Brentwood, CA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- 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
Summary
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.
841. (a) Adjoining landowners shall share equally in the responsibility for maintaining the boundaries and monuments between them. (b) (1) Adjoining landowners are presumed to share an equal benefit from any fence dividing their properties and, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties in a written agreement, shall be presumed to be equally responsible for the reasonable costs of construction, maintenance, or necessary replacement of the fence. (2) Where a landowner intends to incur costs for a fence described in paragraph (1), the landowner shall give 30 days’ prior written notice to each affected adjoining landowner.
Full Breakdown
Brentwood treats live hedges functioning as boundary barriers similarly to fences under BMC Title 17 for the purpose of height limits in front-yard setbacks and corner visibility triangles. A front-yard hedge along the property line is generally limited to 3.5 feet, while interior side and rear-yard hedges may grow higher. Property owners must trim landscaping to prevent encroachment over sidewalks (7 ft vertical clearance) and streets (typically 13.5 ft vertical clearance), and to avoid obstructing traffic signs, streetlights, and fire hydrants. Brentwood's Public Works Department issues correction notices for overgrown hedges that create pedestrian or vehicle hazards. Corner-lot visibility triangles require all landscaping to be under 3 feet in height within 25-30 feet of the intersection. Protected trees (heritage oaks and other specified species) have additional rules and cannot be removed without a permit. Homeowners can request mediation with neighbors over shade or root issues; disputes go to small claims court, as Code Enforcement doesn't arbitrate private landscaping conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my neighbor's hedge be taller than a fence would be allowed?
Who is responsible for trimming overhanging branches?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Brentwood
California rules heatmap·Compare Brentwood to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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Neighbor Fence Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle neighbor fence rules.