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ORDINANCE NO. 427 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS ADDING CHAPTER 9 TO TITLE 5 OF LOS ALTOS HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING VIEW AND SUNLIGHT OBSTRUCTIONS Whereas,the purposes of this Chapter are to: 1. Establish the right of persons to preserve views or sunlight, which existed at any time since they purchased the property or up to 15 years prior to adoption of this ordinance whichever is'less, from unreasonable obstruction by the growth of trees. 2. Establish a process by which persons may seek restoration of such views or sunlight when unreasonably obstructed by the growth of trees or other vegetation. NOW, THEREFORE,the City Council of the Town of Los Altos Hills does ORDAIN as follows: I. Chapter 9 is hereby added to Title 5 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code to read as follows: Chapter 9: VIEW AND SUNLIGHT OBSTRUCTION FROM TREES Section 5-9.01. Purpose and Principles. The rights and the restorative process are based upon the following general principles: 1. The Town recognizes that'residents cherish their outward views from the hills, and that they also cherish the benefits of plentiful sunlight reaching their buildings and yards. The Town recognizes that both outward views and plentiful sunlight reaching property contribute greatly to the quality of life in Los Altos Hills, and promote the general welfare of the entire community. 2. The Town also recognizes the desire of many of its residents, property owners, and institutions for beautiful and plentiful landscaping, including trees. The Town realizes that this desire may sometimes conflict with the preservation of views and sunlight, and that disputes related to view or sunlight obstruction are inevitable. 3. Owners and residents should maintain trees on their property in a healthy condition for both safety reasons and for preservation of sunlight and outward views. Before planting trees, owners and residents should consider view and 630591-1