City right-of-way (Vancouver: homes, landscaping, neighborhood)

[GreenThoughts]

How far from the street curb should you place a fence or begin landscaping (in the city of Vancouver)? In my former state, there was a city "right of way" which meant that they could dig up anything or cut plants down if they interfered with any type of work they might be doing. I see plants out to the edge of the street and wondered if such an ordinance applied here.

[cyberous]

You can start here. Building Codes and Regulations | City of Vancouver Washington

I found Vancouver is very loose with their rules, and it takes a complaint from a neighbor to get actions. Do a walk around your neighborhood and you will see lots of variation to the "rules" I wanted to add a garage to one of my properties but it defines some major setbacks. However, there are many homes that do not meet these guidelines due to the age of the structures and being grandfathered in.

I have a similar observation on plant growth, some homes are so overgrown with evergreen shrubs that it covers the entire sidewalk but the city does nothing about it.

[cdelena]

I think easements will vary on different properties but for many the easement extends in 13' from the curb. You are responsible for maintaining the area but it may be used for utilities and other public facilities. You may not legally build on it but if you do the county/city may still remove any obstruction.