Board approves two residential fence encroachments after staff checks

The Columbia City Board of Works and Safety approved two residential encroachment/improvement agreements for backyard fences at its June 23 meeting.

David Chapel came to the podium to request permission for a fence at his property listed in the meeting record as 1146 West (the spoken record alternately referenced the location as 'Cricket Tree' and later as 'Perkins Street Drive' in motion language). Staff said the utilities behind the lot are under RMC jurisdiction and that the city controls street lighting; they reported no unresolved easement conflicts. Leslie told the resident she would return final paperwork to the building/planning department by noon the following day so the resident could complete permit steps.

Josh Sparks, who identified himself as living at 508 West Hominy Parkway, also requested a fence. Sparks said the drainage department is already working on a non-catch pipe that runs through his property; staff emphasized that the homeowner or contractor must arrange utility locates prior to installation so fence posts do not hit water, sewer, stormwater or electric lines.

In both cases, a board member moved and the board seconded motions to approve the encroachment/improvement agreements as presented; both motions passed unanimously. Staff reiterated standard cautions: have contractors call utility locates before digging and expect the city to notify homeowners in advance if crews must access easements, but the city reserved the right to remove fencing in a right-of-way if needed.