Trustees reduce restrictions on fence height

Painesville Township trustees have approved changes to zoning codes that will now allow property owners of corner lots to install fences up to six feet in their side yards.

The changes will be effective on Feb. 12.

In 2017, a change was made to the zoning resolution prohibiting fences taller than 3 feet in height from being put up in front yards, including the side yards of corner lots. The change was made due to safety concerns over visibility for vehicular and pedestrian traffic, according to township Assistant Zoning Inspector Harley DeLeon.

DeLeon explained a line of sight safety triangle is a method used by many communities to solve this problem. It allows clear visibility for traffic at intersections, cars backing out of their driveway, and pedestrians.

“The Painesville Township trustees recognized that this change was too restrictive, limiting corner lot property owners’ ability to best use their backyards,” DeLeon said. “The trustees asked the Zoning Commission to re-write the regulations allowing fences up to 6 feet in height in the side yard of corner lot properties.

“Realizing that safety was still a concern the trustees asked that a more effective solution be found to address visibility.”

The trustees rejected some of the changes recommended which will go back to the Zoning Commission for revisions. The next trustees meeting is scheduled for Feb 2 followed by a Zoning Commission meeting on Feb 8.