Local zoning · Rosemead

Rosemead — Landscaping and Screening

Landscaping and Screening under the Rosemead local zoning and planning code, with the controlling citations.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 2, 2026

Overview

This page summarizes what the Rosemead Zoning Code (Title 17) actually requires for landscaping, screening, fences, walls, and trees. It pulls the controlling standards for residential and nonresidential properties (including parking lots and service stations), explains the measurement rules and prohibited materials, and shows where requirements vary by zone. Always verify parcel‑specific application with the Community Development Department. § references below point to the Rosemead Zoning Code and supporting development standards.

Citywide framework (how Rosemead organizes these rules)

  • The primary supplemental standards for fences, walls and screening live in Chapter 17.68 (Fences, Walls, and Landscape Screening); permit triggers and height rules are located throughout that chapter. § 17.68.010–100 set the purpose, permit rules, height measurement and prohibited materials.
  • Landscape plans and irrigation requirements for larger developments are required in the commercial, multifamily and mixed‑use development standards (e.g., the commercial/industrial district standards and mixed‑use sections). See the landscape/irrigation requirements in § 17.20.030 and related development‑standards tables.
  • Many landscape rules must also comply with Rosemead’s Water Efficient Landscapes ordinance (RMC Chapter 13.08).

Note: this page links to related topics in the Rosemead menu where those topics are normally used in applications: Rosemead Zoning, Rosemead Development Standards, Rosemead Parking, Rosemead Design Review, Rosemead Overlay Districts, Rosemead ADUs and the California Building Standards Code. See the first occurrences of those topics below.

Key code requirements and how they apply (district-by-district)

R-1 and R-2 (single‑family and lower‑density residential)

Purpose / typical uses

  • The R-1 and R-2 zones are standard residential districts intended for single‑family and small multi‑family housing; the overall Title 17 purpose emphasizes preserving neighborhood character.

Landscaping & screening requirements

  • A minimum of 20% of the parcel must be fully landscaped in R-1 and R-2 zones; front and side yard impervious surfaces visible from the street are limited to 50% of those yards. See § 17.12.030.B.1.a.
  • Hedges and landscape in required front yards are limited to 4 ft in height; landscape screening in residential rear or side yards is generally not height‑limited (except on reversed corner lots). See § 17.68.030 (A & B).

Fences & walls

  • Residential fence permits are required to install or replace fences/masonry walls in residential zones; front yard fences may not exceed 4 ft; side/rear yard fences may be up to 6 ft. See § 17.68.020 and § 17.68.030.

Where this applies

  • Standard single‑family and small multifamily lots citywide unless superseded by a specific plan. Verify overlays that may change standards. See Rosemead Zoning. [/us/california/rosemead/zoning]

R-3 (higher-density/multi‑family residential)

Purpose / typical uses

  • R-3 accommodates multifamily developments (three or more units in many cases) and therefore requires more formal landscape plans.

Landscaping & screening requirements

  • Usable open spaces, courtyards and common areas must be landscaped and have permanent irrigation and moisture sensors; a landscape and irrigation plan prepared by a professional is required with Site Plan & Design Review. See § 17.12.030.B.2.c and related multifamily landscaping rules.
  • Minimum planting sizes and proportions for trees and shrubs are prescribed (e.g., trees 15‑gallon minimum, specific percent coverage targets). See the multifamily landscaping subsections.

Fences & walls

  • Walls and fences must complement building design and where multifamily abuts residential uses a masonry wall (often 6 ft where adjacent to residential) may be required; front yard limits still apply. See § 17.12.030 and § 17.68.030–040.

Where this applies

  • R-3 parcels across the city; multifamily projects are normally subject to Site Plan and Design Review. See Rosemead Design Review. [/us/california/rosemead/design-review]

Commercial zones (C-1, C-3, C-4, CBD) — general commercial

Purpose / typical uses

  • Commercial districts regulate retail, services, and related non‑residential uses; landscaping is intended to present visible, water‑efficient frontage and to screen service areas. Not all permitted uses are repeated here — verify the allowed uses in the zone's use table. Not found in retrieved materials for a full use list.

Landscape & screening requirements

  • Commercial developments must submit landscape and irrigation plans to the Planning Division for approval and maintain permanent irrigation; many commercial sections require a percentage of the gross lot area to be landscaped — commonly cited values are 6% or 3% depending on the specific commercial standard that applies to the property. See § 17.20.030 (Landscape and Irrigation Plans) and the commercial development standards.
  • Parking lot landscaping: a minimum of one tree per 1,500 sq ft of parking area is required in many commercial standards; separate parking chapter rules require interior parking landscaping (e.g., ≥ 2% of gross parking area or 3% for M‑1 industrial) and five‑foot frontage planting strips at streets. See Chapter 17.112 and commercial development standards. [/us/california/rosemead/parking]

Fences & walls

  • Where commercial properties abut residential uses the Code commonly requires a six‑foot solid masonry wall along the common property line, reduced to 3–4 ft within required residential front setback areas. See § 17.68.040 and mixed‑use wall rules.

