A. General Provisions:
1. Purpose And Intent: This section is intended to provide uniform standards for the development and maintenance of landscaping of private residential properties.
The town recognizes that landscaping can be a significant expense to residents. At the same time, landscaping improves the livability of residential neighborhoods, increases property values, contributes to the image and appeal of the overall community, controls soil erosion and can reduce air and noise pollution. The intent is for these individuals to develop and maintain their property in a manner they prefer and for the right of town residents to live and recreate in pleasant and attractive surroundings.
2. Objectives: Landscaping shall mitigate the visual harshness and summer heat gain within open areas, screen objectionable and higher intensity uses from lower intensity uses, enhance the appearances of structures and enhance the appearance of the town.
B. Definitions: General definitions are as found in section 8-2-1 of this title.
LANDSCAPING: Any combination of living plants, such as trees, shrubs, vines, ground cover, flowers or grass; natural features such as rock, stone, bark chips or shavings; and structural features, including, but not limited to, fountains, reflecting pools, outdoor artwork, screen walls, fences or benches.
C. General Requirements: "Landscaping", as defined in this section, is required for all new buildings and additions over five hundred (500) square feet. Said landscaping shall be completed within one year from the date of occupancy of the building and shall adhere to the following regulations:
1. Yards:
a. Front Yards: Front yards required by this code shall be completely landscaped, except for those areas occupied by access driveways, walls, and structures.
b. Street-Side Side Yards: All street-side side yards shall be completely landscaped, except for those areas occupied by utilities, access driveways, walls, or structures.
2. Maintenance: All live landscaping required by this code shall be properly maintained. All dead or dying landscaping shall be replaced within one growing season and all sodded areas mowed, fertilized, and irrigated on a regular basis. (Ord. 2012-1, 4-17-2012)