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Riverside planning commission denies artificial-hedge slat waiver for Carlton/Beatatric parcel after residents question durability
Summary
A design-waiver request to use artificial grass/hedge slats woven into chain link fencing for a large unaddressed parcel on Carlton at Beatatric Drive was denied after residents and commissioners raised concerns about longevity and aesthetics; staff noted the alternative vinyl slats are a by-right option.
The Riverside Planning Commission on March 18 denied a design-waiver request to allow artificial grass/hedge slats on a chain-link fence for an unaddressed parcel near Carlton and Beatatric Drive, after residents criticized the material’s durability and several commissioners expressed concern about setting a precedent.
Staff planner Cody Smith briefed the commission on PC case 26-00004 and said the owner sought a waiver for roughly 155 feet of alternative fencing material along the parcel. Smith told commissioners the applicant had previously received approval for an eight-foot chain-link perimeter fence and that staff recommended approval of the grass hedge slat material with the condition that relevant permits be obtained; staff noted corrugated metal fencing is explicitly prohibited by the UDO (section cited in staff materials).
Owner Isakarov said the privacy material was chosen in response to prior nuisance complaints and to provide screening behind adjacent homes. Several residents attending the meeting opposed the waiver and questioned the appearance and longevity of the plastic greenery: Sheri Summers said she has seen the product in hot climates and believes "it doesn't last long," and Charles Nash said he objects to the fence visually from his backyard.
Commissioners asked whether faded or tattered slats would be enforceable; the law director and staff said such issues would be handled under the exterior property-maintenance code in the same manner as peeling paint or other fence disrepair. Commissioners also noted that vinyl privacy slats for chain link are an already permitted (by-right) solution and suggested that material as an alternative.
After deliberation about aesthetics, maintenance and precedent, the commission voted to deny the waiver request. The motion to deny (made by Mr. Haristston and seconded by Mr. Dao/Daell) carried on a roll-call vote in which Commissioners Denning, Haristston, Owens, Dao/Daell and Vasquez voted yes.
Staff and the law director emphasized that the property-maintenance code would apply if an approved material fell into disrepair and that an applicant who wishes to use a by-right alternative such as vinyl slats could coordinate with staff for that installation and permitting.
