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Request by Kenzie Kokta for fence code exceptions for a front yard fence located at 8305 Currie Avenue
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Submitted by:
Andy Krause
Department:
Development/Building & Safety
A. Background
The applicant is requesting three code exceptions for a four-foot fence constructed in the front yard. While the house faces north, the east is considered the front of the lot.
Constructed fence
Three exceptions are requested:
1. Maximum height. The fence is 4 feet tall.
2. Setback. The fence is setback 1.1 feet from the south property line
3. Length of Fencing. The fence is 101 linear feet.
Allowed by City code
Under 15.28.030A., fences located in the front yard in residential districts cannot:
1. Exceed 3 feet in height.
2. Setback less than 3 feet from the side lot line
3. Extend more than 20% of the lot width in total length. The lot width is 45.8 feet. A maximum of 9.16 feet of fencing is allowed by code (20% of 45.8 feet).
Application information is attached.
B. Recommendation
Under the exception provisions, the applicant must demonstrate to the Board that a hardship exists created by conforming to the fence regulations. The Board should consider all of the following, making findings that each of these factors applies in favor of granting the exception:
1. Whether strict application of the code would create a hardship to the property owner;
2. Whether the hardship results from conditions which are unique to the property, or unusual in comparison to the properties to which the code is generally applicable; and
3. Whether the application of the exception will be consistent with the intent of the ordinance and not impair public safety.