Board approves 8-foot privacy fence at 249 South Larkspur Drive

The Castle Rock Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance Sept. 3, 2026, allowing a property owner to build an 8-foot privacy fence at 249 South Larkspur Drive. The variance increases the allowed fence height from the 6-foot maximum to 8 feet for a limited section of the yard; the motion passed by roll-call vote, 5-0.

Town staff explained the request and presented photographs showing grade differences between the subject lot and an adjacent property with a legal accessory dwelling unit (ADU), which staff said increases visibility into the applicant’s backyard. Staff also noted letters of support from the adjacent neighbor and several other neighbors and confirmed the property is not subject to a homeowners association.

The applicant, who identified himself in the hearing as Michael Bolsinger, described how his house sits below street grade, how drainage and narrow side-yard dimensions limit options for vegetative screening, and why he believes the 2-foot increase is necessary for privacy. “My house was built 30 years ago and my neighbor’s house was built about 10 years ago…so we have a very tight area over there,” he said, adding the proposed taller section would be limited to the area adjacent to the ADU.

During deliberation the board reviewed the six variance criteria required by municipal code — hardship not created by the applicant, unique physical conditions, and lack of adverse effect on neighborhood character or public welfare — and expressed agreement that the application met each criterion. Board member McAfee moved to approve the variance; the motion was seconded and carried 5-0. Staff reminded the applicant that a building permit is required for fences taller than 6 feet.

Note on record spelling: the staff report lists a trustee name spelled “Michael Olsinger” while the individual who spoke at the hearing identified himself as “Michael Bolsinger.” The applicant’s self-identification is used here for attribution; the meeting record contains both spellings.