Feb. 14 Akron Planning Commission meeting
Covered by Documenter Christina Brunson (see her notes here)
Proposed updates to Akron’s fencing regulations could make the rules clearer, reduce the need for special approvals and better reflect the needs of homeowners.
A March 17 public hearing will give residents an opportunity to weigh in on the changes with members of Akron City Council.
The proposed regulations, approved by the Akron Planning Commission on Feb. 14, would modify rules for fences in front yards, side yards and backyards, making it easier for homeowners to build or replace fences without needing a variance.
New regulations, according to a planning department memo, would allow the following:
- Front yard fences: Solid fences up to 4-feet tall would be allowed up to the property line along major streets. Currently, fences taller than 2.5 feet must be set back 20 feet from the sidewalk.
- Side street fences: On corner lots, fences up to 6-feet tall would be permitted with a 5-foot setback from the sidewalk.
- Backyard fences: Homeowners would still be allowed to install fences up to 8-feet tall, but a Summit County building permit would be required.
Council could vote on the proposed changes at its next meeting after the public hearing.
How new Akron fence laws affect homeowners
The updates aim to provide clearer guidelines and streamline approvals. They could also reduce confusion, according to the planning department memo that staff presented to the commission.
The current code consists of one paragraph. Many homeowners currently face delays or unexpected costs due to setback requirements that require them to apply for a variance.
The proposed changes to Akron fence laws would eliminate the need for many of these approvals, making it easier for residents to improve their properties, officials said.
The ability to install fences with fewer restrictions could enhance property values, and improve security. It could also contribute to neighborhood revitalization, according to the memo presented to the commission.
Form-based code at center of changes
The Department of Planning and Urban Development memo also describes how these changes would adhere to new a form-based code. The city has been implementing over the past year.
“The proposed amendment would apply the residential fence requirements adopted under the recently approved form-based code for the Merriman Valley and Summit Lake neighborhoods to the entire city,” the memo states.
Form-based code contains language, charts and diagrams that are “easy to read and understand. These fence regulations are common and effective in many cities across the country.”
Public hearing details
Residents may share their opinions at the next hearing:
Date: March 17
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Akron City Council Chambers, 3rd Floor, Municipal Building, 166 S. High St., Akron