It is the objective of this section to provide landscaping standards tailored to distinct geographic areas of the city to ensure that the type, quantity, and size of required material is commensurate with the type, intensity, scale, and location of new development and particularly consistent with vehicular movement, streetscape design, pedestrian habits and routes, and design relationship between projects. The intent of these standards is to promote a landscape design pattern that is functional, practical, equitable, and creative.
A. City-Wide Standards. The following standards shall apply to all properties in the city, except for those exempted in Section 1.E. of this article:
1. Native and Drought Tolerant Species. Plant materials to be used are limited to those classified as "low" and "medium" in the publication "Waterwise South Florida Landscapes," published by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). The maximum extent possible, plant selection should emphasize waterwise or Florida-Friendly plants.
2. Prohibited Species. Plants classified as a Category I species on the current prohibited list published by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) is not allowed within the city. The initial eradication and ongoing removal of prohibited plant species that have become nuisances because of their tendency to disrupt or destroy native ecosystems is promoted herein.
3. Plant Material. All plant materials used in conformance with provisions of this article shall conform to the Standards for Florida No. 1 or better as given in "Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants", State of Florida, Department of Agriculture, Tallahassee, or equal thereto. Sod shall be clean and reasonably free of weeds and noxious pests or diseases.
a. Trees. The caliper of all trees, except for palms and those trees classified as a development's "signature tree" (see subparagraph (1) below) shall be a minimum of four (4) inches at the time of installation. The caliper shall be measured no higher than six (6) inches above the ground. No minimum caliper size is required for palm trees. However, palm trees shall have a minimum of six (6) feet of clear wood at the time of planting.
(1) Signature Tree. A signature tree shall be installed at both sides of a development's entrance (ingress). The caliper of a development's signature tree shall be a minimum of one (1) inch at the time of installation. Signature trees, if sized with a caliper of less than four (4) inches at the time of installation, cannot count toward meeting the minimum number of trees required on-site. Signature trees include the following species:
(a) Yellow Elder (Tecoma stans);
(b) Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea);
(c) Glaucous Cassia; (Cassia surattensis); and
(d) Orange or White Geiger (Cordia sebestena or boissieri).
(2) Species. The minimum number of different species of trees provided shall be as follows:
(a) Table 4-2 Tree Species;
Number of Trees Provided | Number of Required Tree Species |
1-5 | 1 |
6-10 | 2 |
11-30 | 3 |
31-60 | 4 |
61-100 | 5 |
101 and over | 6 |
(b) Signature trees, if sized with a caliper of four (4) inches or greater at the time of installation, may count towards meeting the minimum number of required species of trees. The caliper shall be measured no higher than six (6) inches above the ground; and
(c) Small and medium palm species, in a cluster of three (3) trees with varying heights, shall represent the equivalent of one (1) canopy tree or large palm tree. For the purposes of this subsection, large palm trees are those species, such as Florida Royal, Canary Island Date, or any other palm species determined by staff that has the same visual/shading effect as that of a canopy tree.
(d) No more than 50% of required trees on a lot within commercial or mixed-use zoning districts shall be comprised of palm species.
b. Shrubs and Hedges. Shrubs and hedges shall be planted a minimum of twenty-four (24) inches in height, twenty-four (24) inches in spread with tip-to-tip spacing measured immediately after planting to form a continuous opaque landscape barrier within one (1) year. The minimum hedge height may be reduced to eighteen (18) inches if planted in conjunction with a berm where the minimum combined height is thirty-six (36) inches.
c. Vines. Vines shall be a minimum of two (2) feet in height, spaced five (5) feet apart immediately after planting. Vines may be used in conjunction with fences, screens and/or walls to contribute towards meeting physical screening requirements as specified.
