Hillside Fences, Hedges, Walls- Staff Report and Exhibits 8-10
PREPARED BY: SEAN MULLIN, AICP
Associate Planner
Reviewed by: Planning Manager and Community Development Director
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6874
www.losgatosca.gov
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
PLANNING COMMISSION
REPORT
MEETING DATE: 09/13/2017 ITEM NO: 2
DATE: SEPTEMBER 8, 2017 TO: PLANNING COMMISSION FROM: JOEL PAULSON, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SUBJECT: TOWN CODE AMENDMENT APPLICATION A-17-002. PROJECT LOCATION:
TOWN WIDE. APPLICANT: TOWN OF LOS GATOS. CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 29 (ZONING REGULATIONS) OF THE TOWN CODE REGARDING FENCES, HEDGES, AND WALLS.
BACKGROUND:
The Planning Commission considered amendments to Chapter 29 (Zoning Regulations) of the
Town Code regarding fences, hedges, and walls on July 26, 2017. At this meeting, the Planning
Commission received the Staff Report, considered comments from the public, and continued
consideration to the September 23, 2017, Planning Commission meeting. The Planning
Commission provided staff with direction to address some questions and requests raised by
Commissioners.
DISCUSSION:
A. Planning Commissioner’s Questions and Requests
Request: Other Ordinances from similar communities.
While developing the draft Ordinance, staff reviewed Ordinances and guiding documents
from the City of Saratoga, the City of Los Altos Hills, the Town of Portola Valley, and the
Town of Woodside. These communities were selected based on their similarities with Los
Gatos’ hillside areas. These Ordinances and guiding documents are included as Exhibit 9.
Question: Do other communities have similar issues related to coyotes and were their
solutions effective?
Other communities do have similar issues, however, data on this issue is not available.
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Question: Is there a distance for a protective fence to be effective against Lyme disease?
Staff was able to locate two peer-reviewed journal articles finding that fencing can be
effective in reducing tick populations by reducing the presence of deer on a property,
however, both articles were based in the eastern United States and studied very large
parcels of land. Staff was unable to locate any information related to the effectiveness of
fencing in reducing tick populations in communities of similar location, with similar lot sizes,
and similar host animals (deer, squirrels, etc.).
Question: How do we balance the competing interests of property owners who wish to
allow for large fenced-in areas for their pets to explore and the concerns for preserving
and reinforcing wildlife corridors?
Staff recommends the Planning Commission discuss this question, consider alternatives, and
provide direction to staff for any required revisions to the draft Ordinance.
Question: Does the proposed amendment restricting non-wildlife friendly fencing to areas
within 30 feet of the primary dwelling unit make sense?
Staff recommends the Planning Commission discuss this question, consider alternatives, and
provide direction to staff for any required revisions to the draft Ordinance.
Question: Is the fee ($2,223) associated with the proposed requirement to obtain a Minor
Residential Development approval appropriate?
Staff included the requirement for Minor Residential Development approval as the least
expensive permit with a prescribed notification process and as a point to begin the
discussion. The Planning Commission could consider an alternative method and fee for
permitting fencing. Staff recommends that the fee be structured as a “time and materials”
cost to allow the Town to track the true cost of reviewing and approving permits for fencing
to develop an appropriate fixed fee in the future.
B. Changes in working draft of Ordinance since previous meeting
Following the Planning Commission meeting of July 26, 2017, staff considered the feedback
from the Planning Commission and the public to refine the working draft of the Ordinance.
Staff also met with David Weissman and Lee Quintana in August to discuss further
refinements to the proposed amendments. Exhibit 8 is an updated working draft of the
proposed Ordinance amendments, including revisions and refinements marked in red
underlined font.
C. Staff’s Concerns
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission review the revised draft Ordinance
amendments (Exhibit 8). As discussed in the previous Staff Report, staff has concerns with
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some of the proposed amendments, but looks forward to the Planning Commission’s
discussion on the Ordinance amendments in general, and in particular requests that the
Planning Commission discuss the following topics:
• The appropriateness of the proposed “Vision Statement” language included under
Purpose and Intent (Exhibit 8, page 2: Purpose and Intent). This language has been
revised since the July 26, 2017 meeting to more directly tie the Ordinance to the Hillside
Development Standards and Guidelines document;
• Hillside fences would require approval of a Minor Residential Development application
at a current cost of $2,223.00 [Exhibit 8, pages 4 and 5: (A and B)(1)]. Staff recommends
a “Time and Materials” cost structure to potentially reduce costs to the applicant;
• The siting, design, and materials of hillside fences would be strictly regulated (Exhibit 8,
pages 3 and 4);
• The design and height of hillside fencing would be dictated by its proximity to the
primary dwelling unit [Exhibit 8, pages 4 and 5: (B)(4, 5, and 7)]. Fences over 42 inches
tall would be limited to an area within 30 feet of the residence [Exhibit 8, page 3: (B)];
and
• Replacement and modification of hillside fencing would be required to meet the new
regulations for hillside fences [Exhibit 8, page 5: (C)].
D. Effects on Properties
Q. Would fence regulations for non-hillside area (those outside of the hillside overlay
regardless of slope) properties change?
A. Fence regulations for non-hillside area properties would remain consistent with
existing regulations with only minor clarifications regarding appropriate materials for
fences [Exhibit 8, page 4: (C)]. Permits would not be required for fences six feet or less
in height on non-hillside properties [Exhibit 8, page 3: (A)].
Q. Would I need a permit to construct a new fence on my hillside area property?
A. Yes, the proposed Ordinance would require that a hillside property owner receive
approval of a Minor Residential Development application to construct any fence. The
fee for a Minor Residential Development for minor projects is currently $2,223.00, but
a “time and materials” cost structure could be used. A Building Permit would not be
required for fences that do not exceed six feet in height.
Q. Are there particular materials or designs for hillside area fences that are not allowed
under the proposed Ordinance?
A. Yes, the proposed Ordinance prohibits specific materials and designs, such as chain
link, chicken wire, wire mesh, etc. [Exhibit 8, pages 4 and 5, (6) and (7)]. It also requires
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that fences located greater than 30 feet from the primary dwelling unit be of open-
view design.
Q. Is the type of fencing allowed on a hillside area property dependent on its location on
the property?
A. Yes, within the Hillside Areas of the Town, the proposed Ordinance breaks properties
into two zones: areas within 30 feet of the primary dwelling unit and areas greater than
30 feet from the primary dwelling unit. This distinction aligns with the planting zones
described on page 26 of the HDS&G. Fences within Planting Zone 1 would be regulated
in the same manner as fences on non-hillside area properties. Fences outside this zone
would be limited by specific regulations related to wildlife friendliness, height (both
maximum and minimum above grade), design, and siting. Walls, other than retaining
walls approved by the Town, would be prohibited unless needed to address a specific
privacy concern.
Q. My hillside area property includes existing fencing that does not meet the standards
included in the proposed Ordinance amendments. If I would like to replace or modify
the existing fencing, would it have to meet the proposed regulations?
A. Yes, replacement or modification of existing fencing that does not meet the proposed
requirements would have to meet the proposed Ordinance amendments. Repair to
sections of existing fencing would be allowed and would not be required to meet the
proposed Ordinance amendments, however, repair would be limited to short sections
of fences within a 12-month period.
CEQA:
The project is Categorically Exempt pursuant to the adopted Guidelines for the Implementation
of the California Environmental Quality Act, Section 15061(b)(3), in that it can be seen with
certainty that there is no possibility that the proposed amendments to the Town Code will have
a significant effect on the environment.
FINDINGS:
As required, pursuant to the adopted Guidelines for the Implementation of the California
Environmental Quality Act, this project is Exempt, Section 15061(b)(3); and
That the Town Code amendments are consistent with the General Plan.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Written comments regarding the proposed amendments received after the July 26, 2017,
Planning Commission meeting are included in Exhibit 10.
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CONCLUSION:
A. Recommendation
Based on the analysis above and consistency with the General Plan, staff recommends that
the Planning Commission forward the draft Town Code amendments to the Town Council
with a recommendation for adoption. The Commission should also include any comments
or recommended changes to the draft Town Code amendments in taking the following
actions:
1. Make the finding that there is no possibility that this project will have a significant
impact on the environment; therefore, the project is not subject to the California
Environmental Quality Act [Section 15061 (b) (3).] (Exhibit 1);
2. Make the required finding that the proposed amendments to the Town Code (Zoning
Regulations) are consistent with the General Plan (Exhibit 1); and
3. Forward a recommendation to the Town Council for approval of the proposed
amendments to the Town Code (Exhibit 8).
B. Alternatives
Alternatively, the Commission can:
1. Forward a recommendation to the Town Council for approval of the proposed
amendments to the Town Code with modifications; or
2. Forward a recommendation to the Town Council for denial of the proposed
amendments to the Town Code; or
3. Continue the matter to a date certain with specific direction.
EXHIBITS:
Previously received with July 26, 2017 Staff Report
1. Findings
2. Ordinance Priorities Memorandum dated February 12, 2017, from Robert Shultz, Town
Attorney
3. Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code
4. General Plan Policies and Actions pertaining to Fences, wildlife habitats, and migration
corridors
5. Hillside Development Standards and Guidelines pertaining to fences
6. Public Comments received by 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 21, 2017
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Previously received with July 26, 2017 Desk Item.
7. Public Comment received between 11:01, Friday, July 21, 2017, and 11:00 a.m., Wednesday,
July 26, 2017
Received with this Staff Report.
8. Revised Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of the Town Code
9. Neighboring Jurisdictions Fencing Regulations
10. Public Comments received between 11:01, Wednesday, July 26, 2017 and 11:00 a.m.,
Friday, September 8, 2017
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
**Note: Underlined text is new language.
Sec. 29.20.480. -Administrative procedure for minor residential projects.
(1) This procedure is established for review of minor residential projects to provide for neighborhood
review in a timely and streamlined process. This process shall be used by the Planning Director for
projects listed in section 29.20.480(2) and by the Development Review Committee for reviewing
projects identified in subsections 29.20.745(12) and (15).
(a) An application and fee is submitted . In addition to the standard application materials
(application and plans), the applicant will be required to submit one set of stamped, addressed
envelopes to neighboring residents and property owners. The Planning Department will assist
the applicant in determining the properties to be notified (all properties abutting the
applicant's parcel, properties directly across the street and the two parcels on each side of it).
(b) The deciding body reviews the application using the Town's Development Standards, as well as
the Town Code requirements.
(c) If the Planning Director intends to approve the application, a "Notice of Pending Approval" will
be mailed to neighboring residents and property owners including any applicable conditions,
exactions or dedications as required. The notice will advise the residents and property owners
of the applicant's plans, and that the application will be approved unless there is an objection .
The residents and property owners have ten days from the date of the "Notice of Pending
Approval" in which to review the application and to notify the Planning Director in writing of
any concerns or problems.
(d) If a written objection to the project is not filed within the ten -day period , the application may
be approved . If a written objection is filed but the differences in opinion can be worked out to
the satisfaction of all objectors, then the application may also be approved. Once the zoning
approval is granted, a building permit may be applied for and issued , subject to the conditions
of the zoning approval.
