Obstructing a neighbor's water view? (California, Riva: neighborhood, wedding, quality of life)

[drumpointmermaid]

Is there any ordinance or code protecting a homeowners view of the water?
My neighbor has planted a row of Leyland cypress evergreens on the only part of his property where I can enjoy a view of the water. Otherwise, he has no fences or hedges on his property boundary.The trees are now over 12 feet and completely block the morning sunrise over the bay and my quality of life and property value.

I love trees but the view is everything to me.

[North Beach Person]

You're in Drum Point? Check the CCR's but I doubt that you'll find much joy. Unless you have a deeded view easement you're out of luck.

[MDguy99]

LOL is this another thread like the one way back where some woman was complaining that her neighbor decided to take down a fence that was on his own property? Please! Where do you people come from with your sense of entitlement? PRIVATE PROPERTY- he can plant whatever he wants, even if it is a quarter acre of California Redwoods.

[mdvaden]

This shows why lake front and beach front properties with the front row seat are often the most valuable, since no lots are in-between.

[Richard Martin]

This was fought over in Mayo, MD about 10 or so years ago. A neighborhood wanted to try to force a marina out. They went back and forth for a couple of years. The marina won out in the end and in retaliation they planted about 200 Leyland Cypress' to block the waterview from the properties directly behind the marina. Back to court they went and the marina won again. There is no love lost between the marina and the neighborhood to this day. There is a very nice stretch of Leyland Cypress' though.

[gavin1177]

If it's on their property they can do what they want. My neighbor has 7 structures on his property....it seriously looks like I live next to some army compound....his entire back yard is covered in concrete driveways and walkways - the rest of the community has nice grass yards.

[Hemlock140]

The only chance for stopping a blocked view is if a building permit is issued and the city/county considers public comments and supports your position. Trees are not normally subject to government view blocking restrictions, however a homeoner's association might have such a rule.

Many a tree has been known to meet with Roundup or other herbicide under such circumstances resulting in long court cases.

Here the city of Seattle is considering a permit (expensive) for any events that block views temporarily on the waterfront. For example, a wedding with tents on a pier, cruise ship, or visiting naval ship.

[rpsfan]

Ever try to talk directly with him. Maybe he's ignorant to the fact and might change the situtation some to suit you and him.

[dursty]

Midnight tree poisoning raid.. LOL. Might take a few trips.. and a year or so, but eventually you'll have your water view back..

[drumpointmermaid]

Thanks for scoop! Neighbors have said there was something about a 42" height regulation-but I've found nothing of the sort. Before having a conversation, I wanted to do my homework....If all else fails, I can build a deck on my roof- or a tree house. Thanks again to everyone,

Drum Point Mermaid