(A) Any parcel of land subject to this article shall not be graded unless such grading is specifically shown on an approved final development plan. Grading shall be planned so that it blends into the natural landscape of the site and lessens any associated negative visual impacts from such grading. The use of 2:1 slopes shall be avoided, as shall the use of benches. Where allowed, 2:1 slopes and benches shall be of limited height and designed so that they are situated and/or screened by structures to minimize visibility from public rights-of-way and off-site properties. While mass grading is generally prohibited, the grading of less significant land forms is allowable, as is the grading of more significant natural features, provided such modifications will result in an improvement of the overall project and are in keeping with the overall intent of this article.
(B) In steeper areas and areas of greater visibility, grading should generally be limited to that portion of the site required for the structure and limited associated outdoor area. The use of retaining walls, terracing, platform structures, and stepped or post and beam construction shall be used to minimize the impacts of grading on steeper slopes. In areas of lesser slopes, limited padding may be allowed where it could provide for the clustering of development and would otherwise promote the intent of this article.
(C) Grading plans shall be reviewed to ensure that any land form modifications will not adversely impact adjacent property owners and that proposed grading will be able to blend into any existing and future development on adjacent parcels.
(Ord. 897-C-S, passed 10-25-94) Penalty, see § 9-5.2904