d. Lawn. While sod/turf areas have practical benefits in a landscape, the magnitude and location of the sod in a project represents the majority of a site's irrigation needs. Irrigated sod/turf areas, as opposed to non-irrigated sod/turf areas are considered to be a high water use (hydrozone). Therefore, in all developments, including public and private parks, the use of sod/turf shall be restricted to park and open space areas intended for passive or active recreation purposes or when required for drainage and stormwater management (e.g., swales, retention, detention areas) when the use of other drought tolerant surface materials is not feasible. Sod/turf shall be installed such that it can be irrigated using separate zones. The intent is to promote sustainable landscaping design by reducing water consumption and unnecessary irrigation of small, strip, or remnant surfaces on a site. The use of drought tolerant plant material is preferred over the use of sod for those areas of a site.
4. Existing Plant Material. Existing healthy plant material, in part or in whole, may count toward required plant material if such use furthers the objectives of this article regarding preservation, water conservation, and beautification.
5. Water Source. To conserve water, potable water is not to be used for irrigation purposes. Instead, alternative sources of water shall be used for irrigating landscaping materials such as well water, lakes, and/or reclaimed water where available and to be used in compliance with city and county regulations. Where ground water is not available of the quality necessary for irrigation purposes, and other preferable sources are not available, potable may be used in accordance with the following requirements:
a. Approval is obtained from the Department of Utilities;
b. The site irrigation system must be designed to only use a restricted number of gallons per month (water bill);
c. The site irrigation system must be designed to automatically remove all established trees off watering at the end of year one (1);
d. The site irrigation system must be designed for simple removal of all established trees on separate zones from watering at the end of the first year;
e. All trees, shrubs, and plants (no sod) used in the site landscape design must be identified as having low watering needs in the South Florida Water Management District's "Waterwise" publication; and
f. Landscape and irrigation improvements must be inspected annually for compliance with these requirements.
6. Irrigation. All landscaped areas shall be provided with an automatic water supply system as approved through a land development permit (see Chapter 2, Article III, Section 3). Irrigation systems shall be designed as follows:
a. To provide the minimal water volume based on the particular watering needs of individual plant species;
b. To consider soil, slope, and other site characteristics in order to minimize water waste, including overspray, the watering of impervious surfaces and other non-vegetative areas, and off-site runoff;
c. To minimize free flow conditions in case of damage or other mechanical failure;
d. To use the lowest quality water feasible. Reused water may be required in accordance with Chapter 26, Article VIII of Part II City Code of Ordinances if a main supply is within five hundred (500) feet of the site and permitted by the Palm Beach County Health Department;
e. To include rain switches and other approved devices, such as soil moisture sensor controllers to prevent unnecessary irrigation;
f. A recommended season operating schedule and average precipitation rates for each irrigation zone for both establishment and maintenance conditions shall be provided by the system controller;
g. Provide the following minimum capabilities:
(1) Programmable in minutes, by day of week, season, and time of day;
(2) Ability to accommodate multiple start times and programs;
(3) Automatic shutoff after adequate rainfall;
(4) Ability to maintain time during power outages for a minimum of three (3) days; and
(5) Operational flexibility to meet applicable year-round water conservation requirements and temporary water shortage restrictions.
h. Precipitation rates for sprinklers and all other emitters in the same zone shall be matched, except that micoirrigation emitters may be specified to meet the requirements of the individual plants;
i. To consider factors that maximizes uniformity such as;
(1) Emitter types;
(2) Head spacing;
(3) Sprinkler pattern; and
(4) Water pressure at the emitter.
j. To correlate to the organization of each hydrozone. All plants requiring watering during establishment. Temporary facilities may be installed to facilitate establishment. Irrigation must be conducted in accordance with restrictions imposed by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD):
k. To avoid irrigation during periods of sufficient soil moisture, automatic shut-off equipment with sensing devices shall be required and used:
l. If the water supply for the irrigation system is from a well, a constant pressure flow control device or pressure tank with adequate capacity shall be required to minimize pump "cycling," if there is a pressure switch in the design;
m. Check valves must be installed at irrigation heads as needed to prevent low head drainage and puddling:
n. Nozzle precipitation rates for all heads within each valve circuit must be matched to within twenty percent (20%) of one (1) another;
o. No water spray from irrigation systems shall be applied under roof overhangs; and
p. Irrigated areas shall not be less than four (4) feet wide, except when next to contiguous property or using micro, drip, or spray irrigation.
