Commission approves fence at 21 Cambridge Way despite neighbor objections over height

The Planning Commission approved a design‑review application for a stepped horizontal‑board fence at 21 Cambridge Way following a contested public hearing in which nearby residents said the fence, because of grade changes and steps, exceeded the 6‑foot height limit when measured from the adjacent property and blocked light and views.

Applicant Linda Lau (speaker 11) said the fence was designed with a minimum 6‑foot height and that topography forces variation; she and the project team presented elevation drawings and said some panels measure higher only because of the neighbor’s steps and grade differences. Several neighbors, including David (speaker 19) and Gloria (speaker 7), said parts of the fence are too tall and that the proximity and height create darkened interiors and poor air and light conditions. David said, "My house is so dark now," and asked the commission to enforce the original condition limiting the fence to 6 feet as measured from the adjacent grade.

Staff told the commission that a prior condition required fence elevations showing the fence would be no taller than 6 feet when measured from the 19 Cambridge Way grade and that the updated elevation drawings revealed some segments exceed that measurement due to stairs and retaining walls. After discussion about sawtooth stepping on irregular terrain and the visual impacts of shaving heights to exactly meet the 6‑foot measure, the commission approved the design on a 3‑to‑1 vote with four conditions including final staff review of elevation drawings and a confirmation of height before final inspection. Commissioner Yi cast the lone No vote and the record shows the motion passed.