Planning commissioners approve fence and retaining-wall redesign with landscaping condition

The San Anselmo Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a residential design review and variances that will allow a new fence and a 12-foot retaining wall on a steep lot, adding a condition that the base of the wall be landscaped to mitigate its street presence. The decision followed commissioner discussion focused on visual impact, safety and maintaining some transparency in the new rail design.

Commissioners debated fence spacing and plantings before voting. "I think we should make it a condition of approval that landscaping, similar to what's shown in the rendering, be incorporated into the design," said a commissioner on the dais who moved approval. Several commissioners noted the site’s topography necessitated the taller wall but urged plantings to reduce the wall’s visual bulk. Another commissioner described the proposed 2-inch-on-center vertical spacing as a "minimum," urging slightly greater openness so the railing reads less like a solid wall.

The chair opened the item to public comment and reported none. After brief deliberation the commission approved the application with the recommended condition that front landscaping meet the fire department’s standards. Chair closed by noting the 10-day appeal period attached to the action.