Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-99-07-005 — Jerry N. Porter

Request: For Variance in R-1A zone to erect 6 ft. chain link fence within front yard setback in lieu of 4 ft. in height.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: This is an elongated lot that has frontage and access on Edgewater Drive. The property was homestead many years prior to urbanization in the neighborhood. Subsequent development of the area oriented lot frontages and access internally, away from Edgewater Drive. The applicant stated he needs the height for security. They have had cars pulling into the driveway, trash litter, and trespass. A four ft. fence would not act as a deterrent the same as a six foot fence would. Staff pointed out the other lots abutting Edgewater would in many instances be allowed up to an eight foot high fence because their side property lines abut Edgewater Dr. The height limitation of four feet only comes into play when it is located within the front yard. Several commentaries were received in favor and several were in opposition. The opposition was concerned that a tall fence up against Edgewater Drive would give the neighborhood a commercial-like appearance. In order to mitigate this concern, the BZA required the applicant to move the fence in back of an existing line of trees and shrubs up at the front. Also, the applicant stated he will plant vines to cover most of the fence view. He agreed with the conditions proposed by the BZA. There was no opposition present at the public hearing. One person spoke in favor.