(e) If an objection to the project is filed in a timely manner and the differences cannot be resolved
at the staff level, the application i s scheduled before the Planning Commission on the next
available agenda for consideration at the applicant's cost. All property owners and residents
notified originally shall be notified of the Planning Commission meeting.
(f) If the Planning Director determines that the application cannot be approved because it does
not comply with the Town's Development Standards and the applicant is unwilling to revise
the plans, then the applicant will be required to file an Architecture and Site Application
(including the required fee) and the application shall be considered by the Planning
Commission.
(2) In addition to the projects identified in subsections 29 .20.745(12) and (15), the following projects
will be considered under this administrative procedure .
(a) New second -story additions to single and two-family dwellings.
(b) Additions to an existing second story where the additional area will exceed one hundred (100)
square feet.
Pag e 1of6 Dra ft 9/8/17
EXHIBIT 8
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
(c) Reconstruction to a portion of a single or two-family dwelling or an accessory structure with a
nonconforming setback.
(d) Accessory structures exceeding a combined square footage of four hundred fifty (450) square
feet.
(e) Additions to accessory structures resulting in the structures containing a combined square
footage more than four hundred fifty (450) square feet.
(f) Request to reduce side and rear yard setback requ irements for accessory structures.
(g) Sport court lighting and/or fencing over six (6) feet high enclosing court game areas.
(h) New fences. walls, gates. gateways. entry arbors, and hedges within the Hillside Area.
(Ord . No. 1963, §IV, 11-15-93; Ord. No. 2100, §II, 7-1-02; Ord . No. 2149, §I, 5-1-06)
Sec. 29.40.030. Fences, walls, gates, gateways, entry arbors, and hedges.
Sec . 29 .40.030xx. -Purpose and intent.
The Fence Ordinance is divided into two parts : non-hillside and hillside areas . The use of fences , walls,
gates. gateways, entry arbors, and hedges in the hillside areas shall be minimized and located so that
natural landforms appear to flow together and are not disconnected . The primary emphasis shall be on
maintaining open views. protecting wildlife corridors, and mai ntaining the rural, open, and natural
character of the hillsides . Additional details are available in the Town's Hillside Development Standards
and Guidelines.
Sec. 29.40.030xx. -Definitions .
The following words, terms, and phrases , when used in this division. shall have the meanings ascribed to
them in this section.
Fence means a man-made structure serving as a barrier or screen constn.icted of wood, metal, wire ,
masonry, glass, plastic, stone or any material.
Fence height means measured from finished grade and shall be measured from either side of the
property line which affords affected property owners the most buffering from noise, light, glare, or
privacy impacts.
Hedge means a boundary formed by closely growing deciduous or evergreen bushes or shrubs.
Hillside lot means a parcel of land that is shown on the Hillside Area Map in the Hillside Development
Standards and Guidelines regardless of zoning district.
Movement corridor means a movement pathway that is typically independent of season and used by
animals on a near daily basis for the acquisition of food, shelter, water, and mates.
Open-view design means a fence or other structure that permits views through it.
Planting Zone 1 means that area within a 30-foot radius of the primary dwelling unit on a hillside lot.
Retaining wall means a man-made structure designed to retain soil.
Riparian corridor means an area comprised of habitat strongly influenced and delineated by the
presence of perennial or intermittent streams.
Page 2 of 6 Draft 9/8/17
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
Stream means a body of water that flows at least periodically or intermittently through a bed or channel
having banks. The body of water may include watercourses having a surface or subsurface flow that
supports or has supported riparian vegetation , fish, or aquatic life.
Top of bank means a stream boundary where a majority of normal discharges and channel forming
activities take place. The top of bank will contain the active channel. active floodplain, and their
associated banks . Where there are no distinguishable features to locate the top of bank, the local
permitting agency will make a determination and document as appropriate . In the absence of this
determination, the 100-year water surface will be used .
Traffic view area means that area, on corner lots, which is within fifteen (15) feet of a public street and
within two hundred (200) feet of the right-of-way line of an intersection, or a distance of thirty (30) feet
measured horizontally in any direction from the point of intersection of the property lines at street
corners.
Wall means a man-made structure that defines an area, carries a load, or provides shelter or security.
Wildlife-friendly design means a fence, wall, hedge, or other structure that permits any animal,
regardless of size, to easily climb under, pass through, or jump over.
Sec. 29.40.030xx. -Non-hillside lots: Proposed new fences, walls, gates, gateways, entry arbors, and
hedges.
(A) In residential zones, no permits are required for the repair, replacement, or construction of
fences, walls, gates, gateways, entry arbors, or hedges that are less than six (6) feet high on, or
within all property lines.
(B) The following height exceptions shall apply:
(1) Corner lot: In a traffic view area , no corner lot or premises in the Town shall have any fence ,
wall, gate, gateway, entry arbor, or hedge higher than three (3) feet above the curb unless
permission is secured from the Town Engineer.
(2) Properties not on a street corner: At the discretion of the Director of Community
Development, side yard and rear yard fences, walls, gate, gateways, entry arbors, or hedges,
behind the front yard setback, may be a maximum of eight (8) feet high provided the
property owner can provide written justification to the Planning Department that
demonstrates either of the following conditions exists:
a. A special privacy concern exists that cannot be practically addressed by additional
landscaping or tree sc reening.
b. A special wildlife/animal problem affects the property that cannot be practically
addressed through alternatives. Documented instance s of wildlife grazing on
gardens or ornamental landscaping may be an example of such a problem .
(3) Historic Districts and/or Landmark and Historic Preservation Overlay: The maximum height
of fences in the front yard shall be three (3) feet and shall be of open-view design .
(4) Gateways or entryway arbors: May be up to eight (8) feet high, including within Historic
Districts or for properties with a Landmark and Historic Preservation Overlay, and shall be of
open-view design. A gateway or entryway arbor shall have a maximum width of six (6) feet
and a maximum depth of four (4) feet. No more than one (1) gateway or entryway arbor
per street frontage is allowed.
Page 3 of 6 Draft 9/8/17
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
(5) Adjacent to commercial property: Boundary line fences or wall s adjacent to commercial
property may be eight (8) feet high if reque sted or agreed upon by a majority of the
adjacent residential property owners.
(C) Materials. The type of fencing materials within the non -hillside zone are generally unrestricted,
and fences can be a combination of materials, with the following exceptions:
(1) Plastic fencing is discouraged everywhere and is prohibited in Historic Districts.
(2) Barbed wire or razor ribbon wire is prohibited in all zones.
Sec . 29.40.030xx. -Hillside lots: Proposed new fences, walls, gates, gateways, entry arbors, and
hedges.
This division section covers any new fence. wall, gate, gateway, entry arbor, or hedge, and the
replacement, modification, and/or repair of any existing fence. wall, gate, gateway, entry arbor, or
hedge whether the primary dwelling unit is new or existing. In the absence of a primary dwelling unit,
an entire hillside lot, including any accessory structures such as a barn. storage shed, stable, or similar
structure, shall be covered by the conditions of this Section.
(A) Within 30 feet of primary dwelling unit (Planting Zone 1):
(1) Approvals: Minor Residential Development approval is required pursuant to Section
29 .20.480(2)(h). The permit shall be posted on site during construction.
(2) Are subject to the provisions of Sec. 29.40.030, Non-hillside residential lots above .
(3) Riparian corridor. No fence, wall, gate or hedge shall be constructed within a riparian
corridor or within 30 feet of its top of bank .
(4) Prohibited materials. Barbed or razor wire fences, including any fence with attached barbs,
sharp points, or razors, are prohibited.
(B) Greater than 30 feet from primary dwelling unit (outside Planting Zone 1):
(1) Approvals : Minor Residential Development approval is required pursuant to Section
29.20.480(2)(h). The permit shall be posted on site during construction .
(2) Accessory structures. Fences associated with accessory structures, if located farther than 30
feet from the primary dwelling unit, shall be governed by this section .
(3) Wildlife friendly. All fences, walls, gates, and hedges shall be of wildl ife -friendly design . If a
new hillside fence is, in part, closer than 30 feet to the primary dwelling unit and, elsewhere,
farther than 30 feet from the primary dwelling unit, the portion that is farther than 30 feet
shall be of wildlife-friendly design.
(4) Maximum height :
a. New fences . The maximum height of new fences shall be 42 inches.
b . Hedges . Hedges shall be maintained at a maximum height of 60 inches (5 feet).
c. Hedges shall have two-to four-foot-wide gaps at least every 25 feet.
(5) Minimum height above grade:
a. New Fences . The minimum height above grade of new fence s shall be 16 in ches.
(6) The following fence types are not of wildlife-friendly design and are therefore prohibited :
a. Chain-link, chicken wire, welded wire, wire mesh , cyclone or similar fence material
Page 4 of 6 Draft 9/8/17
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
b. Buck and rail fences.
c. Any fence with bare lengths of wire stretched between posts.
d. Electric fences, including any fence designed to produce an electric shock, except
where necessary for animal husbandry operations.
e. Barbed or razor wire fences, including any fence with attached barbs, sharp points,
or razors .
(7) Fence design.
a. Fences shall be of an open-view design that does not detract from the scenic nature
or character of the surrounding area.
b. Traditional split-rail fences are encouraged. Rural styles shall emphasize natural
colors such as brown, grey or green .
c. Fences shall have a top level of wood (or similar material) rail rather than wire.
d. Split rail fences shall include a minimum 12-inch spacing between rails wherever
feasible.
e. Hedge plant species shall consist of those listed in Appendix A of the Hillside
Development Standards and Guidelines.
f. The spacing of vertical fence posts shall be at least .W 8 feet apart, unless physically
impossible due to terrain or other conditions.
(8) Fence, wall, gate. and hedge siting:
a. Fences and hedges shall be located to follow natural contours, whenever possible .
b. Fences and hedges shall be located to avoid impacts to trees, animal movement
corridors, and other natural features.
c. No fence. wall, gate or hedge shall be constructed within a riparian corridor, stream,
or within 30 feet of its top of bank.
d. No fence, wall, gate, or hedge shall be constructed in the public or private right-of-
way or within any trail easement or other easement precluding their construction
unless allowed, in writing, by the Town Engineer.
(9) Walls :
a. Walls are prohibited unless needed for privacy as determined by the Director of
Community Development.
b. Town approved retaining walls are permitted.
(C) Replacement or modification of existing fences, walls, hedges or gates:
(1) Shall be subject to the requirements in this Ordinance. The permit will be posted on site
during construction.
(2) Are encouraged if such changes improve wildlife movement or animal corridors.
(3) Replacement or modification of any fence, wall, hedge or gate shall be prohibited if the
Town Engineer determines that a public safety hazard exists.
(D) Repair. A permit is not required for repair te of short sections of existing fences, walls, or
hedges less tl~an SO feet in lengtl:l anel/or no greater than ~ 50 percent of tet<H each fence, wall,
or hedge fe.Agth section, provided no other repair work is done on the same structure over a 12-
month period.
