El Cerrito, CA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Hedges and vegetative screens in unincorporated Contra Costa County are typically regulated under landscape standards rather than the fence chapter, and most ordinary hedge plantings do not require a permit regardless of height. However, hedges within corner-lot visibility triangles at street intersections and driveway approaches must be maintained at approximately 30 inches to preserve sight distance. Hedges that block significant solar access to a neighbor's legally installed solar system may run into conflict with the Solar Rights Act (Civil Code §714) protections. California Civil Code §841.4 bars 'spite fences' over 10 feet in height built maliciously to annoy a neighbor, and courts have applied the doctrine to dense vegetative hedges as well as conventional fences. Heritage and protected-tree ordinances in certain CPAs — notably Alamo — require permits before removing trees of specified species or diameter, which can limit aggressive hedge-replacement plans. Hedges adjacent to public right-of-way must be trimmed to avoid encroachment over sidewalks, trails, and roadways; the county can order abatement if sightlines or passage are blocked. Maintenance responsibility is treated the same as boundary trees: each owner generally has the right to trim to the property line at their own expense.