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      Visibility Requirements for Landscaping Corner Lots

      Sec. 31-13. OBSTRUCTING VISIBILITY AT INTERSECTIONS.

      At public street intersections in residential areas, there shall be no fence or wall or hedge higher than three (3) feet, nor any obstruction to vision other than a post or column or tree not exceeding one (1) foot in diameter between a height of three (3) feet and ten (10) feet inside the triangular area formed by the lot lines at the following distances from the point of their intersection. (See sample diagram.)

      *As defined by the City of Phoenix Street Classification Map

      Sec. 23-32. ENCROACHMENT OF TREES, SHRUBS OR BUSHES PROHIBITED.

      It is unlawful for any person to allow trees, shrubs or bushes growing on their property to interfere with traffic signs or signals, or with the passage of pedestrians, bicyclists, vehicles, or flow of drainage water on any public right-of-way or easement.

      Where such interferences are with a traffic sign or signal, or the passage of pedestrians, bicyclists, or flow of draining water, the City is authorized after giving the owner seven (7) days notice, to take reasonable action to make sure that any encroachment is brought into full compliance. Where the interference involves the safe operation of motor vehicles, the City is authorized, after giving 24 hours notice, to go upon the property and take any action necessary to effect full compliance with the provisions of this ordinance.

      A fee totaling twice the costs for the removal or trimming of trees, shrubs or bushes will be charged to the property owner, and if not paid, will become a lien against the property.

      DO's

      • When trimming at corners or around traffic signs or signals, allow for future growth.
      • Make sure traffic signs are clearly visible to drivers.
      • After landscaping a corner lot, drive by to make sure that visibility and sidewalks are not obstructed.
      • If you see a traffic sign, traffic signal, or an intersection that is obstructed, please call the Street Transportation Department at 602-262-4659. 
      • If you have any questions, please call the Street Transportation Department at 602-262-4659 or Parks and Recreation Department - Forestry Services, at 602-262-6501.

      Dont's

      • Obstruct the view at intersections.
      • Allow your bushes and trees to obstruct important traffic signs, especially STOP and YIELD signs.
      • Allow bushes or overhanging branches to become an obstacle to bicyclists, pedestrians or buses.
      • Plant young trees or bushes that could grow much larger in a few years and obstruct the view at corners or of traffic signs.

      Don't Obstruct Vision. It's the Law!

      Did You Know?

      Property owners may be liable and can be sued for traffic accidents near their property if they fail to comply with criteria shown here. Property owners can contribute to a more efficient, convenient and, perhaps, a safer road system by "doing their part" in being considerate of others.

      For alternative formats/reasonable accommodation, call 602-262-4659 voice or 602-534-5500 TTY/TDD.


      CITY OF PHOENIX
      STREET TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
      200 West Washington Street, 5th Fl.
      Phoenix, AZ 85003-1611
      602-262-4659