PURPOSE

  1. To enable landscaping and hardscaping treatments that maintain the characteristics of mixed-use neighborhoods.
  2. To minimize soil erosion and protect water quality.
  3. To minimize conflicts between landscaping and areas that require easy and safe human access.

APPLICABILITY

  1. Commercial properties
  2. Frontage zones in all districts
  3. Parking lots
  4. Civic spaces

DESIGN & INSTALLATION

  1. On commercial properties, landscaping must consist primarily of native species requiring minimal irrigation, fertilization, and maintenance. Planting must be cold hardy, drought tolerant, and able to survive on natural rainfall once established with no loss of health.
  2. Plant materials must be installed in soil of sufficient volume, composition, and nutrient balance to sustain healthy growth.
  3. Plant materials installed adjacent to thoroughfares that are plowed and typically receive seasonal salt treatment should be non-woody and salt-tolerant to ensure survival.
  4. Slopes which currently or are in danger of erosion should receive an erosion-mitigating treatment such as planting of densely-rooted vegetation suitable for its site condition, terracing of the landscape with retaining structures and planting, or similar solution, especially when abutting natural water, located on municipal sewer, or where the slops of the land causes water to cross property boundaries.
  5. Artificial plants and artificial turf are prohibited, excluding active recreation sports fields that are subject to intense use.
  6. All portions of a lot not occupied by a building or impervious surface must be planted with living vegetation, such as grass, groundcover, plants, shrubs, or trees.
  7. Areas which do not require landscape improvements include:
    1. Land area dedicated to agricultural activities.
    2. Naturally occurring stream beds, rock outcroppings, and similar natural features typically lacking in vegetation.
    3. Recreation fields and facilities.
    4. Water features.
  8. Permitted non-vegetative groundcovers include: rock or gravel, wood chips, bark, or other non-living material typically used in landscaping.
  9. Ground vegetation or shrub plantings with spines, thorns, or needles that may present hazards to pedestrians or cyclists are prohibited within 2 feet of any front lot line.
  10. Within 3 feet of any fire protection system or when underground or overhead utility or drainage easements are present, ground cover less than 6 inches in height must be planted, unless other plantings are expressively permitted by the utility provider, easement holder, and the municipality.