Pa ge 5 of 6 Draft 9/8/17
Draft Amendments to Chapter 29 of Town Code -Hillside Fences
(E) Exceptions:
(1) Fences around swimming pools, outdoor sports courts, and similar structures are not
required to be of wildlife-friendly design, even if farther than 30 feet from the primary
dwelling unit (see Sec. 29.10.09020 for other swimming pool requirements). Sport court
fencing may be 12 feet in height.
(2) A temporary (1 to 3 year), animal excluding, circular enclosing fence may be erected to
protect a newly planted tree or shrub.
(3) Enclosure fencing around vineyards, orchards, and vegetable gardens shall be limited to
those areas requiring enclosure and does not have to be wildlife friendly even if farther than
30 feet from the primary dwelling unit.
(4) Fences needed for livestock control do not have to be of wildlife-friendly design even if
farther than 30 feet from the primary dwelling unit.
(5) Security fencing required to protect a public utility installation does not have to be wildlife
friendly.
(6) Written exceptions may be granted when the Director of Community Development finds
that the strict application of these requirements will result in a hardship for the property
owner.
(F) Fees. The fee, as adopted by Town Resolution for Minor Residential development, prescribed
therefore in the municipal fee schedule, shall accompany any application for a fence in the
Hillside area submitted to the Town for review and evaluation pursuant to this division.
(G) Enforcement. Any fence, wall, gate, gateway, entry arbor, or hedge constructed, replaced,
modified, or repaired without required approval, is a violation of this Code.
(H) Where a conflict exists between the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) of a
hillside Planned Development (PD) and this document, the requirements of this document shall
prevail.
(I) Notices. Noticing shall comply with the public noticing procedures of section 29 .20.480 of the
Town Code.
(Ord. No.1316, § 4.10.020, 6-7-76; Ord. No. 1493, 3-17-81; Ord. No. 1873, §I, 10-7-91; Ord. No . 2049, §
I, 10-5-98; Ord. No . 2062, §I, 6-21-99; Ord. No. XXXX, §)
Page 6 of 6 Draft 9/8/17
I
q;)
CITY OF SARATOGA
FENCES
The maximum height of a fence i s three feet in the front setba c k area and/or the exteri o r side se tback area of a reverse d comer lo t.
Outside of the front and exterior side setback areas, the maximum height of a solid fence is six feet. An additional two feet of lattice (or similar
material) that is at least 25% open may be added to the top of a solid fence , outside of the front setback area. Likewise, an open fence (e.g., wrought
iron, split rail) may be up to eight feet in height, outside of the front setback area. No slats are allowed in the opening. With the exception of chain
link, open fencing shall have an open diameter of at least four inches. For chain link fencing , the opening shall be two inches at minimum.
PILASTERS AND ATTACHED ARBORS
Notwithstanding the rules for driveway and street intersections, the maximum height of a pilaster is five feet in the front setback area and/or the
exterior side setback area of a reversed comer lot.
Notwithstanding the rules for driveway and street intersections, you may attach a trellis or arbor to your fence, up to eight feet in height, five feet
wide, and five feet deep.
VEHICLE ACCESS GATES
Wrought iron vehicle access gates may be up to five feet in height and must be located a minimum of 20 f eet from the edge of street pavement.
STREET AND DRIVEWAY INTERSECTIONS
The max imum height of a fence, hedge, retaining wall, entryway element, pilaster, gate, or other similar element is three feet within fifty feet from a
street intersection and/or within twelve feet from a driveway intersection. See diagrams on reverse
RETAINING WALLS
The maximum height of a retaining wall in a front or exterior side setback area is three feet .
The maximum height of a retaining wall outside of a front or exterior side setback area is five feet.
OTHER
Please review the Fence Ordinance for more information, including swimming pool fences, fences on heritage lanes, fences in hillside districts,
fences along major streets, and fence exceptions.
**Setbacks are determined by the zoning district in which the property is located**
A building permit is required for any solid fence more than six feet in height
f.XliIBlT 9 1
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CITY 0 F SARATOGA
EXAMPLES
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TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
26379 Fremont Road
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Phone: (650) 941-7222
www.losaltoshills.ca. gov
LOSALTOS HILIB ..
CAL IFOR NIA
Fences, Walls, Gates, and Columns
Revised-6/25/14
This application packet provides information nece ssa ry to apply for any of the items listed
above. A building permit may also be necessary but will not be iss ued until a Zoning permit has
been approved.
ZONING PERMIT APPLICATION:
A Zoning Permit is required to place any fence, column, or wall on your property. Your
application will be reviewed by the Planning Department for completeness and conformity with
the Town's Zoning Ordinance. The zoning review will check three major aspects of your project.
1. Height
2. Setbacks
3. Openness (solid vs. 50% open)
Requirements of a Zoning Permit
Fences, columns , and walls are generally not considered to be "lot coverage" therefore it is not
necessary to calculate your lot's maximum development area (MDA) or building coverage
allowances unles s your application also includes some items that are considered lot coverage,
such as patios or decks. If so, please pick up th e appropriate information packets from Town
Hall. You must provide the following information before your application will be reviewed.
When the application is considered complete, it will be approved or denied based on whether or
not it conforms to the Zoning Ordinance.
I . Completed and s igned application.
2. Three (3) copies of a plot plan at a scale of I"= 20' for lots less than 2 acres and I"= 40'
for lots over 2 acres; not to exceed 2' x 3' in dimension and folded individually into
eighths, showing the following :
a. Location of fences, columns, walls , etc.
b. Location of all property lines and dimensions of the lot.
c. Location , dimension, and character of all existing easements.
3. Three copies of elevations indicating height of fence, co lumns, or wall from natural
grade, materials and type of construction.
Fences and Walls
Page 2
4 . I 0 Day Courtesy Notices : Courtesy Notices will be sent by the Town to adjoining
property owners when new and replacement fences, gates, or walls are proposed within
I 0 feet of a shared property boundary. Fence Permits that are compliant with Section I 0-
1.507 will be approved after I 0 calendar days.
5. Plans indicating landscaping or other measures proposed to screen the wall, fence, or
columns.
6 . Fee of $440 (check or cash only).
The Town has permit history for many lots in the Town. If you have no information on your
property, please come in and see what is available. You may review plans and other information
without an appointment. Subdivision files, when available , will show most easement and other
legal aspects of your property. Attached to this packet, please find the Zoning Ordinance Section
regarding fences and setbacks.
Fences and Walls
Page 3
Los Altos Hills Municipal Code
Title 10-Zoning
Section 10-1.507. Fences, Walls, Gates, and Columns.
a. Purpose. The following regulations were created to preserve the beauty and open rural
quality of the Town while acknowledging that residents have the right to fence their
properties in order to protect their children, contain their animals, and maintain privacy.
b . Permits required . No fence, wall , gate, or column structure shall be erected or replaced
without the prior issuance of a zoning or site development permit from the Town.
c . Definitions. The following definitions are established for the purpose of this Article and
the meaning and construction of words and phrases is as follows:
Legal Nonconforming Structure: Refer to Section 10-1.401 (h) of the Zoning Ordinance.
Column: A round or square pillar, pole, or post flanking an entrance way constructed of such
materials as brick, stone, concrete, or other materials. Includes mailbox columns.
Wall: An upright structure of wood, stone, brick, or other substance or combination of
substances serving to enclose, divide, or support and usually having greater mass than a fence.
Fence: A structure serving as a barrier or screen constructed of wood, metal, wire , masonry,
glass, plastic or any other material (not including graded berms or living hedges).
Gate : A movable frame or solid structure that swings, slides, or rolls controlling ingress and
egress through an opening in a fence, wall, or vegetation.
Open Fence or Gate: A fence or gate constructed in such a way so that no more than fifty (50%)
percent of the surface area obstructs a ground level view through the fence or gate.
Solid Fence or Gate: A fence or gate constructed in such a way so that more than fifty (50%)
percent of the surface area obstructs a ground level view through the fence or gate.
d. Prohibited fences , walls, gates, columns types. The following fences are prohibited:
1. Chain-link or cyclone fences, including any fence with bare lengths of wire
stretched between metal poles, with the exception of dark green, black, or brown
vinyl-coated chain-link fences with matching vinyl-coated cross bars and caps.
2. Barbed or razor wire fences , including any fence with attached barbs, sharp points,
or ra zors.
Fences and Walls
Page 4
3. Electric fences, including any fence designed to produce an electric shock, except
where necessary for animal husbandry operations.
4. Any fence, wall , and/or gate that may cause harm to people, pets, and/or wildlife
due to points, spikes, or sharpened edges on the top or bottom part of the fence, wall
structure, and/or gates.
5. Any perimeter fence, wall, gate, or column where the color reflectivity value
exceeds 50%.
6. Any fence, wall , gate, or column located within a public or private road right-of-
way or pathway easement except for a mailbox column with an approved permit.
e. Fences, Walls, Gates, and Columns Requiring Public Notice. Permit requests for the types
of fences, walls , gates and columns identified below require notification of adjacent
neighbors and neighbors across the street:
(1) Fences, walls , gates and columns that reqmre the removal of existing screerung
vegetation (trees and shrubs).
(2) Solid fences that impact neighbor views as defined by Section 5-9.02 of the View
Ordinance.
(3) Any other proposal deemed appropriate by the Planning Director for a noticed
hearing. Such proposals may include solid fences, as well as walls or vinyl-coated
chain-link fences along any road right-of-way, and fences or walls longer than 1,000
linear feet.
Open fences using natural materials and colors, including unpainted or stained white, brown or
gray wood ; welded or woven wire and wood posts; and natural stone and/or brick construction
are preferred and generally are not subject to public notice.
Staff shall notice a permit hearing and conduct the permit review hearing pursuant to Section 10-
2. l 305(b) except that only adjacent neighbors and neighbors across the street need to be notified.
At or prior to the permit hearing, neighbors and the fence permit applicant shall be provided with
notice that the approval or denial of any permit may be appealed pursuant to Section 10-1.1109.
f. Development Standards for Fences, Walls, Gates, and Columns.
1. Fences and walls located on property lines or in setback areas that are not adjacent to
a road right-of-way shall not exceed a maximum height of 6 feet.
2. Fences and walls located in setback areas that are adjacent to a road right-of-way
shall comply with the standards established in subsections (4) through (9). Height
may be proportionately increased 1 foot for every IO-foot increase in setback, up to a
maximum of 6 feet in height.
Fences and Walls
Page 5
3. Fences, walls, gates, and columns located behind setback lines are not subject to these
development standards .
enterline of
Road
30'
Centerline of Road
Right of Way
30'
(5) Solid Fences, Gates, and Walls
( 4 OPEN FENCES AND GATES
vlinimum setback from centerline of adjacent 30 '
mblic or rivate road ri ht-of-wa .
vlaximum height of open fences and gates at the 4 !12 '
ninimum setback from the centerline of adjacent
mblic or rivate road ri ht-of-wa .
vlinimum setback from centerline of adjacent 45'
mblic or private road right-of-way for 6' tall
)pen fences and gates located between adjacent
mblic or private roadways and the structural
Jetback line for the articular ro ert .
