Controversy over a proposal to restrict residential fence heights in Napier.

The City Council's proposed District Plan includes suggesting limits as low as 1.2 metres - for fencing new properties.

Fences would be allowed up to 1.8 metres if at least half is visually open, or half of it is only 1.2 metres tall.

Mayor Kirsten Wise says there's evidence shorter fences make people feel safer.

"People on the street or in neighbouring properties can see what's happening, as opposed to these big fences which totally block off a property- and anybody could be jumping over that fence and doing who knows what."

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