Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Property Code topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Resident asks council for waiver after installing privacy fence with 6-inch gap; council says it's likely a neighbor dispute
Summary
A resident, Cheryl, asked the council for relief after installing a privacy fence that leaves a 6-inch gap to a neighbor's fence and sought a waiver to avoid fines; council said fence variances are not appropriate, suggested civil resolution, and said staff will review options.
Cheryl, who identified herself during the meeting, asked whether the village could grant a waiver for a privacy fence that leaves only a 6-inch gap next to a neighbor’s fence, saying the narrow space makes maintenance impossible and that she fears being fined when she can’t complete staining or repairs.
"It's impossible to get down in there," Cheryl said, describing the 6-inch gap and saying the family spent about $9,000 to install the fence and want assurance the next homeowner will not be penalized. Council members and staff said fence variances are typically not the appropriate remedy and warned that making a one-off exception could set a precedent. Councilmember Mr. Rush said the situation appears to be a neighbor dispute more suited for civil resolution and that the village’s hands are limited.
Council did not promise a waiver; staff said they would look into the situation and follow up with Cheryl about options, but cautioned that code and precedent constrain what the village can do. The council encouraged Cheryl to pursue dialogue with her neighbor while staff researches any administrative remedies.
Next steps: staff will review the specific code language and possible administrative options and report back to Cheryl and the council.
