Board OKs 8-foot privacy fence at 274 Booth Road after neighbors cite safety and privacy concerns

The Cheektowaga Board of Appeals voted to allow an 8-foot fence at 274 Booth Road, granting a variance from the local zoning limit of 6 feet in rear and side yards.

The applicant told the board the fence would restore privacy from apartment windows that currently overlook the yard. "I have absolutely no privacy from those apartments," the applicant said, describing kitchen and upstairs windows that face the backyard and a pool. The board discussed sight lines, the required 25-foot setback from the street and a 3.5-foot allowance within that area.

Board members and neighbors also described safety and nuisance incidents near the property. The applicant referenced police response on July 4 and reported instances of stolen cars and garbage being thrown over the existing fence. A board member noted the fence would reduce visibility from apartment porches and likely increase privacy.

Motion and vote: The motion to grant the variance was made and seconded by board members on the record; the board approved the 8-foot fence with the stated setback conditions.

What happens next: The applicant was told to expect written confirmation of the decision and to follow up with town staff on the specifics of the permitted fence location and required steps to obtain any building permits. If the fence or placement is later found to conflict with a verified property line, the applicant may have to return to the board.

Why it matters: The decision adjusts an ordinary residential limit to address privacy and safety concerns raised by a homeowner near a multifamily property, while the board clarified the limited circumstances where taller screening is allowed.