Peosta approves first reading of fence rules; council declines to waive remaining readings

The Peosta City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance that clarifies rules for fences in the city’s zoning code but declined to waive remaining readings, scheduling a second reading in two weeks.

Council opened a public hearing on proposed fence regulations, received no remote testimony, and then considered the ordinance. Staff told the council that the proposal clarifies fence heights, corner lines and how permits and the ordinance should read consistently. After discussion about whether neighbors had further input, the council approved the ordinance on first reading.

A subsequent motion to waive the second and third readings was made and seconded but failed on a recorded vote; the council agreed to return the ordinance for a second reading in two weeks. The transcript shows council members divided on waiving readings, and staff recommended leaving the item on the agenda to allow additional public notice.

Staff clarified that fences already in place would not be affected by the new language, saying those existing installations would remain as currently built, while replacement of a fence or substantial reconstruction could be treated as a new fence and therefore be subject to Board of Adjustment review under the ordinance’s definitions.

Robin, who presented the Heart & Soul report earlier in the meeting, returned to the podium during citizen comment to voice support for the change: “I’m just super excited that you’re going to do something about the fences,” Robin said, noting residents had struggled with the prior process.

The council asked staff whether the ordinance defines what constitutes a new fence; staff confirmed the definition appears in the proposed language. The fence ordinance will return for the next required reading and vote.