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Residents urge Monterey Park to revise fence rules after hillside neighbors say views and airflow are lost
Summary
Several residents from Monterey Park's hillside neighborhoods told the council that a uniform 6-foot fence standard can block vistas, reduce airflow and lower property values; staff said they are researching view-preservation options and will follow up with those residents.
Multiple residents urged the council to revise municipal fence permitting and consider special rules for hillside lots, saying a standard 6-foot side/back fence can eliminate views and degrade neighborhood character.
Alisa Sermont told the council, "I am concerned about the erection of fences in Monterey Park around city lots," and described how the code assumes flat, square lots and does not account for hills and unusual lot lines. Winnie Lau said a neighbor's request for a shared 6-foot fence "would block virtually our entire view" and would reduce airflow in a home without central air. Chris Fairbanks asked the council to consider a temporary moratorium on new permits while staff reviews the regulations: "I would strongly ask or request that a moratorium be considered because the issue is so significant."
City staff acknowledged there have been multiple complaints and told the speakers staff is researching options. A city official said Tim Howe's department would follow up with the residents to share specifics and pursue potential code revisions.
