Fences can be decorative as well as practical

Posted September 10, 2012 at 7:50 PM, Filed Under: Community News, Front Page, Village Mill

By Julann Talty
Community Standards Director

Fences can be used for many purposes – to define property lines, contain pets, protect children, create privacy, or to enhance the appearance of a property. Fences also can have a significant impact on surrounding homes and for that reason must be reviewed and approved by the BCA architectural staff.

Brandermill was developed with a relatively high density and relies on the existing open space and wooded areas to maintain buffers and preserve our natural environment, which is becoming more and more unique in suburban areas. Fences, therefore, are usually restricted to rear yards in most neighborhoods, and visibility from the street may be restricted by using natural materials and colors or, in some cases, adding landscaping.

Chain link fencing materials, barbed wire, utility wire fences with metal posts, and stockade fences are prohibited in all neighborhoods. The use of more than one fence style on a property is also generally not permitted. Post and wire fences were approved in Brandermill for many years but are no longer permitted. The existing post and wire fences will be phased out as they deteriorate and require replacement.
Landscape fences may be a maximum of 48 inches in height and privacy fences may be 85 inches in height. Not all fence styles are permitted in all neighborhoods. If you are planning to install a fence, please check the Residential Design Standards. If you don’t have a copy, pick up one at the BCA office or visitbrandermill.com and click on “Documents & Forms.”