Cooper City board sets 8-foot maximum hedge height in code amendment

Cooper City Planning & Zoning Board members voted May 19 to adopt a code amendment establishing an 8-foot maximum height for hedges, measured from adjacent grade, while retaining existing line-of-sight and location-based exceptions.

Community development staff member Jason told the board the code previously specified a 6-foot height for walls and fences but omitted an explicit hedge maximum. He said the proposed language places hedges under a defined maximum “unless otherwise specified by code” and that exceptions remain where sight-line, berm slope or other provisions require a lower height or specific treatment.

Board members raised questions about where the limit would apply and whether it was intended for residential as well as commercial properties. Jason said the change would be general but confirmed that areas with line-of-sight concerns or berms would continue to be governed by the lower standards in other code sections. He also said staff and commissioners favored 8 feet because maintenance above that height typically requires professional crews and specialized equipment, which could make enforcement difficult for homeowners.

After brief discussion, the board moved and unanimously approved the 8-foot hedge-height amendment by voice vote.