Olivette planning commission approves Chevy Chase right‑of‑way fence and landscaping

The City of Olivette Planning & Community Design Commission voted unanimously on June 6 to approve a site‑plan review permitting a railing fence, boulder placement and landscaping in the Chevy Chase subdivision right‑of‑way.

Staff presented the petition, citing Chapter 4.35 and section 4.35.030 (ornamental fences) and described the work as intended to reduce vehicles crossing common ground between Highgate/Rio Vista and Enfield/Granada Way. Carlos (planning staff) told the commission that some boulders and flagstone reorientation already have been installed and that the fence itself remains to be built.

Tom Lamb, a subdivision trustee and treasurer, told the commission trustees received complaints about vehicles, “golf carts, commercial mowers,” and in one instance a police chase that crossed the common ground; trustees sought a physical barrier and said the subdivision is sharing costs with adjacent Hacienda trustees. Lamb said they expect a cedar fence’s useful life to be about seven years and that plantings will provide longer‑term screening.

Commissioners asked whether similar fences exist in the subdivision and whether adjacent property owners were notified; staff said notices were mailed to properties within 300 feet and that staff and petitioner met with adjacent neighbors. Staff also asked the commission to consider a modest height flexibility (staff listed 36 inches but requested latitude to allow up to 42 inches to account for post embedment).

Commissioner Sam Wallach moved to approve the petition as presented in the Department of Planning and Community Development memorandum dated June 6, 2024, subject to staff conditions; Commissioner Daniel Rosenberg seconded. The motion passed 5‑0. Staff said the next step is submission and review of a building permit.