In a recent government meeting, a request for a variance to allow a fence exceeding the standard height was discussed, alongside a proposal for a chicken coop in a residential area.

The first agenda item involved an applicant seeking a variance to Article Five, Section 547, which restricts fence heights to six feet in residential zones. The property in question, approximately 1.21 acres and zoned agricultural, is located at the intersection of Little Victoria Road and Victoria Road. The applicant's fence currently stands at varying heights, with sections reaching up to 12 feet due to elevation changes on the property. The applicant argued that the fence is necessary for safety, security, and privacy, and noted that they had received several signatures of support from neighbors.

During the discussion, it was clarified that the zoning ordinance measures fence height from the ground to the tallest point of the fence, including any elevation changes. The building department requires a permit for fences over seven feet, which the applicant had not obtained prior to erecting the fence. After deliberation, the board voted unanimously to approve the variance, contingent upon the applicant applying for the necessary permit within 30 days.

The second item on the agenda involved a request from Jason and Kelly Gallagher for two variances related to the placement of a chicken coop on their property, which is located in the East Cherokee Village subdivision. The couple sought permission to place the coop in their side yard rather than the backyard, citing the unique shape of their lot and drainage issues that make the backyard less suitable.

The Gallagher's property is a corner lot, and the zoning ordinance requires that accessory structures like chicken coops be located in the backyard. However, the couple argued that their backyard is not practical for such a structure due to flooding concerns. They presented signatures from neighbors in support of their request, while some residents expressed opposition, citing concerns about property values and the visibility of the coop from the street.

After hearing from both sides, the board acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the Gallagher's property but also recognized the importance of maintaining neighborhood aesthetics. A suggestion was made to conditionally approve the variance, requiring the Gallagher's to plant screening vegetation to mitigate visibility from the street. The board's discussion highlighted the balance between individual property rights and community standards, ultimately leading to a decision that reflects both the applicants' needs and the concerns of their neighbors.

The meeting underscored the complexities of zoning regulations and the importance of community input in local governance.