a resubmittal shows no outstanding comments, staff said there will be no need to return to DRC and the plans can be stamped approved; staff estimated an approximate one-month review window for the resubmittal.