St. Lucie County schedules second reading to allow limited use of cattle/chicken wire on large rural residential lots
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Summary
The board scheduled a Feb. 17 second reading on a county‑initiated text amendment that would permit cattle wire, chicken wire or similar fence materials in specified residential zoning districts when strict criteria are met (lots over 1 acre, permitted dwelling, unpaved private road). Staff said the change targets rural character and includes a survey requirement for permits.
The St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners voted to schedule the second reading and adoption of a county‑initiated text amendment that would allow certain nontraditional fence materials in limited rural residential situations.
Planning Director Ben Balser told the board the change responds to code compliance and permitting issues that emerged after the board’s 2023 residential fence regulation updates, which broadly prohibited cattle and chicken wire in most residential districts. The draft amendment would permit cattle wire, chicken wire or similar materials only when all of the following criteria are met: the lot is larger than 1 acre; it contains a permitted dwelling unit; and it is located on an unpaved, privately maintained road. The amendment would not apply to smaller lots, lots on paved roads, or unoccupied residential parcels.
The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval; staff added a requirement — consistent with that recommendation — that permit applications include a survey depicting the proposed fence location to reduce the risk of blocking private access easements.
The board voted 'Aye' with no opposition to schedule the ordinance’s second reading and adoption for Feb. 17, 2026 at 6 p.m.
Quote: "This amendment only adds flexibility in material and only under very specific circumstances," Ben Balser said.
Next steps: The ordinance will return to the board on Feb. 17, 2026 for second reading and final adoption unless the board modifies the draft language beforehand.