(5) SOLID FENCES , GATES, AND WALLS
Minimum setback from centerline of adjacent
public or private road right-of-way.
Maximum height of solid fences , gates, and walls
at the minimum setback from the centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-way.
Minimum setback from centerline of adjacent
public or private road right-of-way for 6' tall
solid fences, gates , and walls located between
adjacent public or private roadways and the
structural setback line for the particular property.
30 '
3 '
60 '
7' Max Height
(6) Open Driveway Gates
An add~ional 12 inches are allowed
tor a light fixture The total maximum
heigh! for the column & light is 7 feet
(7) Columns
6' Averag e
(6) OPEN DRIVEWAY GATES
Minimum setback from centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-way.
Maximum height of open driveway gates at
the minimum setback from the centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-way.
Minimum setback from centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-way
for open driveway gates with a 6' average
height (7' maximum height) located
between adjacent public or private roadways
and the structural setback line for the
particular property.
(?)COLUMNS
Minimum setback from centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-
way.
Maximum height of columns at the
minimum setback from the centerline of
adjacent public or private road right-of-
way.
Maximum height of columns located
between adjacent public or private road
right-of-way and the structural setback line
for the particular property.
(8) OUTDOOR ATHLETIC COURT FENCING
Maximum height of outdoor athletic court fencing located beyond the 11 O'
structural setback line for the particular property.
(9) OPEN SPACE/CONSERVATION EASEMENT PERIMETER FENCES
Maximum height of open space/conservation easement perimeter 6'
fences .
30'
4 Y2'
(average)
45 '
30'
6 '
7' (w/lights)
6'
7' (w/lights)
Minimum distance of lowest fence strand or rail from ground. 12" above grade
Open space/conservation easement perimeter fences
shall provide openings sufficient to accommodate the
free passage of wildlife through the easement. A split-
rail wood fence (see exhibit) or equivalent design
shall be required. Where a pathway is located within
an open space/conservation easement, the perimeter
Fences and Walls
Page 7
fence shall be required to have at least two openings at least as wide as the width of the pathway
easement.
10. Any fence crossing or intersecting an officially designated wildlife corridor shall conform to
the requirements specified above for an open space/conservation easement perimeter fence.
11. No fence , wall, gate, or column shall be located within a public or private road right-of-way
or pathway easement. A four-foot (4') tall mailbox post or column may be granted an
exception to be located within a road right-of-way. An encroaclunent permit from the
Engineering Department is required to install a mailbox post or column within a road
right-of-way easement. Any existing fence , wall, gate, or column located within any ro ad
right-of-way ma y be required to be removed at the owner's expense.
12 . Solid walls, fences, or gates shall not exceed a maximum height of three (3') feet and all
shrubs and plants shall be pruned to a height not to exceed three (3 ') feet above the road
level at its nearest point in an area bounded by the center line
of intersecting roads or easements for vehicular access, public
or private and a straight line joining points on such center lines
eighty (80') feet distant from their intersection (see exhibit).
All side limbs of trees in such area shall be pruned to a height
of not less than six (6') feet above the road surface. The
purpose of the provisions of this section is to provide an
unobstructed view of approaching traffic on the intersecting
3 Feet High Max roads. The City Engineer may prescribe greater restrictio ns
than the height set forth in this paragraph where unusual
conditions make such additional restrictions desirable in the interests of the public safety.
13. Any fence or wall may be required to be landscaped. Screen plantings required as a
condition of approval for any fence or wall shall be maintained in good condition by the
property owner.
14. The vertical dimension of any fence, wall, gate, or column shall be measured from the
finished grade on both si des of any such fence , wall, gate, or column to any point on top of
the fence, wall, gate , or column, including po st/co lumn caps and any ornamental features.
g. Requirements for Nonconforming Fences , Wall s, Gates, and Columns.
Replacement of ex is ting legal nonconforming fences, walls, gates, and columns shall be subject
to the requirements in this ordinance. Exceptions may be granted pursuant to subsection 10-
1.5 07(h) of this ordinance, or where the strict application of these requirements will resu lt in a
hardship for the property owner. Repair of short sections of legal nonconforming fences , walls,
gates, or columns (repair of less than 50 feet or repair of no greater than 25% of total fence or
wall l ength) will not require a permit if no other work i s done on the same structure over a 12-
month period. The replacem ent of any nonconforming structure shall be prohibited if the City
Engineer determines that a public safety hazard exists or that the structure encroaches in an
easement or public right-of-way. Any fence, wall, gate, or col umn constructed without a
Fences and Walls
Page 8
lawfully issued permit is a violation of the Municipal Code and shall be subject to the provisions
of Title 1, Chapter 2 of the Municipal Code.
h. Exceptions.
Exceptions may be granted subject to a noticed hearing and upon the Site Development
Authority making all of the following findings:
1. The height and design of the proposed fence, wall, gate or column are compatible
with other fences in the neighborhood;
2. The proposed removal of vegetation and trees and disturbance to natural terrain have
been minimized; and
3. The proposed structure is otherwise in compliance with all regulations and policies
set forth in the Municipal Code and the General Plan.
Any fence proposed to exceed a height of 6 feet in a setback area or to be located closer to the
centerline of the road than required shall require a variance in accordance with the provisions of
Article 11 of the Zoning Ordinance.
Zoning
Town of Portola Valley
Planning & Building Department
765 Portola Road
Portola Valley, CA 94028
(650) 851-1700
Fa x: (650) 851-4677
District <1 acre districts
• Domestic fences
permitted on all
property lines
• Domestic fences in
riparian corridors to
Fence be set back 20'
Location from the top of the
creek bank
• Double fencing not
permitted in
setbacks .
• 4' in front yards
• 6' in side and rear
Height yards
• 4' in side yards
along streets
• Fences in front
yards and fences in
50°/o side yards along
Opacity streets
Limit
I
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
FENCE REGULATIONS SUMMARY
Zoning Ordinance 2005-360
1 acre districts 2+ acre districts
Domestic fences to • Domestic fences be set back at least not permitted in 25 ' from the front required yards property line and • Horse fences permitted on al.I permitted on all other property lines property lines Horse fences • Fences not permitted on all permitted on slopes property lines exceeding 20% Fences not Fences in riparian • permitted on slopes corridors to be set exceeding 20% back 20' from the Fences in riparian top of the creek corridors to be set bank back 20' from the • Double fencing not top of the creek permitted in bank setbacks Double fencing not
permitted in
setbacks
4' for all horse
fences
4' in front yards and
6' in side and rear
yards for domestic 4' for all horse fences fences
4' in side yards
along streets
4' when adjacent to
public trails and
oaths
All horse fences
Fences in front
yards All horse fences Fences adjacent to
public trails and
paths
Fences in side yards
along streets
Town of Portola Valley Fence Regulations, Page 2
Opacity, continued:
• Fence members not to exceed a 6" width when viewed perpendicular to the plane of
the fence for fences subject to an opacity limit.
• Retaining walls are exempt from opacity limits.
Color Reflectivity:
.. Fence colors not to exceed 40% reflectivity, except for naturally weathered wood.
Horse Fence Standards:
· • No more than three horizontal wood members, each not to exceed 6" in width or no
more than four horizontal wood or wire members, each wood member not to exceed
4.5" in width.
• The cross sections of posts must not exceed 6" x 6"; such posts not to exceed 4' in
height and generally spaced no closer than 5' apart.
• 6" x 6" wire mesh may be attached to a horse fence but shall not exceed the height
of the horse fence .
• Opacity not to exceed 50%.
• Height not to exceed 4'.
• Gates attached to horse fences must conform to the height and opacity standards
for horse fences and be of a similar design.
Entryway Features: Entryway features, including gates, must be setback one-half of
the required front yard in districts requiring a minimum parcel area of 1 acre or more .
Permits and ASCC Review: Permits will be required for most fences. Permits will not
be required when a fence is no more than 2 feet in height and 20 feet in total length.
Staff to review and act on most applications. ASCC to review applications and existing
fences when:
(1) Referred from town planning staff;
(2) A property undergoes ASCC review and there is a substantial modification to an
existing residence or site improvements of the property;
(3) The proposed fence cannot conform to the regulations given the conditions on the
parcel; or,
(4) The fence will be located in the M-R or 0-A districts. Specific requirements for these
districts will be determined on a case-by-case basis with input from the Conservation
Committee.
Repairs or Replacement to an Existing Fence: When a portion of a fence
exceeding twenty five percent of the total length of fencing within required yards is
damaged or voluntarily removed, any replacement fencing of that portion shall conform
to the fence regulations pursuant to a fence permit.
ORDINANCE NO. 2005-360
ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PORTOLA VALLEY
AMENDING TITLE 18 [ZONING] OF THE PORTOLA VALLEY MUNICIPAL CODE
BY AMENDING CHAPTERS 18.04 [DEFINITIONS] AND SECTION 18.42.040
[EXCEPTIONS TO REQUIREMENTS -FENCES AND WALLS] OF CHAPTER 18.42
[ACCESSORY STRUCTURES], ADDING CHAPTER 18.43 [FENCES] AND
REPEALING SECTION 18.54.020.C. [MEASUREMENT OF HEIGHT]
WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Portola Valley wishes to revise its
Zoning Ordinance to include new provision !? for fences .
NOW, THEREFORE, the Town Council of the Town of Portola Valley ("Town")
does ORDAIN as follows:
1. Amendment of Code. Chapter 18.04 [Definitions) of Title 18 [Zoning] of
the Town 's Municipal Code is hereby amended to add the following Sections:
18.04.075 Building envelope. "Building envelope" is the three-dimensional
space on a parcel within which buildings and most other structures are required to be
confined and which is defined by zoning ordinance regulations governing building
setbacks and building heights.
18.04.129 Domestic fence. "Domestic fence " is a fence that is not a horse
fence as defined in Section 18.04 .215.
18.04.155 Fence. "Fence" is a structure made of wire , wood, metal , masonry
or other man-made material, or combination thereof, including gates and posts , typically
used as a screen , enclosure, retaining wall , or entryway feature , for a parcel of land or
portion thereof.
18.04.156 Fence opacity. "Fence opacity" is the surface area of a fence that
is impenetrable to light when viewed perpendicularly to the plane of the fence .
18.04.215 Horse fence. "Horse fence " is a fence that complies with the horse
fence standards set forth in Section 18.43.060.
18.04.555 Yard, required. "Required yard" means an open space requi red by
Subsections 18 .52.010 A., B . or C. located between a parcel line and a building
envelope .
1 N:IData\Cl ients\P\Pv\Ord\FenceOrd .doc
2 . Amendment of Code. Section 18.42.040 [Exceptions to Requirements -
Fences and walls.] of Chapter 18.42 [Accessory Structures] of Title 18 [Zoning] of the
Town of Portola Valley Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows :
18.42.040 Exceptions to Requirements -Fences. Fences may be located
within required yard areas subject to the provisions set forth in Chapter 18.43.
