Board of Zoning Appeals - October 15, 2026

The City of Grand Rapids Board of Zoning Appeals held a public hearing on October 15, 2026, regarding 761 Spencer Street NE. The applicant sought a dimensional variance to increase the maximum height of a privacy fence in the defined front yard from 3 feet to 6 feet, citing security concerns and repeated thefts at an independent/assisted-living property. A nearby resident supported the request, and the board discussed the property’s unusual layout, alternative fence placement, and potential effects on visibility and pedestrian safety near a school.

The board denied the variance by voice vote, with two members opposed. The motion found that the exceptional-circumstances and no-substantial-detriment standards were not met, citing the lack of sufficient justification for a 6-foot fence in the front yard and concerns about sight lines and neighborhood walkability; it found the not-self-created standard was met. The applicant was directed to work with staff on other ways to secure the property. No procurement, contract, or spending activity was identified.