Full Text¶
2
3
9
2026 Annual Town Meeting, Town of Arlington, MA
Article: 54
Warrant Article Title:
ZONING BYLAW AMENDMENT / TRAFFIC VISIBILITY
Warrant Article Text:
To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 5.3.12(A) of the
Town's Zoning Bylaws to permit buildings, structures or
vegetation across street corners if it can be shown that they will
not restrict visibility in such a way as to hinder the safe transit of a
vehicle through the subject intersection; or take any action related
thereto.
Requested By:
Caitlin Monaghan and ten registered voters
Report Excerpt:
The Board recommends No Action (3-2 Mr. Baudoin and Mr.
Revilak dissenting).
The purpose of Article 54 is to allow an exception for erecting
fences along the property lines abutting a street intersection on
corner lots in Residential districts. The article would allow a fence
over 3 feet in height within the sight triangle by right, subject to
certain provisions. The proposed fence must not materially
impede a driver’s visibility at the intersection, be free of vegetation
along its upper portion, and have an opacity of less than 35%.
Opacity is defined as the proportion of solid material to total area
when viewed perpendicular to the fence line. The article also
includes a revised definition of the term “sight triangle” and
clarifying language on how to measure the height of a proposed
fence, structure or vegetation within the sight triangle.
2
3
9
According to the proponent of Article 54, the exception allows for
taller fences that help protect children and pets but would not
restrict traffic visibility in a way that affects the safety of those
traveling through the intersection. Board members expressed
their appreciation for the thought, effort, and responsiveness of
the proponent to their feedback on this proposal since it appeared
on the 2024 warrant. Section 5.3.12.B already allows for such an
exception next to driveways so long as “it can be shown that the
vegetation or structure will not restrict visibility as to hinder the
safe entry of a vehicle from any driveway to the street,” and the
proposed change would apply a similar standard on corner lots in
Section 5.3.12.A. Some Board members stated that they could
not support a change that was not supported by the Director of
the Inspectional Services Department, who would be responsible
for enforcing it. Members also cited aesthetic concerns about the
types of fencing allowed under this article and general concerns
about adding more complexity to the bylaw. Furthermore, a
property owner is able to request a variance from restrictions on
the height and placement of structures including fences,
vegetation and buildings within sight triangles on corner lots from
the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Vote Language:
That no action be taken on Article 54.
Redevelopment Board Report
