Erlanger council asks staff to study a zoning exception to allow front‑yard fences for homes with autistic children

A council member asked April 7 that staff explore whether zoning rules could be adjusted to permit front‑yard fencing for households with autistic children who are at risk of elopement, citing a recent Boone County case that resulted in a large search.

Council members discussed possible approaches, including a conditional‑use allowance processed through the board of adjustments or a narrowly tailored code change that would allow an exemption when a demonstrated medical necessity exists. Several members raised privacy concerns and cautioned against requiring medical disclosure; one councilor suggested a conditional‑use process that would avoid forcing parents to disclose diagnoses publicly.

Staff (PDS) was directed to research existing rules, potential HIPAA or privacy implications, and how similar allowances might be structured without opening the policy to blanket applications. Council noted the need to balance family safety, nondiscrimination, and administrative feasibility; Ms. Fields said she will raise the issue with PDS at an upcoming meeting.

No ordinance or formal adoption was proposed at the April 7 meeting; council asked staff to return with options and legal guidance for further consideration.