Pittsburg, CA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Front yard hedge max
- 3.5 ft (as barrier)
- Side/rear hedge
- 6 ft (often higher tolerated)
- Sight triangle
- 30-36 in max vegetation
- Sidewalk clearance
- 7 ft overhead
- Spite hedge law
- CA Civil Code §841.4
Summary
Hedges acting as boundary barriers in Pittsburg are subject to the same height limits as fences: 6 feet in side/rear yards and 3.5 feet in front yards. Hedges in the sight-distance triangle at driveways and corners must be kept low for traffic visibility.
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
Pittsburg treats hedges functioning as boundary barriers similarly to fences for height and sight-line purposes under PMC Title 18. 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). 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim my neighbor's hedge overhanging my yard?
My neighbor's hedge is over 10 feet and blocking my view. What can I do?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pittsburg
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Neighbor Fence Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle neighbor fence rules.