Politics & Government
North Hempstead Town Board Still Undecided Over Fence Heights
New limits on residential fence height spark debate.
Town Board members are still on the fence over a proposed change to limit heights of residential fences in North Hempstead. At Tuesday night's in Manhasset, trustees continued the debate which has gone on for several years over the four-foot height limitation currently in place.
The proposed legislation would only allow fencing in the front of the house to be 4-feet in height, 5-feet on the sides of the residence and six feet along the side of the back yard and along the rear property line. The restrictions were lowered from a proposed height of six feet around the entire property, which was the height proposed at the Oct. 5 board meeting and adjourned until .
Currently, only residents who either have an outdoor pool or who are granted a permit from the zoning board of appeals are allowed fences over four feet in height.
Find out what's happening in New Hyde Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"This is a compromise based on all the conversations we've had and feedback we've received," Councilman Fred L. Pollack, D-Port Washington, said.
A member of the North Lakeville Civic Association objected to the height restrictions, saying that "having fences this tall will detract from the suburban character of the neighborhood." However, a Roslyn resident was in favor of taller fences as a safety measure for pets, arguing "plenty of dogs can jump over a four foot or five foot fence." He later added that "yes, you can have a view with a shorter fence, but what are you seeing? You're seeing your neighbor."
Find out what's happening in New Hyde Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The hearing was adjourned until the Dec. 14 board meeting.