Residents near Elon Musk’s heavily fortified compound in West Lake Hills, Texas, have raised concerns about zoning violations and intrusive surveillance practices. Paul Hemmer, a retired real estate agent and neighborhood homeowners association head, has been vocal about the billionaire’s alleged breaches of local regulations. Hemmer claims he has been under constant surveillance due to Musk’s extensive security camera network installed across the property, which Musk purchased with plans to merge it with two adjacent lots for his family.\n\nHemmer accused Musk’s security team of falsely reporting him for indecent behavior, alleging he was naked outside his home. Hemmer denied the claim, stating he was wearing black underwear on his own property. On another occasion, Hemmer was caught on camera urinating while walking his dog, an incident he described as unsettling. In response to these intrusions, Hemmer deployed a drone over Musk’s property to document potential violations.\n\nThe neighborhood’s upscale cul-de-sac residents filed a formal complaint against Musk after noticing significant changes following his arrival in 2022. Workers erected a 16-foot chain-link fence exceeding local height restrictions and installed outward-facing surveillance cameras. Additionally, traffic congestion increased due to fleets of vehicles, particularly Teslas, parking on previously quiet streets. Security personnel, identifiable by firearm holsters, changed shifts multiple times daily, further irritating residents.\n\nThe construction violated at least six city ordinances, prompting Musk’s representatives to unsuccessfully seek retroactive approval. Hemmer’s formal complaint highlighted disruptions such as transporting service employees and laundry to other houses. Neighbors formally appealed to the West Lake Hills Zoning and Planning Commission, arguing Musk was operating a security business from his residence. Last month, the commission unanimously supported the neighbors. The West Lake Hills city council will review the decision on May 14, potentially requiring Musk to dismantle non-compliant installations. Musk’s team justified his actions citing ongoing security threats.\n— new from New York Post
