Neighbor Fence Rules: Brentwood vs Martinez
How do neighbor fence rules rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Martinez, CA?
Brentwood and Martinez have similar restriction levels.
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 →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Martinez follows California Civil Code §841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act), which presumes boundary fence costs are shared equally between adjacent property owners. Thirty days written notice to the neighbor is required before construction or replacement. Disputes not resolved through negotiation may be pursued in Contra Costa County Small Claims Court for amounts up to $10,000.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| - | - |
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.
Martinez FAQ
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