About
Atop Emerald Hills, a rolling landscape is dotted with tall, proud oaks, and some of the most outstanding views of everything from Crystal Springs Reservoir to Woodside, and Redwood City, to the fog that slowly creeps over the Santa Cruz Mountains. During World War I, this neighborhood was considered to be an ideal resort town, specifically because of the beauty and stunning vistas.
Woodside, Redwood City, and unincorporated San Mateo County are the three jurisdictions that divide the neighborhood of Emerald Hills. As such, Emerald Hills is a markedly diverse community with varying regulations. For instance, sewage systems vary in Emerald Hills depending on jurisdiction. Woodside runs on a septic system while the others use sewers. As a result, this affects the overall housing density. In addition, different zoning regulations and building codes also apply, depending on an address within a jurisdiction. Lot sizes in Emerald Hills vary from one-half to a full acre, and the neighborhood mixes modest-sized homes with new, multi-million-dollar residences.
Nevertheless, Emerald Hills retains its natural beauty with horses grazing on properties, and intertwined streets wrapping around the hills. Perhaps one of the most distinctive traditions to this neighborhood is the 94-foot-high white Easter Cross. Perched atop its hill, the Easter Cross can be seen from a far distance. Additionally, two lakes on the Redwood City side of Emerald Hills offer spectacular views and provide some residents an exclusive getaway for fun water entertainment.