Where this applies

  • City commercial corridors and centers; verify district‑specific table entries in Table 17.20.030.1 and the CI‑MU / M‑1 columns. See Rosemead Development Standards. [/us/california/rosemead/development-standards]

CI‑MU (Commercial/Industrial — Mixed‑Use)

Purpose / typical uses

  • CI‑MU is a mixed commercial/industrial designation that includes rules to keep display and storage out of public view and to require enhanced screening when abutting residential.

Landscape & screening requirements

  • CI‑MU requires landscape/irrigation plans and typically calls for 3% (in some tables) or 6% (in other contexts) landscaped lot area depending on the specific subsection — the Code contains both figures in different subsections; read the table and the zone text that applies to your parcel. See § 17.20.030 and the CI‑MU development standard table.

Fences & walls

  • Prohibits chain‑link, barbed/razor wire and other hazardous fencing types for CI‑MU in most situations; where property abuts residential uses a 6‑ft masonry wall is often required. See § 17.68.080 and the CI‑MU wall rules.

M‑1 (Light Industrial)

Purpose / typical uses

  • M‑1 is the industrial district; rules prioritize screening of mechanical equipment and storage and often require more robust perimeter walls where adjacent to residential uses.

Landscape & screening requirements

  • The M‑1 table and Chapter 17.112 parking rules require 3% interior parking landscaping (or other numeric standards listed in the M‑1 column) and often 6‑ft walls next to residential. See the M‑1 column in the commercial/industrial standards and Chapter 17.112.

Fences & walls

  • Where M‑1 abuts residential use a solid masonry wall not less than 6 ft (and up to 8 ft in some M‑1 situations) is required; reduced heights apply where adjoining a required front yard. See § 17.68.040 (C).

Service stations and special uses

  • Service stations carry detailed site landscaping and screening requirements (planters, planting areas at corners, minimum 5% of site landscaped for service stations, curbs, planter widths), plus required screening of outside entrances and trash areas. See the automotive service station standards (e.g., § 17.30.080 subsections on landscaping and screening).

Overlay zones (example: RC‑MUDO)

  • Overlay zones like RC‑MUDO may add or change landscaping/screening expectations; the RC‑MUDO is applied as an overlay and may introduce mixed‑use landscaping and screening expectations. See the RC‑MUDO overlay text. [/us/california/rosemead/overlay-districts] Not found in retrieved materials for specific RC‑MUDO landscaping modifications.

Most decision‑relevant standards (quick reference table)

Topic Requirement (typical) Code Reference
Residential front yard fence height 4 ft maximum in R‑1/R‑2/R‑3 front yards § 17.68.030
Residential side/rear fence height 6 ft maximum in R‑1/R‑2/R‑3 side/rear yards § 17.68.030
Landscape screening height (rear/side) Generally no height limit in residential rear/side yards; reversed corner lot limits apply § 17.68.030 (B)
Commercial/mixed‑use landscaped area Varies — Code text contains 6% in some sections and 3% in other tables; confirm which subsection applies to the parcel § 17.20.030 (see commercial table)
Parking lot trees 1 tree per 1,500 sq ft (commercial parking rule); parking chapter: ≥2% interior landscaping (M‑1 3%) § 17.20.030 and Chapter 17.112
Perimeter wall adjacent to residential 6‑ft solid masonry wall typically required; reduced to 3–4 ft in front setback area § 17.68.040 and mixed‑use wall rules § 17.12.030
Prohibited fence materials Barbed/razor wire, electrified wire, chicken wire, chain‑link generally prohibited in residential; limited exceptions for rear yards/temporary construction § 17.68.080
Fence permit trigger Residential: fence permit required; Nonresidential: administrative site plan review for new/replacement fences § 17.68.020
Landscaping irrigation Permanent automatic underground irrigation and moisture sensors required for most developments; comply with the city's Water Efficient Landscapes rules § 17.20.030 / RMC Ch. 13.08

Practical guidance (synthesis & comparisons)

