Fence redesign at 80 E. Waterloo approved with trimmed, paneled finish to preserve tree and neighborhood character

The Landmarks Commission approved a revised fencing plan for 80 East Waterloo Street (CA26031) aimed at resolving a long, noncompliant and over-height fence that encroached on front-yard setbacks and threatened an existing magnolia tree. Staff and the owner worked on a compromise that brings the fence height down to code (maximum 6 ft where allowed), steps the line to preserve the tree and fills an opening at the garage with a picket style matching the adjacent fence.

Commissioners asked the owner to add top and bottom trim rails, use 6x6 posts and consider a panelized or sandwich (board-on-board) construction so the fence reads as a balanced panel rather than a heavy flat board. The applicant agreed to scallop or step the top around the tree to preserve roots and sightlines; the motion to approve with the specified trim and construction details passed unanimously on roll call.