Planning commission recommends raising front-yard fence height to 4 feet

The Atlanta Town Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Town Council amend the town zoning code to raise the maximum permitted front-yard fence height from 3 feet to 4 feet.

The Chair read the ordinance language and the commission’s resolution, saying the change affects zoning ordinance Section 7.21 (f n-01 c). The Chair read the commission finding as written: "the planning commission finds the amendment for 7 dot 21 f n dash 0 1 as detailed in his exhibit a is certified and receives a favorable recommendation." The Commissioner moved to send the amendment to the council for consideration; the Chair seconded and the recorded vote was unanimous.

The Chair told the Commission the change was intended to make it easier for residents to build or replace fences using common, commercially available sizes. As the Chair put it, "I think we ought to" adopt the higher front-yard maximum. The Chair also noted the commission previously voted on an adjustment "from 36 to 42 inches" to simplify compliance with standard fencing heights.

Under the procedural direction taken at the meeting, staff will present the certified amendment to the Town Council for adoption into the Town of Atlanta's zoning code; the draft resolution in the record is dated "Proposed and certified this the July 2026."