Resident seeks change to fence rules after windscreen violation; council points to pending code rewrite

Richard Coles, a Neenah resident, told the council he received a notice from the building inspector giving him until July 18 to remove a windscreen on a chain‑link fence at his corner property. Coles said the windscreen has been in place since June 2022 and that it improves privacy and appearance; he asked the council to amend code language so similar windscreens would be permitted when well maintained.

Council members and staff explained that the city’s code treats some rear yards as a "second front yard," which can impose stricter standards because of visibility at intersections. Alderman Deffering told Coles he sympathized and said he did not understand the aesthetic restriction, calling it "just aesthetics, and it's dumb." City staff and aldermen said the community development department is reviewing antiquated rules and urged residents to participate in public outreach.

Officials also announced a joint plan commission and council meeting on Sept. 2 at 4 p.m. to discuss the code rewrite; staff encouraged Coles and other residents to bring examples to that meeting. The council agreed staff would coordinate with Coles on the enforcement timeline while the code rewrite and public engagement proceed.