Commission recommends removing hedge height limits from zoning code, urges council to consider front‑yard safety and sight‑line language

The San Gabriel Planning Commission on Nov. 18 recommended the City Council adopt a zone text amendment that would remove references to hedge height from the zoning chapter and continue to regulate height limits for block walls and fences.

Staff explained the City Council asked staff to bring options after noting hedge heights vary across neighborhoods and maintenance—rather than a fixed numeric cap—may better address concerns. Under current code, hedges are regulated similarly to walls and fences with a 4‑foot front‑yard limit and 6‑foot side/rear limits; the draft amendment would maintain limits for walls and fences but eliminate numeric height limits for hedges in chapter 153 while keeping existing maintenance requirements under the public‑nuisance chapter (section 98.02).

Commissioners raised safety and sight‑line concerns for tall hedges in front yards and public rights of way, noting potential blocked visibility at driveways and streets and the risk of hiding places. Others emphasized privacy and aesthetic continuity and questioned enforcement where the recently approved hedge definition can include closely planted trees and shrubs that merge over time.

Several commissioners suggested the commission recommend that the City Council consider crafting limited front‑yard language or a numeric compromise (examples discussed included 7.5–9.5 feet) to balance privacy and safety. One commissioner urged that staff return with alternative wording if the council wants to preserve some front‑yard limitation without treating hedges the same as walls.

A motion to adopt the Planning Commission resolution recommending the amendment and to forward the commission’s guidance to City Council passed by a 4–0 vote. Staff will transmit the resolution and the commission’s record to City Council for its review; council action would be required to amend the municipal code.