3. Addition to Code. Chapter 18.43 [Fences] is hereby added to Title 18
[Zoning] of the Town of Portola Valley Municipal Code to read as follows:
Sections:
18.43.010
18.43.020
18 .43.030
18.43.040
18.43.050
18.43.060
18.43.070
18.43.080
Purpose.
Location .
Height.
Fence opacity.
CHAPTER 18.43
FENCES
Color reflectivity and size.
Horse fences.
Entryway features.
Fence permits and administration.
18.43.010 Purpose. The purpose of the fence regulations is to ensure that
fences in required yards in residential zoning districts conform to the following
principles :
• Fences should be designed with consideration for the open space tradition
of Portola Valley.
• Fences should be used sparingly in order to preserve a sense of the
shared scenic resources of the community .
• Fences should be designed with respect for the movement of wildlife and
the protection of views.
• Fence designs and materials should blend with the natural environment
and maintain the natural and rural ambiance of the Town .
The above principles shall be followed by residents, Town Planning staff and the
ASCC when designing or developing fences or considering fence permit applications .
18.43.020 Location.
A. In residential zoning districts fences may be erected in the following
locations :
1. In districts requmng a minimum parcel area of less than one acre,
domestic fences or fences consistent with the standards of a horse fence are allowed in
required yards, including along property lines.
2 N:\Data\Clients\P\Pv\Ord \F enceOrct .doc
2. In districts requiring a m inimum parcel area of one acre , domestic fences
or horse fences are allowed in required yards, including along property lines , except that
a domestic fence in a front yard must be set back at least twenty five feet from the front
property line .
3. In districts requiring a minimum parcel area of two acres or more, only
horse fences are allowed in required yards, including along property lines.
4. In addition to the above lim itations , in districts requiring a minimum parcel
area of one acre or more , domestic fences and horse fences in required yards shall be
allowed only on slopes of twenty percent or less .
5. Along riparian corridors , fences shall be set back a minimum of twenty feet
from the top of a creek bank . The top of the creek bank shall be determined on a case-
by-case basis by Town P:dnning staff or the ASCC based on physical inspection of site
conditions.
6. Double fencing (where two or more fences are placed parallel to one
another often for the purpose of deterring deer or other animals) must be located within
the building envelope of a parcel.
18.43 .030 Height.
A. The height of a fence is the vertical distance measured from the surface of
the actual adjoining ground to the top of the fence. For the purpose of applying height
regulations , the average he ight of the fence along any unbroken run may be used,
provided the height at any point is not more than ten percent greater than that normally
permitted .
B. Fences in residential zoning districts are subject to the following height
lim its:
1. Fence heights shall not exceed four feet in front yards , six feet in side and
rear yards , and four feet in side yards along road rights-of-way.
2. Horse fences shall not exceed four feet in height.
3. Fences adjacent to public trails and paths in ·districts requiring a minimum
parcel area of one acre or more shall not exceed four feet in he igh t.
C . A fence of normally permitted height under this section shall not be placed
on top of fill designed so as to effectively increase the elevation of the top of the fence.
D. The heigh t of a retaining wall , or a retaining wall with a fence erected on
top of it, is measured from the exposed bottom of the wall to the top of the wall/fence.
3 N:\Data\Clients\P\Pv\Ord\FenceOrd.d oc
E. The height of a fence placed on top of a fill supported by a reta ining wall is
measured from the top of the natural grade directly below the wall to the top of the
fence .
18.43.040 Opacity.
A. Fences are subject to the following fence opacity limits:
1. In districts requiring a minimum parcel area of less than one acre, fences
in front yards shall not exceed fifty percent opacity.
2. In districts requiring a minimum parcel area of one acre , domestic fences
in front yards shall not exceed fifty percent opacity.
3. Fenc~s in side yards adjacent to road rights-of-way shall not exce:ed fifty
percent opacity.
4. Horse fences shall not exceed fifty percent opacity .
5. Fences adjacent to public trails and paths in districts requiring a minimum
parcel area of one acre or more shall not exceed fifty percent opacity .
6 . Fence members shall not exceed a si x inch width when viewed
perpendicularly to the plane of the fence for fences subject to an opacity limit.
7. Retaining walls are exempt from opacity limits.
18.43.050 Color reflectivity.
A. The reflectivity value for colors used on fences shall not exceed forty
percent, except that naturally weathered wood may exceed such limit.
18.43.060 Horse fences.
A. Horse fences shall conform to the following standards:
1. There shall be no more than three horizontal wood members, each not to
exceed six inches in width or no more than four horizontal wood or wire members, each
wood member not to exceed four and a half inches in width.
2 . The cross sections of posts must not exceed six inches by six inches;
such posts shall not exceed four feet in height and shall be spaced no closer than five
feet apart.
4 N:\Data\Clients\PIPv\Ord\FenceOrd .doc
3. Six inch by six inch wire mesh may be attached to a horse fence but shall
not exceed the height of the horse fence . Nothing else shall be attached to a horse
fence that would violate the standards set forth in Section 18.43.060A and/or alter the
visual characteristics of the horse fence .
4. Horse fence opacity shall not exceed fifty percent. See Section
18.43.040A4.
5. Horse fences shall not exceed four feet in height. See Section
18.43.03082.
B. Gates attached to horse fences are exempted from Section 18 .43 .060 .A1-
3, but shall conform to height and opacity standards for horse fences and be of a similar
design as a ho rse fence .
C . Horse fences that are also used as corral and pasture fences , must, in
addition , comply with special requirements as set forth in the Town stable ordinance
(Ord . 1988-242 Section 2 (Ex. A) (part), 1988 ; Ord . 1967-80 Section 1 (6207.4), 1967;
Ord . 2001-338 Section 3 (part), 2001).
18.43.070 Entryway features. Entryway features, including gates, must
adhere to the setback requirements set forth in Section 18.42.016.
18.43.080 Fence permits and administration.
A. Fence permits are required for construction of all fences built within
required yards, except as otherwise specified in this section . Fence permit applications
shall be made on a form provided by the Town Planning staff and shall be accompanied
by plans demonstrating the design and materials of the proposed fence , the location of
the proposed fence and any associated landscaping. A fee shall be paid to cover the
cost of review by Town Planning staff, or on referral, by the Town Planner. Prior to
approving a fence permit, Town Planning staff shall give written notice to owners of
adjoining properties of the permit application. Prior to acting on a permit, Town Planning
staff shall review the proposed design and location in the field , review the plans for
conformance with the zoning ordinance and Design Guidelines , and consider comments
from owner(s) of adjoining properties . Town Planning staff may take action on a permit
or refer it to the ASCC. Written notification shall be given to owner(s) of adjoining
properties at least six days prior to action by Town Planning staff or the ASCC. Any
Town Planning staff decision may be appealed by an applicant or an owner of adjacent
property to the ASCC. Any ASCC decision may be appealed by the applicant or an
owner of adjacent property to the Board of Adjustment.
B. Fences within required yards that are no more than two feet in height, and
no more than twenty feet in total length shall be exempt from this section but shall meet
all other provisions of this chapter except Section 18.43 .040 regarding Opacity .
5 N:\Datal Clientsl P\Pv\Ord \FenceOrd .doc
C . The ASCC shall have the authority to review existing fences and fence
permit applications under the following conditions :
1. Upon referral from Town Planning staff, pursuant to Section 18.43 .080.A.
2. When acting on architectural review and site development permits, the
ASCC shall consider and may require modifications to existing fencing on a property if
the ASCC determines that there is a substantial mod ification to an existing residence or
the site improvements of the property . If, in these situations, the ASCC determines that
the existing fencing is not in conformity with current fencing standards, the ASCC may
require conformity w ith the fencing regulations. In requiring conformity, the ASCC shall
make the finding that the modified or replacement fencing will not result in an adverse
effect on neighboring properties and reasonably adheres to the purposes of this
chapter.
3. When a fence permit application demonstrates that the proposed fence
cannot conform to the regulations given the conditions on the parcel, the ASCC may
grant relief from the fence regulations. In making such determination, the ASCC shall as
much as reasonably possible ensure the proposed fence achieves the purpose and
principles of this chapter set forth in Section 18.43.010.
4 . When a fence permit application is submitted for a proposed fence in the
Mountainous-Residential (M-R) or Open-Area (0-A) zoning districts , the ASCC shall ,
with input from the Conservation Committee, make a determination of compliance
based on the purposes of this chapter and the Fence Design Guidelines adopted by the
Town Council.
D. When a portion of a fence exceeding twenty five percent of the total length
of fencing within required yards on a property is damaged or voluntarily removed , any
replacement fencing of that portion shall conform to the fence regulations pursuant to a
fence permit.
4 . Amendment of Code. Subsection C . of Section 18.54.020 [Measurement
of height] of Chapter 18.54 [Building Bulk] of Title 18 [Zoning] of the Town of Portola
Valley Municipal Code is hereby amended to read as follows :
C. Fence height measurement is subject to the provisions set forth in Section
18.43.030.A.
5. Repeal of Code . Subsections A and B ection 18.42.040 [Exceptions
to Requirements -Fences and walls] of Chapter 1 .42 [Accessory Structures] of Title
18 [Zoning] of the Portola Valley Municipal Cod ~is hereby repealed .
/
/
6. Repeal of Code . Subsecti9r( C of Section 18.54.020 [Measurement of
height] of Chapter 18.54 [Building B!Jfl<] of TitlE( J,8 [Zoning] of the Portola Valley
Municipal Code is hereby repealed.// .1. ,~-
/ \ N-' V'-/
-6l \)JpS' tJ ~ ·~
N .\DatalClients\P\Pv\Ord\FenceOrd .doc
7 . Environmental Review. This Ordinance is categorically exempt (Class 3)
under the California Environmental Quality Act.
8. Severability. If any part of this Ordinance is held to be invalid or
inapplicable to any situation by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not
affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance or the applicability of this
ordinance to other situations.
9. Effective Date; Posting . This ordinance shall become effective thirty (30)
days after the date of its adoption and shall be posted within the Town of Portola Valley
in three (3) public places.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES :
NOES:
ABSTENTIONS:
ABSENT:
October 26 , 2005
Novenber 9, 2005
Mayor Davis, Vice Mayor Toben, Council.member Driscc;>ll,
Councilmernber Canstcx::k and Councilmernber Merk
None
None
None
By:
Mayor
ATTEST APPROVED AS TO FORM:
7 N:IData \C lien ts\P IP v\Ord \FenceOrd .doc
Woodside, CA Code of Ordinances
§ 153.051 FENCES, WALLS, GATES, PYLONS, AND B ERMS.
(A) P ermits r eq uired.
(1) No fence or wall shall be erected without the prior issuance of a permit from the Town. ('75 Code, § 9-2.207)
(2) A building permit and/or a fence permit shall be required for all fences, walls, gates, pylons , and bem1s. All vehicular gates
and entry features require review by the Architectural and Site Review Administrator.
(B) Residential zoning districts. The following regulations and des ign guidelines were created to preserve the beauty and rural
quality of the Town and ensure the safety of all residents . Open fencing and gates are strongly encouraged to maintain the rural
atmosphere of the Town. In all re sidential and open s pace zones the following regulations and de sign standards shall apply to all
fences , walls, gates, pylons , and berms.
