§ 1285.01. INTENT.

(a)

The intent of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety and welfare by establishing minimum standards for the design, installation and maintenance of landscaping in parking lots, as buffer zones between uses, along roadways and adjacent to buildings. Landscaping is viewed as a critical element contributing to the aesthetics, development, quality, stability of property values and the overall character of the City. The standards of this chapter shall apply to all projects subject to site plan review.

(b)

The standards of this chapter are intended to help achieve a number of aesthetic, functional and environmental objectives, such as to:

(1)

Promote implementation of the City's Comprehensive Plan and Vision Study;

(2)

Provide incentives to preserve quality mature trees rather than planting new but smaller trees;

(3)

Screen headlights to reduce glare and accident potential;

(4)

Integrate various elements of a site;

(5)

Blend inharmonious land uses;

(6)

Screen or filter views between incompatible land uses;

(7)

Help define and separate or unify, as appropriate, various site elements;

(8)

Control soil erosion by slowing the effects of erosive winds or water;

(9)

Moderate harsh or unpleasant sounds;

(10)

Remove air pollutants;

(11)

Control glare and reflection;

(12)

Slow the effects of erosion and stormwater runoff to help prevent flooding;

(13)

Assist in directing safe and efficient traffic flow at driveways and within parking lots;

(14)

Ensure adequate sight distance;

(15)

Ensure sufficient access to fire hydrants;

(16)

Distinguish and separate vehicular and pedestrian circulation;

(17)

Block, divert or channel winds;

(18)

Moderate the effects of climate and to create a more desirable microclimate; and

(19)

Provide reasonable standards to gradually bring into compliance developed sites which existed prior to the adoption of these standards in relation to the extent of improvements, expansion or changes in use.

(c)

The landscape standards of this chapter are considered the minimum necessary to achieve the objectives noted above. In several instances, the standards are intentionally flexible to encourage flexibility and creative design. Applicants are encouraged to provide additional landscaping to improve the function, appearance and value of their property.

(Ord. 266. Passed 6-10-96.)