Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/401422
WORLD FENCE NEWS • NOVEMBER 2014 • 63 There are many considerations to take into account when replacing or repairing fencing in historic dis- tricts, with the main one being not to drastically alter the character of the surroundings. Here are some regula- tions published by East Greenwich, R.I., Provincetown, Mass. and Con- way, Ark. regarding historic neigh- borhoods and districts, of which they have many, as do other municipali- ties. This information is presented for educational purposes only, and you must consult the actual ordinances before proceeding. East Greenwich, R.I. Minor alterations to fences and gates – While complete privacy is often not possible in densely built ar- eas, a fence can mark the boundary between one property and another, or distinguish public spaces such as streets and sidewalks from semi-pub- lic spaces such as front yards. Fences are often character defin- ing and should be treated sensitively. It is important that the fence design harmonize with the character of the historic district structure and the sur- rounding district. Materials – Fences and gates made of wrought iron, cast iron, or wood pickets are appropriate for front yards; solid vertical board wood fenc- es with a flat cap are appropriate for rear or side yards. Fences may be painted, naturally stained, or left to weather naturally. Chain link, vinyl, and stockade fences are inappropriate in any setting. Design – Front yard fences should be designed to allow views of the yard and building. While fences in the rear or side yards may be more opaque, be aware that tall solid fences that ob- scure views can also hide intruders. Gates should be compatible with any existing fencing, walls, or land- scaping, and should be designed to swing onto the private walkway or driveway, not onto the public side- walk. While fences may not exceed sev- en feet in height per zoning ordinance, fences located along street frontage should generally not exceed 42 inches (3.5 feet) in height. Impacts on abutting properties – Fences on common property lines can have a negative impact on neighboring properties. A key concern arises when the neighboring property is lower than your own and the height of the fence may seem increased and overwhelm- ing from their perspective. In addition, boundary disputes can arise on interior and rear lot lines. Considering the external impacts of a new fence and /or discussing them with a neighbor can help to alle- viate these tensions. Provincetown, Mass. Fences are important landscape features of an historic district. Oth- er bylaws address fence height, post placement, and materials appropriate for Provincetown yards. The need to expand on that guide- line has arisen regarding height and the desire for privacy. Historically, low (30" to 48" max- imum) open-picket fences in Prov- incetown confirmed lot patterns of neighborhoods, preserved sight vistas, allowed for clear vision at intersec- tions, promoted garden viewing, and encouraged conversations between neighbors. However, in the spirit of address- ing the privacy desires of some appli- cants, the commission will allow up to 6 foot wooden fences on side and rear yards only. Side yard privacy fences may start a minimum of 10' from the front façade of the house. If the lot is on a corner, and on a public way, the priva- cy fence should be constructed at the rear only. Special circumstances may require consideration on a case-by- case basis. The HDC recommends repair and retention of original wooden or iron continued on next page Repairing or replacing fencing in historic districts is a whole 'nother ball game Keep Up With The Misadventures Of Pete, Jake & Luckey Each Month in World Fence News! www.hutchison-inc.com 800-525-0121 Continuously interwoven vertical wires with horizontal cable form perfect hinge joints for flexibility. Available in 2 styles: M-5, I-2. 165 foot rolls. Certified T-Post 1.33 certified ASTM Gives maximum protection. High carbon, steel wire construction bounces back. Cross Lock knot leaves no sharp edges. High Tensile Cross Lock Fence Right-of-Way Gate CG650 2", 16 ga. Available in Red, Green,Old Iron Gray, Canyon Tan or Heavy Duty Brown Call for quotes meeting state and federal DOT specifications Industrial • Commercial • Farm • Ranch Certified Fencing Materials Interstate Highway • Federal or State Land Projects Oil Field Sites and Open Pit Mining • Residential V-Mesh Fence Ornamental Fence An old favorite, Class 1 galvanized wire fencing. Specification A-11 (Double Loop) fence has closely woven picket wires at the bottom and double-loop wires. • Field Fence • T-Posts/Wood Posts • Barbed Wire • Tubular Right-of-Way Gates • Portable Fencing Systems • Corner/Anchor Posts • High Tensile CROSSLOCK Game Fence Specification B-11 (Single Loop) styles with uniform pickets the entire height for a more open appearance. Both available in 36", 42", 48"