(1) Open fences , which meet all of the provisions of divisions (4) through (13) below, may be approved by the Planning Director,
without review by the Architectural and Site Review Administrator.
(2) Fences and walls located greater than 50 feet (30 feet in the R-1 zone) from the right-of-way of adjacent roadways and
which meet all of the provisions of divisions (4) through (13) be low, may be approved by the Planning Director unless an adjacent
property owner requests review by the Architectural and Site Review Administrator. At least ten da ys prior to the decision, notic e of
the pending decision shall be provided to any owner of property adjacent to the proposed fence, including lots located across an
abutting public or private roadway.
(3) All other fences, walls , gates, and berms which meet the provisions of divisions ( 4) through ( 13 ) be low may be approved by
the Architectural and Site Review Administrator. Exceptions to the standards set forth in this section may be granted by the
Architectural and Site Review Administrator upon a finding that s uch fence , wall, gate, pylon, or berm would be consistent with the
rural character of Woodside and with the existing fencing of the s ubject lot and neighboring properties . No exception may be granted,
however, which allows a fence , wall, or berm to exceed six feet in height.
(4) The design of all fences , walls, gates, pylons , and berms shall be rural in character and shall emphasize the use of natural
materials and colors. Open fencing is highly preferred. Open gates are required. Unpainted or stained white, brown or gray wood;
welded or woven wire and wood posts; natural stone and/or bri ck construction are preferred. Chain link fencing, except for athletic
s port fencing, is not permitted within 50 feet of the right-of-way of an adjacent roadwa y, unless specifically approved by the
Architectural and Site Review Administrator.
(5) (a) All fences, walls , gates, and py lons shall meet the standards in the following chart. The maximum overall height limit for
fencing and gates is six feet, except athletic court fencing, which may be 12 feet in height. Fences, walls, gates, and pylons may not
be located in the public or private right-of-way or within any trail easement or other easement precluding their construction.
Minimum setback from Minimum setback from
Fencing Style edge of adjacent driving edge of adjacent driving
surf ace (public) surface (private)
Open fences, less than 4 10 feet 5 feet feet tall
Open fences , between 4 20 feet 10 feet feet and 6 feet tal 1
Solid fences and walls, 10 feet 5 feet less than 4 feet tall
Solid fences and walls, 50 feet (30 feet in R-1 50 feet (30 feet in R-1 between 4 feet and 6 feet
tall zoning) zoning)
Vehicular gates 25 feet, with gates in the 25 feet, with gates in the
open position open position
Athletic court fencing, 50 feet 50 feet where allowed
(b) BERMS. Berms shall vary in height and width to create a natural appearance , consistent with surrounding natural
contours, and must be pla nted with native drought tolerant plants. The top of the berm s hall s lope gradually to approximate natural
s lope s and to accommodate planting of vegetation. The s lope of the berm must not exceed tw o fee t horiz.onta l to one foot vertical and
fills in excess of three feet require certification of design by a civil engineer.
(6) Notwithstanding the standard set forth above, a ll fences, walls , gates, py lons or berms shall be located to accommodate
existing equestrian trail usage such that a minimum of 15 feet of usable trail width remains , unJe ss the Trails Committee concurs that a
lesser width is adequate for safe equestrian movement.
(7) The vertical dimension of any fence or wall shall be meas ured from the average e levation of the finished lot grade on both
s ides of any such fence or wall. The maximum height at any point on a ste pped fence shall not exceed the limit a tions contained in this
section.
(8) Screen plantings required as a condition of approval for any fence or wall shall be maintained by the property owner in good
condition.
(9) Corral and pasture fences s hall not be le ss than four feet in height, unJe ss other requirements are prescribed by Chapter 115
of this Code, relating to s ta ble s , or any other Town law applicable to the keeping of livestock, in which case s uch other height
requirements s hall prevail.
(10) No fence , wal~ gate, pylon or berm s hall be permitted where, in the opinion of the Town Engineer, the additional height
would obstruct the sight distance or create a potential public safety hazard. Additionally, the Town Engineer may req uire that fence s,
walls , gates , pylons , or berms erected or planted prior to the effective date of this chapter be reduced in height or removed where the
Town Engineer determines that a public safety hazard exists.
( 11) No fence , wal~ gate , pylon , or berm s hall be constructed within a s tream corridor, as defined in § 153.206 , unless the Town
Engineer finds that s uch fencing will not impede drainage flow and the P lanning Director fmds that adequate provision is made for the
pa ssage of wildlife .
(12) (a) Fences, ga te s, pylons , and berms s hall not be constructed within any public right-of-way. Retaining walls ma y be
constructed in a public right-of-way only if each of the following three condition s are met:
I . The wall is necessary for the construction and maintenance of the road, trails , paths, drainage , or public utilities , or the
entire wall will be located below the driving surface of the adjacent roadway, or the wall is necessary for s lope sta bility or to access a
property; and
2. The Town Engineer fmds that the wall will not negatively impact the safety and functionality of the ri ght-of-way,
recognizing that the purpose of the public right-of-way is for both travel and for utilities; and
3. Prior to issuance of a permit for the requested improvement, an encroachment agreement shall be recorded. The
agreement s hall contain language requiring th e property owner benefiting from the improvement to indemnify a nd defend the Town
from any claim that may arise in connection with the encroachment. The agreement shall also include language that authorize s the
Town to require removal of the improve ment at the benefiting property owner's sole cost and expense.
(b) Fences, walls and berms shall not be constructed within any private road right-of-way. Gates, py lons, a nd appurtenances ,
that run from such gates and pylons to the edge of private right-of-way , may be constructed in a private right-of-way provided a use
permit is granted by the Planning Commission according to§§ 153.245 through 153.255, and provided the following fmdings are made
(in addition to the fmdin gs required by § 153.251):
I . The private road right-of-way is not a through road;
2. The private road right-of-way does not serve more than ten residentia l lots;
3. An adequate turnaround will be provided ;
4. The gate and/or gate appurtenances will not constitute a traffic safety ha zard;
5. The private road right-of-way is privately owned by property owners adjacent to it,
6. All property owners who have the right to use the private road right-of-way have given their written consent to the use
permit application ;
7. Access will be provided for emergency vehicles ;
8. The proposed gate and its appurtenances confonn to applicable Town codes;
9. Maintenance of the gate and its appurtenances is provided for in a road maintenance agreement executed and recorded by
all property owners who have joined in the use pe rmit application ; and
10. The gate apparatus will be operable from vehicles by handic apped persons.
(13) Notwithstanding other provisions of this c hapter, replacement of existing fences or walls s hall be pennitted if the
replacement is of a like materia~ no greater in height, and no close r to adjacent property line s than the existing fence or waR or if
replaced by an "open" fence meeting all of the provisions of this section, except that replacement with chain link fencing is subject to
all provisions of this section. Repair of s hort sections (le ss than 100 feet, not to exceed 50% of that segment of fencing over a 12-
month period) of existing fences and walls does not require a permit. Replacement of existing gates , py lons , and benns s hall require a
fence and/or building permit and are subject to all review provisions of this section, as are fences and walls which are replaced other
than as specified above . Replacement of any of the above , however, sha ll be prohibited if the Town Engineer determines that a public
s afety hazard exists.
('75 Code, § 9-2.208)
(C) Community Commercial Distric t. In the CC District fence s and walls exceedin g six feet in height shall be regarded as
structures and s hall not be erected without fir s t obtaining the approval of the Planning Director and the issuance of a building pennit
from the Town.
('75 Code, § 9-2.209)
(Ord. 1980-29 1, e ffective 9-11-80; Am. Ord. 1986-334, effective 5-8-86 ; Am. Ord. 1989-391 , effective 9-14-89; Am . Ord. 1992-454,
effective 3-13-92; Am. Ord. 1999-494, effective 3-25-99; Am. Ord. 2006-530, effective 6-8 -06; Am. Ord. 2012-554, effective 8-23-
12 ; Am. Ord. 2015-569, effective 1-7-16)
TOWN CODE AND DOCUMENT REFERENCES TO
OPEN AND WILDLIFE FRIENDLY FENCING
To wn o f Woodside
2955 Woodside Road
Woodside, California 94062
650 851.6790
www.wood sidetown.o rg
2012 General Plan:
General Plan Strategy OSl.l.b: During the review of development proposals, ensure that impacts are
minimized by: (1) Ensuring that fencing is wildlife friendly and that it does not impact or impede wildlife
corridors.
General Plan Strategy OSl.2.1 : Give special attention to preserving, protecting and enhancing wildlife
corridors in the review of all applications for development, with special attention to riparian corridors and
physically linking open spaces to form a network of open space .
General Plan Strategy CVl.3.4: Avoid impacts to habitat the wildlife corridors. Structures and fences should be
sited to avoid fragmentation of habitat areas, obstructions to linear corridors, and other adverse impacts .
General Plan Strategy CVl.9.d: Promote and encourage individual initiative by local residents and property
owners to carry out specific efforts for the protection of the environment, such as: use of wildlife friendly
fencing .
Woodside Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance :
WMC, Section 153.051.8 (Fences): Open fencing and gates are strongly encouraged to maintain the rural
atmosphere of the Town.
WMC, Section 153.051.8. 11 (Fences): No fence, wall gate, pylon, or berm shall be constructed within a stream
corridor, as defined in Section 153.206, unless the Town Engineer finds that such fencing will not impede
drainage flow and the Planning Director finds that adequate provi sion is made for the passage of wildlife .
WMC, Section 153.051, Section 4, Landscape Elements, Fences (Design Review Evaluation Criteria): Whether
the fencing is open in design and compatible with the rural character of Woodside.
Residential Design Guidelines:
Residential Design Guidelines, Landscape Elements, Fences, 3.d (Design): Open De sign: Fencing should be
visually open . Fencing that allows for wildlife migration, such as open rail, is preferred fencing that is visually
open, such as wood posts and welded wire is encouraged is wildlife friendly fencing is not fea sible.
Residential Design Guidelines, Landscape Elements, Fences, 3.e (Perimeter Fencing): Limit the u se of
perimeter fencing (fencing along property lines). Perimeter fencing , if used, should be low in height and
wildlife friendly, such as open rail.
Rev. 0 3-08-16
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INTRODUCTION
Fences & En t ry Features is an excerpt of the Town of Woodside's Residential Design Guidelines, adopted July 10, 2012.
Th e goals of this document is to advise homeowners and designers about ways to locate and d es ign fences and e ntry features that ma intain the chara cter of the
community an d the natural setting.
Woodside Municipal Co d e Sect ion 153.051, Fe nces, Wa ll s, Gat es, Pylon s, and Berms, describes the quantitative development sta ndard s and permitting processes fo r
fence s and entry featu res; wh ile this publication guides the qualitative aspects : sit ing, intensity, design, sca le, and protection of w ildlife corridors .
This pub lication provides design guidelines and visua l examp les. The specific development standards forfences and entry features are contained in Woods ide Municipal
Code Sect ion 153 .051.
