New structures in Tryon will have to adhere to design codes implemented recently by the town.

Tryon Town Council approved amendments recently to the town&39;s zoning ordinance requiring applications to construct new buildings and additions to existing buildings.

The new building design code is concerned mostly with the front of the building that faces the road. Requirements for fencing are also included, as well as garages fronting streets.

Tryon Planner Erin Burris says the planning board began working on the design codes several months ago in order to ensure all structures fit with Tryon&squo;s character.

The planning board also often approves drawings, and members say the end result of the construction was not always what the board approved.

With the new code, the town must approve all new structures and additions, including those for residential properties. The applicant must submit to the town planner either architectural drawings or hand drawings of the new structure as it faces the street. If the plans fit the town&squo;s code, approval will be given by the planner. If the plans do not fit the new code, exceptions can be given by the Tryon Planning Board.

The new code does not permit chain link fences in front yards. Materials allowed for fencing in the front yard include wood, brick, stone, wrought iron, stucco and vinyl and must be no higher than four feet. Fencing for side and rear yards may be a maximum of eight feet tall and materials include chain link, wrought iron, wood, stucco, brick, stone and vinyl. Barbed or razor wire is permitted for commerical and industrial uses in rear yards not visible from a street.

Mechanical equipment must be located to the rear or side yard and screened from view. Provisions for commercial buildings include that front facing materials cannot contain vinyl siding, regular concrete block, cast concrete or metal, but those materials may be used on walls not visible from a public street.

Residential two-car garages on the front facade of a single-family attached or multi-family dwelling unit will be required to have separate individual doors.