Pittsburg, CA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Pittsburg treats hedges functioning as boundary barriers similarly to fences for height and sight-line purposes under PMC Title 18. Hedges in required front-yard setback areas are generally limited to 3.5 feet to preserve traffic visibility, while side and rear yard hedges may grow to 6 feet or taller as typical landscaping. At driveways, street corners, and intersections, vegetation within the sight-distance triangle (commonly 10-25 feet from the curb face depending on speed limits) must be maintained below 30-36 inches to preserve driver sight lines. Trees and hedges that overhang public sidewalks must maintain a 7-foot clearance above the walking surface and 13-14 feet above streets for vehicle clearance. Property owners are responsible for trimming vegetation that encroaches onto public right-of-way or a neighbor's property (neighbors have a common-law right to trim to the property line but cannot damage the parent plant). California Civil Code §841.4 (Spite Fence Act) applies to excessively tall hedges maintained maliciously to annoy a neighbor - hedges over 10 feet tall with malicious intent can be enjoined. Code Enforcement addresses overgrown, unsightly, or obstructing hedges.