  • If you are a homeowner in R‑1/R‑2, expect a simple fence permit process for replacing a fence and strict 4 ft front yard and 6 ft side/rear yard height limits — planting hedges in rear/side yards is generally allowed with fewer height constraints, but hedges may not encroach onto sidewalks or lot lines. See § 17.68.020–030.
  • If you are planning a commercial or multifamily project, be prepared to submit a Landscape and Irrigation Plan (often prepared by a professional) as part of Site Plan & Design Review; the code prescribes minimum landscaped area percentages, tree counts for parking, and mandatory underground irrigation with moisture controls. See § 17.20.030 and the Site Plan/Design Review criteria.
  • Where commercial or industrial property abuts residential zones, expect mandatory masonry walls and denser screening; chain‑link and hazardous wire fences are broadly prohibited in those contexts. See § 17.68.040 and § 17.68.080.
  • Parking lot landscape minimums are enforced both in the commercial development standard and in the parking chapter — check both § 17.20.030 and Chapter 17.112 when designing parking and tree layout. [/us/california/rosemead/parking]

Checklist — what an applicant must satisfy

  • Provide property‑specific confirmation of applicable zoning district (e.g., R‑1, R‑2, R‑3, C‑1/C‑3/C‑4/CBD, CI‑MU, M‑1). Verify with Rosemead Zoning. [/us/california/rosemead/zoning]
  • If residential: apply for a fence permit for new or replacement fences/walls (§ 17.68.020).
  • If nonresidential: prepare for administrative site plan review for fencing/walls; submit screen planting info (§ 17.68.020).
  • For commercial/multifamily/mixed‑use: submit a Landscape & Irrigation Plan (professional when required) with irrigation specs and moisture sensors; include tree counts and parking‑lot landscaping (§ 17.20.030, RMC Ch. 13.08).
  • Dimension fences/walls so they comply with front/side/rear height limits and masonry wall requirements where adjacent to residential (§ 17.68.030–040).
  • Where parking is present, provide tree counts and planting strips per Chapter 17.112 (e.g., 1 tree/1,500 sq ft or interior landscape % as applicable). [/us/california/rosemead/parking]
  • Show screening for mechanical equipment, trash and loading in plans; provide masonry or decorative walls and/or dense landscaping as required by the Code (§ 17.20.030 and design guidelines).
  • Ensure all landscaping materials and irrigation comply with the city’s Water Efficient Landscapes ordinance (RMC Ch. 13.08) and ongoing maintenance obligations.

Risks & Ambiguities

Issue Why it matters What to verify
Conflicting percent landscaping figures (3% vs 6%) The code text includes both 3% and 6% in different subsections/tables for commercial/mixed‑use standards — applying the wrong figure will make plans noncompliant. Confirm which subsection/table applies to your parcel (check Table 17.20.030.1 and the specific zone column). § 17.20.030.
Reversed corner lot rules Height limits for hedges/fences in street‑side areas differ for reversed corner lots; a hedge you think is legal may violate sight‑distance/frontage rules. Verify whether the lot is a reversed corner lot and apply § 17.68.030 reversed corner provisions.
Grade differences between adjoining parcels Fence height is measured from ground elevation; different grades can effectively change allowed height. Confirm how height will be measured on your site — the Community Development Director can determine measurement when grade difference ≥ 2 ft. § 17.68.070.
Chain‑link exceptions Chain‑link fences are generally prohibited but allowed in limited rear/side yard screening or temporary construction; misusing chain‑link can trigger enforcement. If you propose chain‑link, identify which exception you rely on and cite § 17.68.080.
Overlays & Specific Plans Specific Plans or overlays (e.g., Garvey Ave specific plan or RC‑MUDO) can supersede Title 17 standards. Check whether a Specific Plan or overlay applies to your parcel and, if so, use that plan’s landscaping and screening rules. § 17.04.020.C.
Parcel‑level design review triggers Design Review may add additional landscape/irrigation standards (species, sizes, coverage) beyond zone minimums. Confirm whether your project requires Design Review and the applicable findings/conditions in Article 5; consult the Planning Division.

Plain‑English summary

Rosemead requires modest, zone‑specific landscaping and careful screening: small houses must keep front fences low (4 ft) and side/rear fences usually 6 ft, multifamily and commercial projects must file landscape and irrigation plans with automatic underground irrigation and meet minimum landscaped‑area/tree requirements, and properties next to homes typically need masonry walls and dense planting; chain‑link and razor wire are generally forbidden. Key rules live in Chapter 17.68 and the commercial/multifamily development sections (§ 17.20.030, Chapter 17.112, RMC Ch. 13.08) — verify the precise subsection that applies to your parcel before you build.

