The purpose of this section is to promote safety at intersections and drive access points by reducing obstructions to clear vision at intersections.

A vision clearance area includes the following:

A.

At the intersection of two streets, a triangle formed by the intersection of the curb lines, with each leg of the vision clearance triangle being a minimum of 35 feet in length. Where curbs are absent, the edge of the asphalt or future curb locations shall be used as a guide. The City Engineer may modify this requirement, in writing, upon finding that more or less distance is required (i.e., due to traffic speeds, roadway alignment, etc.).

B.

A portion of a lot subject to a front yard setback as defined in Section 14.11. A clear vision area does not include that portion of a second front yard outside of the area described in subsection (A).

A.

A clear vision area shall contain no planting, fence, wall, structure, or temporary or permanent obstruction, except for an occasional utility pole or tree, exceeding three feet in height, measured from the top of the curb, or where no curb exists, from the street centerline grade. Trees located within a clear vision area shall have their branches and foliage removed to the height of eight feet above the grade.

B.

Notwithstanding subsection A., a fence within a clear vision area may be up to four feet in height if it is required to comply with state requirements for outdoor activity areas associated with a family child care home or child care center.

(Ord. No. 2025-06, § 2(Exh. A), 10-6-2025)

It shall be the duty of the person who owns, possesses, or controls real property or right-of-way adjacent thereto, to maintain a clear vision area in the manner provided in this section.

A building erected in compliance with zoning ordinance setbacks is exempt from this section.

The person owning, in possession of, occupying or having control of any property within the city shall be liable to any person who is injured or otherwise suffers damage by reason of the failure to remove or trim obstructions and vegetation as required by this section. Furthermore, the person shall be liable to the city for any judgment or expense incurred or paid by the city, by reason of the person's failure to satisfy the obligations imposed by this section.

The requirements of this section shall be subject to the processes and criteria contained in Section 14.33.