HomeMy WebLinkAboutJ_SPECIAL_FENCE_PERMIT_RADIN_160821_V1City of Renton - Special Fence Permit Justification
Property Owner: Benjamin Radin
Address: 274 Thomas Ave SW, Renton, WA 98057-2251
Parcel #: 2143700404
Project Scope: I would like to build approximately 72’ of cedar fencing that is 8’ tall with a 2’
privacy screen on top (10’ total), starting on the NE corner of the property and extending west
along the northern line that abuts the Earlington Park. There exists currently a 6’ chain link
fence installed by the city, and a 6’+2’ cedar fence installed by a previous homeowner. The
existing cedar fence would be demolished to make way for the new fence.
Need for special fence permit: Due to the public park next door being approximately 2-3’
higher in elevation than my yard, a standard 6’ fence with a 2’ privacy screen is not sufficient to
block sight lines into the yard, especially with the tall play structure that exists on the southern
side of the park. It is my hope to build an 8’ fence with a 2’ privacy screen to provide better
screening from public view and to reduce the noise that comes from the park.
Landscaping: As this fence would be built directly adjacent to the city’s chain link fence, I
would not be installing landscaping on the outside of the fence. Building the new fence close to
the existing chain link fence will also remove an existing 9-12” gap between the fences that
allows invasive plants from the park (English ivy, holly, and Himalayan blackberries) to take hold
in an area where they are incredibly difficult to remove. The park already has a landscaped
area on that side of the fence extending several feet up the slope into the park.
Clear Vision Areas: As the fence will stop at least 40’ short of the sidewalk and road (Thomas
Ave SW), it would not be an impairment to any clear vision areas and would not present a
hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
Conclusion: Due to the unique circumstances and challenges of living next to a city park, I
sincerely hope that this height exemption be granted without any other setback or landscaping
requirement which would not be feasible. I would be happy to provide photos or arrange a site
visit if it is helpful in your determination.