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Providers and licensing debate fence standard and realistic animal intrusion limits
Summary
Work group members argued a strict 'prevent contact with animals' fence standard could lead to citations for events beyond providers' control; licensing clarified the rule focuses on whether a fence functions as a barrier and said chain-link with mesh can be acceptable.
A proposed edit would remove text that required fences to 'prevent contact with animals or unauthorized persons,' because members said some animals can hop a standard 4-foot fence and that the language could expose centers to unfair citations for things beyond their control. One provider explained that mother nature sometimes defeats four‑foot barriers and asked for more feasible language to avoid citations.
Licensing staff responded that inspectors are focused on whether the fence functions as an effective barrier and that chain-link with mesh is acceptable "as long as it's in a way that protects the children." The group did not adopt final text and asked staff to refine the fence standard to balance practicality with protection.
