Neighbor Fence Rules: Brentwood vs El Cerrito
How do neighbor fence rules rules compare between Brentwood, CA and El Cerrito, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than Brentwood.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Hedges and landscaping used as boundary barriers in Brentwood are subject to the same height limits as fences (3.5 ft front, 6 ft side/rear) when used to enclose a yard. Hedges must not encroach into the public right-of-way, block sidewalks, or obscure sight lines at intersections.
View full Brentwood rules →El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Hedges and living screens in unincorporated Contra Costa County are generally treated as landscaping and are not subject to the same permit thresholds as fences, but height limits in corner-lot visibility triangles and spite-fence rules (Civil Code §841.4 over 10 feet) still apply.
View full El Cerrito rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | El Cerrito |
|---|---|---|
| Front hedge height | ~3.5 ft | - |
| Side/rear | Taller generally OK | - |
| Sidewalk clearance | 7 ft vertical | - |
| Street clearance | 13.5 ft vertical | - |
| Visibility triangle | 3 ft max | - |
| Permits | - | Usually none for hedges |
| Visibility Triangle | - | ~30 in max |
| Spite Hedge Cap | - | Civil Code §841.4 — 10 ft |
| Solar Conflict | - | Civil Code §714 |
| ROW Encroachment | - | County can order trimming |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
Can my neighbor's hedge be taller than a fence would be allowed?
Generally no if it serves as a boundary barrier in the front yard or visibility triangle—it's treated like a fence. Interior hedges can grow taller, though local courts recognize nuisance claims if hedges unreasonably deprive neighbors of light/air.
Who is responsible for trimming overhanging branches?
You may legally trim branches that cross onto your property, up to the property line, without permission—as long as you don't kill the tree. For protected heritage trees, a permit may be required before any pruning.
El Cerrito FAQ
Can I grow a 15-foot hedge along my property line?
In principle yes — hedges are not capped at fence heights — but a tall hedge built maliciously to block a neighbor could be challenged as a spite fence under Civil Code §841.4.
Can I trim my neighbor's hedge overhanging my yard?
You can trim back to the property line at your own expense without damaging the plant's health. You cannot enter their property without permission.
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