City Planner LaSheila Jones told the council that the change would allow opaque fences on residential front yards along certain major streets — including Bear Creek Road, Hampton Road, Ewell Road and Southwest — made of stained wood, wrought iron or similar decorative materials with a minimum height of 4 feet and a maximum height of no more than 6 feet. The proposal does not apply to properties with side access or properties within planned subdivisions.
The planner said the change aims to address safety concerns on busy roads and give property owners an option they don't currently have. “As there is more traffic on these roads, there is some concern for residents,” Jones said. Staff recommended approval of the regulation as amended for a first reading.
Council members discussed aesthetics, safety and enforcement. Councilman Lightfoot asked if code enforcement would also address deteriorating fences; Jones said code enforcement is responsible. Several council members said they supported allowing decorative, non-opaque fences, but expressed concerns that a 6-foot-tall front fence could create a “composite” appearance and reduce visibility for public safety.
Mayor Pro Tem Binford has asked staff to investigate a 2021 Texas law change that impacts homeowners associations and home fencing. Councilman Garrett and others pushed for the ordinance to allow the council to hear variance requests for taller fences rather than creating exceptions for tall fences.
Several council members, including Hale and Bridal, advocated for a uniform height — several said 4 feet would balance visibility and safety. Others preferred maintaining 6 feet as the possible maximum using a variance method. Jones and the city attorney noted that the SUP (special use permit) or variance process remains available for exceptions and that staff can add a provision authorizing the council to approve variances on second reading if the council so chooses.
O-05-25 was not voted on in first reading; The council gave staff instructions to refine language to reflect the discussion and examine legal limitations and precedents. Members who asked for further details said staff should send the ordinance back for second reading with clarified language on heights and deviations.