9658.3. - Landscape standards.

Proposed plant materials shall relate to architectural design elements of the structures on the site and shall be compatible with the character of adjacent landscaping, provided the quality of the adjacent landscaping meets the standards set forth in this section. The following landscape standards for permanent landscaping are minimum requirements.

A.

Minimum site coverage. Landscape percentages shall be computed on the basis of the net project site area which includes the area of all structures, drives, walks, and parking on the site, but not areas dedicated for public right-of-way. The required percentages of landscaping relative to site area are set forth in the provisions relating to each land use district.

B.

Minimum planter width. Landscaped areas shall be a minimum of four (4) feet wide (including curbs).

C.

Perimeter planting. The area within required setbacks of commercial or business projects, not used for other permitted purposes, shall be landscaped.

D.

Parking areas. The landscape requirements for parking lots are set forth in the provisions relating to offstreet parking.

E.

Screening. Landscaping should be used to screen storage areas, trash enclosures, parking areas, public utilities, and other similar land uses or elements which do not contribute to the aesthetic enhancement of

the surrounding areas. Landscape screening shall be of a height and density so that it provides the desired effect within five (5) years growing time.

F.

Street trees. Street trees may be required as a condition of any permit granted or issued under this article. No street tree will be approved for planting where its growth will cause interference, obstruction, damage, or injury (either directly or indirectly) to the use of a sidewalk or street right-of-way. Street trees shall be planted according to the following standards:

1.

Trees shall not be planted within thirty (30) feet of the curb return of a street intersection.

2.

Trees shall not be planted closer than four (4) feet from any public walkway or public sidewalk, except where tree wells or parkways are provided in the sidewalk area.

3.

Trees shall not be located closer than ten (10) feet from any driveway, utility pole, fire plug or to the rear of any street or directional sign; fifteen (15) feet from light standards, and twenty-five (25) feet from the front of any traffic or directional sign.

4.

Trees shall be spaced an average of forty (40) feet apart, but not less than one (1) per lot and two (2) per corner lots.

5.

Trees that typically grow taller than twenty (20) feet in height shall not be encouraged under utility wires.