Council approves retaining a 6‑foot solid fence at 110 Emmons Avenue after neighborhood support

Akron City Council approved an ordinance allowing a property owner to retain a 6‑foot solid fence within front and side setbacks at 110 Emmons Avenue.

Planning staff explained that, under the city's zoning code, fully screened fences above 30 inches can only be built to the building line or 20 feet back from the property line; at this corner lot the building line differs along Emmons and Arrendale avenues and a 6‑foot fence located close to the right‑of‑way could create sight‑distance issues near the Windermere Community Learning Center. Staff said the options were to move the fence back to conform to setbacks or reduce its height to 30 inches; nonetheless, both planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval subject to conditions.

Garrett Lott, the property owner, testified that neighbors who have lived in the area for decades support the fence, that elevation changes make a 30‑inch fence ineffective for privacy, and that he will maintain the property. “Most of them are very impressed with the quality of it,” he said, noting many neighbors voiced support.

The council pulled the item for a favorable committee report, suspended the rules and passed the ordinance with an 11–0 vote.

Why it matters: The decision balances neighborhood privacy and property‑owner expectations with city sight‑distance and pedestrian safety concerns near a community learning center. The planning staff recommended either relocation or height reduction to ensure visibility; the council approved retention after the applicant emphasized neighborhood support.

The ordinance passed 11–0. Specific written conditions required by planning staff were referenced but not read verbatim in the meeting record.