Source References

  • Rosemead Zoning Code, Title 17 — Purpose and applicability (Title 17 overall): § 17.04.010–030.
  • Chapter 17.68 — Fences, Walls, and Landscape Screening (purpose, permits, heights, prohibited materials): § 17.68.010–100.
  • Commercial & Industrial District Development Standards, Landscape & Irrigation Plans (percentages, parking trees): § 17.20.030 and Table references.
  • Multifamily / R‑3 landscaping and irrigation plan requirements: § 17.12.030.B.2.c and related subsections.
  • Parking chapter and interior parking landscaping / strips: Chapter 17.112 (parking interior landscaping percentages and frontage planting strips). [/us/california/rosemead/parking]
  • Service station landscape/screening specifics (planters, percentages): § 17.30.080 subsections.
  • Site Plan and Design Review criteria and thresholds (screening of equipment, trash, walls): Article 5 / Design Review sections. [/us/california/rosemead/design-review]

Sources

Retrieved passages

  • Rosemead Zoning Code (§ 5) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 13.08) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Article 4) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (§ 3) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 13.08) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Article 5) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 17.68.) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Section 17.08.050.I.) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 17.68.) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Section 17.12.030.B.1.) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 17.112) High relevance
  • Rosemead Zoning Code (Chapter 17.32) High relevance

Cited sections

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to install a fence in Rosemead?

Yes. A fence permit is required for new or replacement fences/masonry walls on residential property; nonresidential properties require administrative site plan review for new/replacement fences. See § 17.68.020.

How tall can a front‑yard fence be in Rosemead's R‑1 zone?

In R‑1 (and R‑2/R‑3) the maximum fence height in a required front yard is 4 ft. See § 17.68.030 (A.2).

Can I plant a 10‑ft hedge along my side yard to screen a neighbor?

Landscape screening in residential rear or side yards is generally not subject to a height limit, so a tall hedge is usually allowed — but reversed corner lots and front yard areas have different limits, and hedges must not encroach on sidewalks or lot lines. See § 17.68.030 (B.1–2).

Are chain‑link or barbed‑wire fences allowed?

Barbed/razor wire, electrified wire, chicken wire, and chain‑link are generally prohibited in residential zones; limited chain‑link exceptions exist for rear yards not visible from the right‑of‑way or temporary construction fencing. See § 17.68.080.

What landscaping do I need for a new shopping center or apartment building?

Commercial, mixed‑use, and multifamily projects must submit a Landscape & Irrigation Plan, provide permanent underground irrigation with moisture sensors, and meet minimum landscaped‑area and tree‑planting standards (the code lists 3% or 6% figures in different subsections — confirm the applicable subsection). See § 17.20.030 and multifamily landscaping rules.

How many trees are required in a parking lot?

The Code requires parking lot landscaping including trees; many commercial sections require at least one tree per 1,500 sq ft of parking, and Chapter 17.112 requires interior landscaping (e.g., ≥ 2% of parking area, 3% in M‑1). Check both the commercial standard and Chapter 17.112.

If my lot slopes, how is fence height measured?

Fence height is measured from the ground elevation or finished grade on the property where the fence is built; where adjoining parcels differ by 2 ft or more the Community Development Director will determine the appropriate measurement. See § 17.68.070.

Do properties next to homes need masonry walls?

Yes — where a nonresidential or mixed‑use property adjoins residential property, a 6‑ft solid masonry wall is often required along the side or rear lot line; reduced heights apply adjacent to front yard setbacks. See § 17.68.040 and mixed‑use wall rules.

Will Design Review require extra landscaping or screening?

Possibly. Projects subject to Site Plan & Design Review must demonstrate screening for mechanical equipment, trash and loading areas and may be required to add additional landscaping beyond minimum percentages to meet design findings. See the Design Review criteria and Site Plan requirements in Article 5.

Where do I check if an overlay or specific plan changes these requirements?

Check whether a Specific Plan or Overlay applies to your parcel — Specific Plans can supersede Title 17 standards where they are explicit. See § 17.04.020.C and the applicable overlay/specific plan text. [/us/california/rosemead/overlay-districts] ---

More in Rosemead code

Ask about any Rosemead property

Get a cited, plain-English answer on Rosemead zoning, setbacks, FAR, ADUs and permits — for any address.

Start Free Trial

More Rosemead zoning topics

Rosemead Zoning

Rosemead Land Use

Rosemead Development Standards

Rosemead Parking

Rosemead Design Review

Rosemead Overlay Districts

Rosemead Historic Preservation

Rosemead Signage

Rosemead Nonconforming Uses

Rosemead Variances and Exceptions

Rosemead overview