SALT LAKE CITY HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION

The Historic Landmark Commission (HLC) reviews all applications for landmark sites, demolition and new construction within locally-designated historic districts. They do not review interior work or exterior paint color, only exterior alterations. The majority of the projects presented to the HLC are either approved as submitted or with modifications.

Fences and Walls

Download design standards for site features which contain information about fences and walls (as Adobe Acrobat PDF file).

Policy: Historic landscape features that survive should be preserved when feasible. In addition, new landscape features should be compatible with the historic context. Originally, painted wood picket fences were used to enclose many front yards. The vertical slats were set apart, with spaces between, and the overall height of the fence was generally less than three feet. Wrought iron and wire fences also were used in early domestic landscapes.

Preserve historic fences where they survive. Unique elements such as wrought iron fences add charm and enhance the value of a property. Consider a fence height of three feet or less for the front yard. The four-foot fences common today were not typically found historically. A six foot fence is acceptable in the side and rear yards of a property. Exceptions for additional height require Board of Adjustment approval and must meet stringent criteria. Chain link and vinyl fences are not typically allowed in historic districts. Exceptions may be considered when the fence is not visible from the street. Existing chain link fences may be found in the historic districts, but most predate the district and will be phased out as they are replaced with historically appropriate fence types. Most fence designs that meet the Commission's standards receive administrative approval. The full Historic Landmark Commission must review proposals for chain link or vinyl fences. Consult the Design Guidelines and Section 21A.34.020.G of the Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance for the standards the Historic Landmark Commission uses in evaluating fence projects, or contact the Planning staff for further information.