Th e Woodside community see ks to balance the q uantitative and qual itative aspects of development in a way w hi ch acknowledges that protec tion of the natural
environment is paramount.
As with Town architectural sty le, the design of fence s and entry feature s should strive for si mplic ity, re stra in the use of excessive detail, and be compatible w ith the
Town 's rural vernac ular.
r e n C e I J
FENCES
Fencing shall be open in design and compatible with the rural character o f Woodside (ref. WMC 153.051 ).
Woodside's rural charact er includes views of oak wood lands, mixed eve rg ree n fore st s, meadows, the Western Hills , and the valley floor. The location and design of
fencing is critical in ma intaining these views. Fen ces also impact properties as seen from public roadways. Low, open d esi gn fen ces cont ri bute to t he r ura l experience
of Woods ide.
2 r e n c e 1
a. Minimize fen cing
Minimize fen cing to the greatest extent possible.
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4 r e n c e 1
c. Natural feature protection
i. Locate fencing outs ide of stream corridor
setbacks, riparian areas, and any known wildlife
habitats and migratory corridors (ref. GPOSl.2).
ii. Locate fencing to avoid impacts to trees and
other natural features (ref. WM( 153.170).
r e n c e 1 3
b. Fence siting
Locate fencing at lea st the required setback from
the road and blend it into the existing landscape
(ref. WM( 153.051). Avoid creating fen ced "tunnels':
particularly along equestrian trail s.
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r e ~ c e s 5
d. Design
Open design: Fencing sho uld be visually open.
Fencing t hat allows for w ildlife migration, such as
open rail, is preferred. Fencing that is v isua lly open,
such as wood posts and welded w i re is encouraged
if wildlif e friendl y fencing 1 is not feas i ble.
Fence materials : Rural styles, those that emphasize
the use of natural materials such as wood, wood
posts and welded wire , natural stone or brick, and
w hich utilize natural colors, such as brown, grey,
or green, are strong ly encouraged. Other type s of
fenc ing, suc h as cha in lin k, stucco, brick, and so lid
wa lls are strongly discouraged.
Split 3 rail
--··-~
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8 r e n c e 1
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e. Perimeter fencing
Limit the use of perimeter fenc ing (fenci ng along
property lines). Perimeter fencing, if used, should be
low in height and wi ldlife friendly, such as open rail
(ref. GPOSl.2}.
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g. Deer fencing
The use of enclosu re fencing. visua lly open but
not wi ldlife friend ly, may be conside red fo r p lant
c ultivatio n. Th is typ e of fencin g sho uld be limited
to the area with in the b uilding setback envel ope.
Deer fencing around vin eyards, orchards, and other
agricu ltural uses may be appropriate outside of the
bu i ld ing set back area (ref. WMC 753.051).
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f. Enclosure fencing
i. Locate security and garden enclosure fenc ing
away from the property lines and minimize its
visibility.
ii. Sc reen sport co urts fro m publi c v iew using
landscape screen i ng and/or fencing that blends
with the natural color palette. Sport courts
shou ld be enclosed with wood and wire fencing ,
not chain l ink. Sport courts may be screened
from pu blic view with landscaping.
... -~· .,, ·, ,,,,. ... -.. ,.) ..
·" _ ..... ,.
. f .~
12 (n t rr re at u re1
ENTRY FEATURES
The design of entry features shall be simple, modest, and
understated.
a. Siting
Lo cate entry features awa y from the road , and
integrate them into the existing landscape . Locate
gates and other entry feature s farther away from th e
road to redu ce vis ibility (ref. WMC 753.051).
__.,.-,,..._ ·----~ "--" ..
,,
, ... -..... --'
' .,
r 1 n c e 1 11
h. Livestock fencing
Livestock re lated facilities , within a portion of a
property, lend themse lves to the use of fencing that
is simple, understated, and constructed of natural
materials (ref. WMC 753.05 1).
' . ) '\.. '-'
' (
., . \ . I
,-_,
... .....
14 r e n c e ~
:; (J
"\ '
c. Landscape screening
. ~1 .. --
Gate mechanical hidden
l>y landscaping.
Sc reen mec hanic al and utility equipment by usi ng
natural groupings of native p lantings . Screeni ng
is particularl y important for up-sloping driveways
where the view from the road ha s greater vis ual
prominence (ref WMC 153.051 & WMC 156.050.B.3).
''\ ~ r •
-~
'
.(
I ·~
r e n c e s 13
b. Design
Design gates, pylons, and attached fencing as follows: (ref WMC 153.051)
i. Gates and wing walls should be open in appearan ce.
ii. Rural styles, those w h ich emphasize t he use of natural materials such as
wood, wood posts and welded wire, natural stone or brick , and utilize natura l
co lors are stro ngly encouraged. Stucco and solid walls are discouraged.
iii. Rural design sho uld take precedence over elaborate entry features of a
particular architectura l sty le.
iv. Py lons and wi ng walls should prov ide an unobtrusive transition between the
adjacent fencing and the ga t e .
v. Lo cate gate operati ng mecha n isms to the inside of gates, whenever feasible.
f 'f \~
' M ~ '~It .:-·-· 5-':? .. ~f.~'" ·~i~[t,,~ .. ~~~~ ,··~ .. ~·"~.. '°1\,7~ .. '';/.· ,...._:. ... f~~~-)~·;-X.: , . ,_, / --~ -,., .. , .. ,, , ~---····-,, "'... -
" !;-,._ • "v'' , · .,. " I I!' · · ·· L i-, ;-,.~, ,-.... ,_ ... ,J , . ,.. • ,,.,, '!Y ., • . .,,,, '' . . ,, II.. . ' -"'-"• . ' ' ' ·'· " ' '
Al ~~~ · .'#.., ;a '-.,, 1 ~n·1 ... ~ ~. '.f ~~~~ ~"-• ''l-~., .. ._,.,~,.. . Ii"'"'. m ~.-. .f • , _,. ~·. ~· • ···:.:,_ ....... ..\.. •• ·-"' . . , , '< •.• • ·......,... . ... ....__('< .. .., \,,., ''"-'
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' . .. .. ,, -· ·-·~-" -,~,,,. '" -J.,..,,...,>f:-· ·''· ,, -!'o·.:... . .o..-""~·~ . " -.;;,";, -~t.~l;J.: ·~···, . 1··~-...... . . . ""-1' --.,.,_ -·-'<>"';"..\, ' /I., . •I ·.1 , ~ • I "
• •, ·, 11 I • ~
16 foo tnotes
foo tn o t es 15
1. WILDLIFE FRIENDLY FENC I NG DESIGNS :
Numerous citings in the Woodside General Plan and Municipal Code
encourage wildlife friendly fencing. Some ways to accomplish this i nclude:
a. Li miting fence height to 4 feet {which is low enough for
deer & fawns to jump);
b . Creati ng breaks in fenci ng; and,
c. Creating periodic openings at the bottom of wood mesh fences, or
insta lling subterranean, sma ll diameter culverts {i.e., 6" minimum)
w h ich allow small wildlife to pass .
Open Fences
So li d Fences***
Wa lls***
(lnclud1ng retain,ng walls)
Entry Featu res
(gates m ust be 40% open)
Athletic Court Fence s
Height
4 feet or under
4+ feet to 6 feet
4 feet or unde r
4+ feet to 6 feet
4 feet or under
4+ feet to 6 feet
Gates 6 fee t maximum
12 feet maximum
Minimum Setbacks from Driving Surface of Road
Public Road I Private Road
10 feet
20 feet
10 feet
so feet (30 feet in R-1 Zone)
10 feet
50 feet (30 feet in R-1 Zone)
25 feet
{plus lengt h of gate if gates sw ing outward)
Front
{or property line that is adjacent to a road)·
SO feet
Side /Rear: 1 S 'eet
s feet
10 feet
s feet
SO feet (30 feet 1n R-1 Zone)
5 feet
50 feet (30 feet in R-1 Zone)
25 feet
(p lus length of gate if gates swing outward)
Front
(or property line that is adjacent to a road).
50 feet
Side /Rear: 1 S feet
ASRA Review Required **
x
x
x
All fences. walls. gates. pylons. and berms must be locate d on private property exce pt as allowed perWMC 153.051.B l 12. and sha ll not be allowed w ithin any tra il easemen t or other easement
precluding their construction
Pursuant to WMC 1 S3 221 (B}. the Tow n may send a project to ASRA or ASRB upon its judgment that the project may have a significant effect upon the aesthetic or funcnonal character of the Town
•·• Solid fences and walls located greater than SO feet (30 feet in the R-1 zone} from the right-of-way of adjacent roadways: Ad jacent neighbors. including across the adjacen t roadways, will be notified
and will have 10 days to request ASRA review.
Sea n Mullin
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
(
Nancy Reyering <nanzo@me.com >
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 12:08 PM
Joel Paulson
Sean Mullin; David Weissman
(
Public comment t o PC meeting 7 /2 5: Code Amendment A -17 -002
Dear Los Gatos Planning Commission :
I am writing to voice my strong support for code amendments that will preserve wildlife habitats,
protect migration corridors, support the General Plan policies , and generally limit the impact of
fences , walls , and gates.
Residents and wildlife will benefit by the direction given in clearly worded code amendments that limit
the location and types of fencing to allow greater freedom of movement for wildlife. Our local fauna
need to traverse both open space and private properties to find safety, forage , and mates with
sufficient DNA variation to ensure survival of species .
The work of both staff and residents is to be applauded , as existing town codes do not sufficiently
regulate fencing and other impediments to wildlife.
Thank you for your careful consideration of this very important issue .
Best regards,
Nancy Reyering
Board Member, Committee for Green Foothills
1
lEXHJBIT 1 0
Sean Mullin
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Follow Up Flag:
Flag Status:
David Weissman <gryllus@gmail.com >
Thursday, July 27 , 2017 11:37 AM
Joel Paulson; Sean Mullin; Lee Quintana
Lyme Disease
Follow up
Flagged
Almost on command, KQED has this article on today's website. Please pass this along to the Planning
Commission.
https ://ww2.kged.org/s cience/2017 /07/27/lyme-di sease-in-califomia-sorting-fac t-from-m yth/
Dave Weissman
15431 Francis Oaks Way
Los Gatos, CA 95032
H: (408) 358-3556
gryllus @ gmail.com
1
KQED Science
NEWS fHUPS://WW2.KOEQ.ORG/SC!ENCE/CAJEGORYINEWS/l
Lyme Disease in California? It's Here and It's Complicated.
Lyme-infected western blacklegged ticks have been found in 42 out of California's 58 counties. (Ervk Aquino)
By Anna Kusmer fbttps:l/ww2.kqed.org/sdence/autbor/akusmer/l W lhUp:Utwittcr.com/askusmer)
JULY 27, 2017
Northern California has many attractions, but the fact that it's prime tick habitat isn't one of them.
Adding to the angst surrounding outdoor activities is that tick hotspots are unevenly distributed on a patchy landscape. One moment
you're strolling through redwood forests , the next through oak forests, and a couple of hours later you may come across scenic
chaparral. While on this iconic hike, you probably don't realize that you've moved through both high-and low-risk Lyme disease areas.
