Trees & Views

The City of Del Mar is currently engaged in discussions around proposed changes to its Trees, Scenic Views and Sunlight (TSVS) Ordinance. Now is the time to review the proposed changes at https://www.delmar.ca.us/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-3677 and share your perspective on how we can balance the desire for scenic views and sunlight while protecting the natural beauty and benefits of our trees and urban forest.

Here’s a look at a few of the significant changes under consideration:

Restoring Scenic Views to 2002

Proposes rolling back the baseline for scenic view restoration applications to 2002. This means residents can seek restoration of scenic views or sunlight obstructed since the time they purchased the property, or adoption of the TSVS ordinance in 2002, whichever timeframe is shorter. This could help long-time residents restore the scenic views and sunlight they once enjoyed without being constrained by the existing 10-year timeframe. It may also lead to more aggressive removal of trees, diminishing the health benefits and natural beauty of our urban forest and the unique character that protected and mature trees contribute to our coastal community.

Shifting Costs to Tree Owner

Shifts some of the cost burden of the TSVS process to the Tree Owner. Relieves the Applicant of the burden of all costs associated with TSVS by splitting the cost of initial restoration equally between Applicant and Tree Owner. Shifts on-going maintenance costs to the Tree Owner.

Impacts on Climate Action Goals

The Climate Action Plan adopted in 2016 encourages the planting of new trees in Del Mar to help sequester carbon and to provide shade and reduce cooling costs. Removing existing trees to generate new views would negatively impact this important goal of the plan as well as potentially changing the character of Del Mar envisioned in our Community Plan.

Limiting Hedges to Six Feet High

Restricts the height of hedges located within the required front, side, or rear yards (or setback areas) on a property to a maximum of six feet high—the same height limit currently applied to fences and retaining walls. This change would potentially provide some properties with more sunlight and air, a positive benefit. For adjacent properties at different elevations, six feet high hedges might be insufficient to provide privacy.

Make your voice count in this important community discussion. Together, we can help shape a future that preserves the special character of Del Mar and ensures our community continues to thrive as a place of natural beauty, scenic views and harmonious living.