Commission allows either three-rail or picket fence for corner lot after visibility discussion

Rusty and Lucille O’Driscoll asked the Planning Commission for guidance on replacing a corner-lot fence that had been removed a few months prior, saying the original fence dated to a 1950 photo and that they prefer a scalloped picket design to restore the original look.

Rusty O’Driscoll described two options under consideration: “a three rail fence, which 2/3 of the road currently has,” and “a picket fence with open slats” with the picket’s scallop measuring about 40" to the top and posts every eight feet at 48". He said measuring from center, the picket would be about 3" too tall relative to the typical 36" allowance.

Commissioners discussed sight-line and safety concerns. Carrie Mecham raised visibility where the corner is cut and noted a turnaround sign has been placed; she suggested a concrete barrier as an alternative to protect the corner. Spencer Foster summarized the code guidance: fences are generally allowed to 36", and taller fences may be permitted if set back at least 20 feet from the street side and outside the clear-vision area, which is typically a triangular area measured 25 feet from the road.

After discussion about aesthetics, slope challenges for a picket fence, and precedent in town, Tammy Graham moved that the O’Driscolls may choose either fence option; Dennis Phillips seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous. The commission did not adopt a formal code amendment at the meeting but discussed that this parcel’s situation does not precisely match the intersection conditions described by the clear-vision rule.