§ 20-1072. Landscaping.

(a)

Where natural or existing topographic patterns contribute to the beauty or utility of a development, they shall be preserved to the greatest extent possible. Modification to topography will be permitted where and to the extent that it contributes to good design. All topographic modifications shall adhere to the practices delineated in the city's surface water management plan.

(b)

The grades of all walks, parking spaces, terraces, and other paved areas shall conform with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. In addition, they shall provide an inviting and stable appearance for walking. Stairs and ramps may be substituted for slanted pavement when necessary.

(c)

All landscape shall preserve and enhance natural features (such as wetlands, drainage ways, mature stands of trees, and the like), enhance architectural features, strengthen vistas and important axes, and provide shade.

(d)

Landscaping shall emphasize massing of plant materials over isolated or scattered placement of individual specimens. Reforestation as prescribed by the city's tree preservation and reforestation ordinance is encouraged.

(e)

Unity of design shall be achieved by repetition of certain plant varieties and other materials, and by correlation with natural existing materials and adjacent developments where appropriate.

Unity of Design

(f)

Plant material shall be selected for interest in its structure, texture and color, and for its ultimate growth size. Plants that are indigenous to the area and others that will be hardy, harmonious to the design of good appearance, and of relatively easy maintenance shall be used.

(g)

In locations where plants will be susceptible to injury by pedestrian or motor traffic, they shall be protected by appropriate curbs, tree guards, or similar devices.

Tree Diagram

(h)

Where building sites limit planting, the placement of trees in parkways, gardens, or paved areas is encouraged. Trees should be clustered whenever possible, and consideration shall be given to the special needs of plants surrounded by impervious surfaces. In these instances, preference is given to surrounding plantings with pervious pavement to allow for the infiltration of stormwater into the root zone.

Tree Placement

(i)

In areas where general planting will not prosper, other solutions—such as fences, walls, rock gardens, raised planters, or paving of wood, brick stone, gravel, or cobbles—shall be used. Carefully selected plants shall be included.

Rock Gardens

(j)

Landscaping and tree removal shall be consistent with article XXV in the City Code.

(Ord. No. 327, § 1, 9-24-01; Ord. No. 452, § 3, 7-9-07; Ord. No. 628, § 45, 12-11-17)