SPOKANE, Wash. -- An amendment to city fence code would allow electric fences in commercial and industrial areas of Spokane.
The current code does not permit fences or barriers charged with electricity in residential, commercial, downtown, or industrial zones. The proposal would update the code to let business owners install low-voltage fence security systems in industrial areas.
Some businesses said the fencing is essential to stop crime.
"The police have been here enough times that now we just have a big folder we put all of our incident reports in and stopped doing anything because there's not a lot they can do after the fact," said Wayne Burley of ESP Electrical Supplies.
A public hearing will be held Feb. 10 to gather public testimony on the issue. The meeting will be held at City Hall council chambers at 4:00 p.m.
The electric fences would be allowed in both low and high industrial areas. Meeting additional requirements would allow them to be installed in general commercial zones as well.
The proposal would include buffer requirements, including setting the fences at least 150 feet away from daycares, school and residences. Warning signs would also be required, in addition to a non-electric fence in front of the electric one.
"There's really no way to get to the electric fence unless you climb over the perimeter fence. so there's been a lot of thought put in place to make sure it's safe and balance the need for security and safety," said Burley.
Anyone with input can also submit it to the City of Spokane Assistant Planner Boris Borisov.