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Board of Adjustments grants fence and driveway variances for two Prairie Grove properties
Summary
The board granted a variance allowing a six‑foot privacy fence to extend across 50% of the front yard at 127 Angus Drive after the homeowner reported repeated hostile behavior by a neighbor; it also approved a waiver of the driveway paving requirement for a pre‑existing gravel driveway at 127 S. Border, subject to City Council approval of the waiver.
The Prairie Grove Board of Adjustments on Nov. 7 approved two variances: a fence variance for a homeowner at 127 Angus Drive and a driveway/paving waiver for a residence at 127 South Border.
Don Steerman, who requested the fence variance, told the board he had endured hostile conduct from a neighbor and had filed police reports. He said he wanted a six‑foot privacy fence to extend farther into the front yard—roughly 50% of the front yard area—to protect his family and property. The board discussed whether neighbor behavior constitutes the type of hardship that justifies a variance and noted the city’s concern about precedent if many front yards became walled off. The board approved a variance conditioned on a six‑foot maximum height and a permit; staff reminded the applicant to obtain the required fence permit.
Later the board considered a driveway waiver for Michael Green, who sought to keep an existing 168‑foot gravel entrance rather than install a hard‑surfaced driveway required by current code. Green said the driveway predated the house and that paving could alter drainage; staff confirmed the driveway appears to qualify as a pre‑existing condition for a waiver but explained that the city council must also approve the waiver before it is final. The Planning Commission approved the waiver and indicated it would forward the item to the city council for final action.
Both variances were approved by voice vote. The fence applicant was told to obtain a fence permit and to ensure the structure meets setback and safety requirements; the driveway waiver approval will be transmitted to the city council for final consideration.
