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MalcolmH2 (California)
Posts: 1
Posted:
Our HOA comprises of ~130 single family homes in Fremont, CA.

There are privacy fences between the properties and current policy states that the fences be of natural redwood.

However, there are moves afoot in CA to require non-combustible fences, at least in very high fire risk areas. Even without state/local government action, we are concerned that home insurance carries who have become paranoid about fire risks in CA may impose restrictions.

We are thinking about an update to the current policy that provides homeowners with at least a more fireproof option. This so we can maintain some consistency but such an option would need to be aesthetically and economically reasonable.

Non-combustible fences seem to be pretty much limited to concrete, stone or metal all of which are VERY expensive. Other materials such as vinyls and composites and not non-combustible but they are more fire resistant than natural wood.

Despite the potential for strict regulations in the future, the fencing and fence materials industry seems rather unprepared and we have found relatively little helpful guidance on the topic.

Has anyone else grappled with this issue or have any suggestions/insights?

Thanks,

Malcolm
LetA (Nevada)
Posts: 2,679
Posted:
You can always install a galvanized cyclone fence. For aesthetics, there are a whole host
of vinyl pieces that can be installed between the slats. This is where the rubber meets the road for HOA ARC committees.
JeffT2 (Iowa)
Posts: 876
Posted:
Aluminum fence is not that expensive.

Have you looked into other ways to harden the properties?
MarshallT (New York)
Posts: 414
Posted:
Hi Malcom,

Do you think adding a flame-retardant coating would do anything to lessen fears and costs?

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