[MassHistPres] Example fence policies

[Richard Smith]

Swampscott's design guidelines have this to say:

Fences
Fences in front of buildings should be open and low (not exceeding 42” in height) so as not to block the public view. Fences should be compatible with the existing building in material, proportion, style and historic period and should enhance the streetscape. Architecturally significant fences should be maintained and repaired or restored whenever possible.
Fences remote from public view.
More solid, taller fences are appropriate to provide privacy or safety but should be located where they have minimal visual impact from public ways. These fences should also be appropriate to the structure and surrounding area. Five feet is the recommended maximum height.
Vinyl, stockade, chain link, light gauge metal and concrete block are not appropriate materials for fences and generally will not be approved.

We have generally accepted traditional solid board and picket fences, painted and unpainted.  Our bylaw specifically does not give the HDC control over color.

Richard Smith
Swampscott Historical Commission

-----Original Message-----
From: MassHistPres <masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu> On Behalf Of Justin Aborn
Sent: Friday, December 13, 2019 5:23 AM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] Example fence policies

All,

We in the town of Hingham are considering updating our historic districts guidelines; particularly regarding fences and fence colors.

I did a quick search of my mail client for mentions of “fence” in this mailing list’s messages, but, stunningly, did not find anything.  (I must have bolloxed my search attempt somehow...)

Would anyone be kind enough to share their policy document containing fence-language with the list?

Justin Aborn
Commissioner 
Hingham Historic Districts Commission
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