HomeMy WebLinkAboutLDS TEMPLE - PDP - PDP120029 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 3 - MODIFICATION REQUESTFort Collins LDS Temple
Preliminary Design Submittal – Resubmittal
Modification of Standard Request
02‐06‐2013
The project requests a modification to the following standard:
Section 3.8.11(C)(2) Fences and Walls
(C) Fences or walls shall be:
(2) no more than four (4) feet high if located in the front yard, or within any required side yard setback
area in the front yard, except if required for demonstrated unique security purposes;
Requested Modification:
The project requests a modification to the standard to allow the entire perimeter fence, specifically that
portion in the front yard (between the front building line and the front property line), to be 6’ high
conforming to the height definition in LUC section 3.8.11(D). This request is based on the unique
security need outlined in the accompanying letter from the Church Security Department of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the applicant), signed by Ryan Taylor, Security Specialist. Please refer
to this letter for an explanation of the unique security concerns surrounding this project.
Justification for the Modification Request:
The project submits that, while still meeting the unique security needs of the project, this modification
regarding fence height will promote the general purpose of the standard equally well and is a nominal
divergence from LUC section 3.8.11 when considered from the perspective of the entire development
plan, as outlined below. This modification will also continue to advance the public health, safety and
welfare as stated in LUC 1.2.2.
It is understood that the intent of the 4’ height limit on fences in front yards is to create a more inviting
streetscape and public right of way by avoiding the “tunnel” effect of tall fences along sidewalks and
streets and by preserving open views from building to street and vice versa. In the submitted plans, the
portion of the fence in the project’s front yard complies with this intent. At the closest point, the fence is
35 feet from the public right of way, eliminating any potential for a “tunnel” effect. In addition, the
fence has an open architecture (68% transparency) intended to provide full visibility into and out of the
property; the fence will not obscure views to and from the building. Finally, the elements of fence design
called for in the ordinance, such as 1/3 of the frontage length being set back at least 5 feet, articulation
at openings, decorative columns, and plantings in front of the fence have all been incorporated into the
proposed fence design.