Commission briefing: proposed text amendment would allow 8‑foot commercial fences along highways

At the July 15 briefing, a planning department staff member described a proposed text amendment to Section 30.02.26 of the development code to allow fences and walls up to 8 feet in height for commercial developments along highways.

Under current language, staff said, fences over 6 feet and retaining walls over 4 feet are restricted; the proposed amendment would allow up to 8 feet for commercial properties along highway corridors while retaining the existing retaining‑wall limits. The staff member told commissioners the change was intended to address noise buffering and that compatible decorative elements could be required to improve design.

Staff recommended approval and said it believes taller fences in appropriate locations could help reduce traffic and speed noise for adjacent properties. The Red Rock Citizens Advisory Council recommended approval. The briefing record did not include a formal vote; the proposal will return for public hearing and formal action.

Why it matters: the amendment would change allowable fence height for a defined set of commercial properties along highways, which could affect landscaping and screening design as well as the visual character of highway corridors.

Next steps: the text amendment will be scheduled for public hearing where commissioners will take official action.