Seattle Sun Newspaper - Vol. 7, Issue 7, July 2003

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AROUND THE HOME

Fence projects: what to consider

By MATT MAURY

As the weather gets warmer and folks start spending more time out doors, many of them think about ways to change the "feel" of their yards with fencing.

Step one in deciding on the type of fence to be built is to determine what its purpose will be. Different styles of fences accomplish different things. A popular reason to install a fence to provide security for both family members and property. Whether it keeps kids and pets in, or others out, the added safety of a fence can instill a peace-of-mind for many.

Even if privacy and protection are not major concerns, some people build fences simply for the beauty added to their yards, homes and the neighborhoods. It may be a split-rail fence for climbing roses. Or, it may be a white picket fence to add character to a Dutch colonial home.

Whatever the reason, the addition of a fence will also add to the value of a home.

For those who are considering the addition or modification of a fence, these factors need to be considered:

· Style and design (Chain link? Slat? Rail?)

· Size (How tall? How long?)

· Materials (Wood? Metal? Masonry? Plastic?)

· Durability (Will it be subjected to heavy winds? Extreme sun or rain?)

· Location (Front? Back? Side? How close to house? Street? Alley?)

· Function (Hide trash cans? Screen hot tub? Support climbing flowers?)

· Cost (What's the budget?)

An often-asked question is, "Do I need a building permit for a fence?" In general, the answer is "No" if the fence is less than six feet tall. Higher than six feet may require a permit, as well as restrictions on the materials and design, so it is best to check with the local building department in those cases.

Whether or not a permit is required, there are a few "neighborhood considerations" that must be factored into any design.

First, a fence should not be built so that it blocks an automobile driver's sight. (That goes for hedges and shrubs also, especially on corner lots!) It is critical that cars pulling out of driveways and at corners can see and be seen by pedestrians and other drivers.

Second, a fence on the street side of a home should be low enough (3 or 3-1/2 feet) so that the house can be seen from the street by delivery trucks, visitors, etc.

Finally, considerate fence builders use a design that doesn't look like "the back side" to the neighbors.

When building a fence on the property line, actual survey points of reference should be used.

While it will add to the expense of the fence if a survey is needed, there is the assurance that the fence will be built in the correct location. An error in placement may cause extra expense in the future, should a neighbor challenge a fence's location.

Sometimes trellises and/or arbors are included in a fencing project, especially wooden fencing. Because they are higher the fence itself, they often require a building permit. Again, if doing the work yourself, it is best to check with the appropriate building department to discuss project. Or, if you deal with a fencing contractor, that firm will be able to provide professional advice.