Council introduces ordinance changing residential hedge-height rules; second reading set for next meeting

The San Gabriel City Council opened a public hearing April 15 and introduced Ordinance No. 716, a zoning text amendment to Chapter 153 of the city’s municipal code that would update residential hedge-height regulations. The council waived full reading and scheduled the second reading and final adoption at the next regular meeting.

Acting Community Development Director Samantha Tuzart summarized the item’s history. The council first placed the zoning text amendment on the agenda July 2, 2024; it returned for discussion Sept. 17 and directed staff to prepare an ordinance after the Planning Commission recommended approval on Nov. 18, 2024 (vote 4-0). The council continued discussion in January and March 2025 and directed additional outreach and refinements before tonight’s introduction and first reading.

The ordinance language in the staff report proposes definitions for hedges, height standards in front, side and rear yards, and maintenance standards intended to balance property values with public safety and sight-line concerns. A public commenter urged more community outreach and consultation with police: "I would appreciate if our community knows a little bit more and has some input into what you're deciding," said Priscilla Geddes, who said she could not recall broad neighborhood notice and asked whether surrounding cities’ practices and police views had been consulted.

Council members observed the item has been discussed in multiple sessions and planning commission review; after brief council discussion the item advanced on a 5-0 vote to second reading and adoption at the next meeting. If adopted, the ordinance would take effect 30 days after adoption.