Sight Distance
Visual Obstructions and the Clear Vision Area
Unified Development Code 35-506(d)(5)
To ensure the safety of motorists and other travelers, it is necessary that drivers who are entering an intersection have an adequate view of approaching motorists. This view is required over a clear vision area.
Clear Vision Area
The clear vision area is the portion of property over which motorists must see to safely judge and execute a driving maneuver into the intersection and onto the street. This applies to intersections of two or more streets as well as junctions of driveways and streets. Clear vision areas must be free of visual obstructions (e.g. structures, walls, fences, and vegetation) higher than three feet and lower than eight feet above the street pavement.
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| The size and extent of the clear vision area shall be determined according to the latest revision of the AASHTO - Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (Green Book). |  |
Required Clear Vision Sight Distance
The required clear vision sight distance is as follows:
Intersection Sight Distance
Posted |
Number of Lanes (every 10' of median equals 1 lane up to 20') | ||||||
Speed Limit |
2 (28'-30') |
3 (36') |
4 (40'-44') |
5 (62') |
6 (72') |
7 (84') |
8 (96') |
30 mph |
335' |
355' |
355' |
375' |
375' |
400' |
400' |
35 mph |
390' |
415' |
415' |
440' |
440' |
465' |
465' |
40 mph |
445' |
470' |
470' |
500' |
500' |
530' |
530' |
45 mph |
500' |
530' |
530' |
565' |
565' |
595' |
595' |
For more information, please refer to Chapter 9 of the AASHTO Green Book.
How to Request an Assessment
If you feel a particular intersection has a visual obstruction, the location can be reported to Code Compliance for their assessment by calling 311. If the location is found to be in violation of City Code, the property owner will be contacted to correct the situation.
What You Can Do
If you live near a street corner, always maintain vegetation on your property so that it is no taller than three feet or hangs down below eight feet from the street pavement.
If you are building a wall, fence or structure on your property, be sure to obtain a permit through the Development Services Department.
