Council clarifies fence-exemption rules for new multifamily developments, approves text amendment

TULA — The Tula City Council on June 3 adopted Ordinance 2026-12, amending city design standards for walls and fences to allow a limited exemption when a new multifamily residential project is constructed adjacent to an existing fence.

City Planner Anna England told the council the change corrects a prior misinterpretation and is limited in scope: the amendment removes the column requirement only, rather than exempting full fence construction. The applicant who spoke at the public hearing emphasized the approval is not automatic, saying "the community development director may approve it" and that staff will evaluate situations on a case-by-case basis.

After the public hearing the council moved to adopt the ordinance (motion referenced Exhibit E, striking items 6 and 7) and approved it by a recorded 4–0 vote. Council members who voted in the affirmative were Councilman Goss, Councilman McCall, Councilwoman Gochas and Councilman Hansen.

Why it matters

The amendment affects how developers and staff apply fencing standards when new multifamily projects abut existing private fences. By limiting the exemption to fence columns and making approval discretionary, the change aims to balance aesthetics in continuous fence runs while preserving city review authority.

Implementation

Community Development staff will apply the new language administratively when reviewing plans and may deny requests that do not meet the clarified intent. The council referenced Exhibit E during the motion; staff noted the change was discussed earlier in the day's work session and revised to reflect the applicant’s intent.

Next steps

Staff will implement the amended code in building and planning reviews. No appeals or additional hearings were recorded at the meeting.