College Park council introduces ordinance to raise front-yard fence limit from 3 to 4 feet

The council introduced an ordinance to raise the maximum allowable height for front-yard fences in College Park from 3 feet to 4 feet, citing safety and consistency with Prince George—s County rules.

Director of Planning/Development (presentation) displayed a simple visual demonstration and told the council the common standard nationwide and in neighboring jurisdictions is 4 feet. The presenter said the city receives many variance requests — often because property owners first get county approval for a 4-foot fence and later learn that the city code lists 3 feet, creating a permitting conflict.

Councilmember Hurding moved to introduce the ordinance amendment to code section 87-23 (front-yard fences); the motion was seconded and the ordinance was introduced for a public hearing to be scheduled. Staff said the advisory planning commission voted unanimously in favor of the change.

Why it matters: Raising the limit from 3 feet to 4 feet would align city rules with common practice in neighboring jurisdictions, reduce administrative variance requests and address residents— requests to enclose yards for pets and small children while preserving sight-line provisions at intersections.

What happens next: Staff will schedule a public hearing (anticipated two weeks after introduction) and return the ordinance for council action after public comment.