The question is , do you know where you are most at risk?
The answer is in the oak forest where layers of rich leaf litter are a kind of Club Med for ticks.
It's Always Tick Season
"Tick season" exists year-round in northern California. The highest risk is in the spring and early summer due to an abundance of
juvenile ticks, known as nymphs (the most virule nt life -stage). However, peak diagnosis time extends into July, because it can take a
few weeks to realize that you have the disease.
It 's ~!ways tick season in Northern California. PHk suson is spring and early summer. (~y Area Lyme Foundation)
Summer is also particularly dangerous for Lyme disease because that's when people spend the most time outside, and many of the
most beautiful hiking areas tend to be tick-ridden.
Most people associate Lyme disease with the Northeastern U.S. and the upper Midwest, and for ~od reason
Q>ttps:/fwww.cdc.~oyllyme/stats/maps.html); the vast majority of cases are reported there, due mostly to the fact that the landscape is
blanketed with prime tick habitat. On the west coast, the risk is real, but it's different.
"There are definitely patches in California where the risk is just as high as the East -it's just not the same spatial extent," says Dan
Salkeld, research scientist at Colorado State University.
The overall abundance of Lyme ticks is relatively low on the West Coast; however, the risk is spread unevenly. Hikers can move from
high-risk area to a low-risk area and never know it.
'Medicine has the tendency to want a vaccine or a clear antibiotic silver bullet, and I don't think the Lyme
system gives us that luxury.'
-Nate Nieto, University of Northern Arizona
In California, "You can be in one valley and rates of Lyme can be as high as in upstate New York, Connecticut or Rhode Island,'' says
Nate Nieto, a microbiologist at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. "Then you go over one ridge, the habitat changes completely -
and there's nothing,"
Part of what puts Californians at risk is a lack of awareness -among the public and even among doctors. Much of the research and
public health information is based on east coast ecology and may not apply to the West.
For many Californian physicians, Lyme disease is just not on the radar, even though according to the Bay Area Lyme Foundation
(http ://www.bayarealyme.or~Q. Lym e-infected ticks have been located in 42 of California's 58 counties. About ioo cases of Lyme
disease are reported in California each year, but according to Supervising Public Health Biologist Kerry Padgett of the state Department
of Publi c Health, the disease is likely more widespread.
"There is an under-diagnosis and under-reporting of Lyme disease in Ca lifornia,'' says Padgett.
How Ticks Make us Sick
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A TICK ON YOU:
Adult (left) llnd nymph (right) western blacklegged ticks. (Bay Area Lyme Foundation}
If you find• tick on your body, don't p•nlcl Remove the tick •nd keep tr•ck of wh•t happens.
• Is the tick feeding ? That is, is the tick embedded in the skin?
• If the tick is embedded, remove the entire tick carefully with a pair of tweezers. Then, if possible, save the tick in a jar or plastic bag . DO NOT try to kill the tick with oil
or mlltches while it's feeding.
• How long did it feed? If it's less than 36 hours, there's a high probability that you are safe .
• Pay attention to your symptoms. If i n 6-to-12 days, you have any kind of fever, go and see a doctor.
• A bulls-eye rash around the tick bite is a sure-fire way to know if you've contracted Lyme, but this symptom only shows up in S0-70 percent of cases. Other symptoms
include headache, fatigue, and skin rash.
Lyme disease is caused by a microscopic spiral-shaped bacteria called borrelia burgdoiferi. On the west coast, these Lyme disease-
causing bacteria live inside the guts of the western blacklegged tick and can travel into the blood streams of bitten animals.Ticks
generally Jive for two or three years. They are b orn Lyme -free, and will contract or transmit Lyme during feeding, once during each of
their three life stages.
When a Lyme-infected tick bites, it typically takes 36 -48 hours for the bacteria to make the journey from the tick's gut to their mouth
and into the blood of their host. The process can take as little as 24 hours.
Only 15-20 percent ofbacklegged ticks contain Lyme disease during their nymph stage, and that number is much lower, 1-2 percent, in
adults.
A Forest Full of Frenemies
To determine disease risk of a particular place, researchers look to some of the tick's fa vorite foods.
The mos t common reservoir of Lyme disease -the species that initially infects ticks -is the western gray squirrel.
So avoid gray squirrel habitat and you 're safe? Not so fast.
Enter the blue-bellied lizard (also known as the western fence lizard), which is naturally immune to Lyme disease, and has special
proteins in its blood that will cleanse infected ticks of the pathogen.
So, a tick could feed on a squirrel and contract Lyme, which could then be neutralized when it bites a lizard.
Blue-bellied lizards are our friends. Their blood actually cures infected ticks of Lyme disease. The "grapes· in this lizard's ear are all
feeding ticks. (Ende Aquino)
"If you go into dense black oak woodland, which is prime habitat for ticks and squirrels, we find a higher proportion of infected ticks,"
explains Salkeld. "However, if you move into a broken clearing with more light, you're going to find more lizards, and the prevalence of
Lyme goes down."
Lyme disease involves many different species and is ecologically complex, which makes it a notoriously difficult problem to solve for
researchers and public health officials.
"Medicine has the tendency to want a vaccine or a clear antibiotic silver bullet, and I don't think the Lyme system gives us that luxury,"
says Nieto.
"Lyme disease is something that we call, in the science world, a complex system, meaning that there's a bunch going on here," he
continues." there's a bunch of hosts, there's a bunch of vectors, and there's a bunch of pathogens, and that makes things difficult."
Mapping a Pathogen
California's diverse landscape and the complex interplay among species makes predicting Lyme tricky. However, the greatest risk posed
to Californians might be a lack of awareness. Doctors here are less likely to suspect Lyme when patients come in with characteristic
symptoms.
"I have talked to physicians who say that they are not aware of Lyme disease in California," says Salkeld.
Oc~an
Many are not aware of the Lyme disease risk in California. Researchen are trying to change that. (Anna
Kustnff I KOEDJ
Organizations, such as the Bay Area Lyme Foundation, along with researchers like Nieto and Salkeld, are working to change the
narrative and build the necessary evidence to make doctors aware of the scale of the problem. The foundation has a prowm
Qittp;l/www.bayarealyme.ore/bloe/bay-area-Jyme-foundation-offers-free-tjck-testine-nationwideQ offering free tick testing nationwide,
which aims to map tick-borne diseases across the country by encouraging concerned citizens to send in samples.
''We're working on gathering real empirical data to show that Lyme is in the ecosystems of the West Coast," says Nieto, ''We're getting
clinical samples, ecological [tick] samples, and wildlife host samples ... so we can change the educational paradigm within the medical
schools and say, 'It's not just the Northeast and upper Midwest'-it's in California too."
"I think Californians should be aware of ticks, and the risks of tick-borne di seases, but the fear of disease should not keep them from
enjoying the great outdoors," adds Padgett. "I really do feel it's possible to stay tick-safe while recreating and spending time outside."
EXPLORE: BIOLOGY (HTIPS;f/WW2.KOED,QRG/S(!ENCE/(ATEGORYJBIOLOGYJI. ENVIRONMENT IHUPS;//WW2.KOED.ORG/S(!ENCE/(ATEGORY/ENV!BONMENTO.
HEALTH lHTTPS;/fWWl.KOED.ORG/S(!ENCE/CATEGORYJHEALTH/I. NEWS fHTTPS;l/WW2.KOED.ORG/S(IENCE/CAJEGORY/NEWSD. BAY AREA
fHJTPS;l/WW2.KOEQ.ORG/SCIENC£/TAGIBAY-ARW). HIKING (HJTPS;l/WW2.KOEQ.ORG/SC!ENCE/TAG/HIKING/I. LYME DISEASE
fHTTPS:l/WW2.KOED.OBG/SCIENCE/TAG/!.YME·DISEASE/I. TICKS fHTIPS://WW2.KOEQ.ORG/S(!ENCE/TAGatCKS/I
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sha r-e=-:i ace bool<&n b = 1 )
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Sean Mullin
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
David Klinger <dave.klinger@sbcglobal.net >
Wednesday, August 30, 2017 6:07 PM
Council; manager@losgatossca.gov
Sean Mullin
Proposal for flatland fence height code changes
l am a resident Los Gatos. The Planning Commission is currently considering changes to the Los Gatos fence code for
hillside properties to protect wildlife . I request the Council direct the Commission to expand the scope of these changes to
include reconsideration of the flatland residential fence height restrictions .
I recently received approval by the Community Development Director to construct a replacement 7 foot high fence that
includes a 1 ft lattice on top . I paid Los Gatos $233 to process the exemption required by city code, after gaining approval
of all my adjacent neighbors. A building permit was not required since the fence was not over 7 feet high.
I discovered by walking our dogs around extensively and talking with my fence contractor that 7 foot fence replacements
are quite common. I met with Sean Mullin, of the Los Gatos planning staff to seek information about how many residents
seek the formal exemption and pay the fee. I was advised by another planning staff member at that meeting that the
number is "minimal", and that the city was unable to provide me the exact exemption application count since there is no
tracking system in place . One can only conclude that many residents simply ignore the code and replace fences without
seeking a formal exemption for those fences higher than 6 feet. Further, I talked with LG Code Compliance and was told
that fence height compliance is not an issue, perhaps one or two calls per year, due to neighbors working it out
themselves. Compliance actions do not take place unless there is a complaint..
San Jose , Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara County, and Los Altos allow 7 foot fences with 1 foot lattice without
exemptions or permits, some of these cities requi r ing adjoining neighbor approval.
Neighbor approval and "Special privacy concerns", without specific criteria, is the current Los Gatos basis for allowing
fence s over 6 feet high . Privacy is a subjective matter best left to the neighbors directly affected. Determination of whether
or not a special privacy concern exists is at the discretion of the Community Development Director per current code .
Proposal: The flatland ordinance should be modified to allow 7 foot heights with 1 foot lattice without an exemption fee if
all affected neighbors approve. The code should continue the 6 foot no-approval baseline . If a neighbor disapproves a
fence higher than 6 feet, the resident desiring the increase could appeal, starting with the Community Development
Director. Fences higher than 7 feet should continue to require a permit due to ensure safety. Front yard and corner lot
low fence limitations should remain in force, aga in for safety and visibility reasons.
I believe this change would reconcile the fence height ordinance to the apparent current LG community consensus that 7
foot fence s are often desired and are acceptable . Making this change would promote better respect for and compliance
with Los Gatos codes, and immediately reprieve many residents who are not currently code-compliant. However, this
issue is not likely to result in demonstrations and demand for c hanges at future Council meetings . Rather, this issue falls
more properly into the category of good city governance and respect for the ability of residents to work it out
themselves .
In summary,
1) The fence height code is being ignored widely,
2) Many fences are higher than si x feet, but are acceptable to the neighbors ,
3) The current height exemption criteria of "special privacy concerns" is subjective and difficult to properly evaluate,
4) When neighbors already agree on a 7 foot high fence, gaining city approval and paying associated fees unnecessarily
burdens the residents .
Respectfully ,
David L. Klinger
141 Potomac Dr
1