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Hanover planners discuss revisions to draft fence ordinance, ask staff for updated language
Summary
City Planner Cindy Nash presented draft fence ordinance language Dec. 22; commissioners recommended edits clarifying owner responsibility for fence moves, distinguishing gate types, changing 'restrictions' to 'requirements,' and aligning acreage language. Nash will provide an updated draft at the next meeting.
City Planner Cindy Nash presented a draft fence ordinance for discussion at the City of Hanover Planning Commission meeting on Dec. 22, 2025.
Commissioners discussed multiple recommended edits to improve clarity and consistency. Among the suggested changes were referencing the City of St. Michael policy language to underscore that the city does not arbitrate neighbor disputes; replacing the word 'permits' with 'fences' in Section A.1.b; adding a requirement that the property owner is responsible for fees to move a fence in a boundary dispute; and ensuring the ordinance makes clear the City will not be required to pay compensation for moving a fence.
Commissioners also asked staff to distinguish a driveway/property access gate (a gate that permits vehicle entry to a lot) from gates installed congruent with a fence, and to change wording in Section B from 'restrictions' to 'requirements.' The commission recommended updating acreage language in Section A.10.a from '5 acres' to '2.5' to match the current ordinance.
Commissioner Jim Schendel expressed interest in monitoring fence placement to keep fences out of sight lines. City Planner Nash said she will provide an updated draft fence ordinance for consideration at the next meeting.
The commission also approved several routine items during the session, including moving the May 25, 2026 Planning Commission meeting to Wednesday, May 27, 2026, because the original date falls on Memorial Day.
