San Gabriel council directs staff to remove residential hedge‑height limits, keep corner and visibility safeguards

Planning staff explained that hedges in San Gabriel are currently regulated like fences and walls: front‑yard limits of 4 feet and side/rear limits of 6 feet. Staff noted that neighboring cities use similar standards and that hedges in the public right‑of‑way are separately regulated under tree/planting codes.

Councilmembers described common situations where 6 feet of screening is insufficient for privacy (two‑story neighbors) and noted inconsistent enforcement has made the standard a tool in neighbor disputes. Several members argued that maintenance and neatness are more important than a strict numerical cap, while also recognizing legitimate sight‑line and safety concerns at intersections and driveways.

Public‑safety staff advised limits where vegetation would obstruct visibility at corners or otherwise create a hazard for pedestrians and motorists. Council discussed options including retaining lower numeric caps at front/corner locations, allowing higher screening in side/rear yards, and requiring see‑through materials (e.g., decorative iron) on corner fencing. Ultimately the council directed staff to prepare ordinance language that would remove fixed residential hedge‑height limits for side and rear yards and return with draft code changes that address corner visibility, public right‑of‑way planting, maintenance expectations and enforcement standards.

Next steps: staff will draft ordinance language incorporating those directions and return to council with recommendations and illustrations before the council takes any formal vote.