q. A regular irrigation maintenance schedule shall include but not be limited to checking, adjusting, and repairing irrigation equipment; and resetting the automatic controller according to the season and inspected by the city.
r. To maintain the original performance and design integrity of the irrigation system, repair of the equipment shall be done with the originally specified materials or their equivalents.
7. Installation. All landscaping shall be installed in accordance with a land development permit and in a competent manner according to certified planting procedures with the quality of plant materials as hereinafter described. (All elements of landscaping shall be installed so as to meet all other applicable ordinances and code requirements).
a. Vehicular Encroachment. Landscaped areas shall require protection from vehicular encroachment by wheel stops, curbs, and/or decorative bollards. All landscaped areas with trees adjacent to sidewalks or vehicular use areas may require the use of root deflector products to prevent damage from root growth. All landscape areas containing trees and vegetation shall be first filled with city inspected clean fill (soil).
b. Clean Fill. All planted areas on the site shall first be filled with clean fill to a depth of one (1) foot from the surface along the entire length of the green space, island, or landscape buffer.
c. Inspection. The city shall inspect all clean fill, irrigation systems, and landscape improvements prior to installation. No temporary certificate of occupancy will be issued until the clean fill, irrigation, and landscaping improvements meet the requirements provided herein or the applicant submits surety for one hundred ten percent (110%) of the value of the incomplete clean fill/landscape/irrigation improvements. Surety will be released upon completion and inspection of incomplete improvements.
8. Mulch (Non-living Plantings). Mulch applied and maintained at appropriate depths promotes moisture retention, reduces weed growth, and prevents erosion. Mulch can be used in places where conditions are inadequate for or not conducive to growing quality ground covers. Mulches are typically wood bark chips, wood grindings. pine straws, nut shells, small gravel, and shredded landscape clippings. Planting areas, including those around individual trees shall be mulched to a minimum depth of three (3) inches at the time of inspection and maintained at this depth thereafter. Use of byproduct or recycled mulch is recommended; however, in no instance is cypress mulch allowed. All mulch material shall be free of seeds and weeds to prevent tree sprouting and regrowth. Plastic sheeting and other impervious materials shall not be used under mulched areas. Mulches should be kept at least six (6) inches away from any portion of a building or structure, or the trunks of trees.
9. Upland Buffer/Littoral Plantings. Lake and retention areas in excess of one-half (½) acre shall be planted to create a habitat that provides the optimal environment for upland and/or aquatic species. Lakes, ponds, and retention areas provided for new construction or major modifications of existing projects shall be planted as follows:
a. To occupy a minimum of fifty percent (50%) of lake perimeter with littoral plantings;
b. To occupy a minimum of fifty percent (50%) of lake perimeter with upland plantings contiguous with the littoral plantings;
c. To consist of a minimum of ten (10) square feet of littoral shelf per one (1) linear foot of shoreline, using five (5) different native plant species (littoral plantings);
d. To consist of a minimum of one (1) native tree, twenty-five (25) native shrubs using two (2) species, and ten (10) native ferns and groundcover plant species (upland plantings); and
e. All vegetation installed contiguous, at a minimum of three to one (3:1) slope, one hundred percent (100%) appropriate native vegetation, installed with proper spacing for full coverage of littoral shelf areas within one (1) year. All littoral and upland plantings established consistent with these standards shall be installed, maintained, and reported quarterly to the Director of Planning and Zoning or designee for a period of two (2) years by a natural areas certified contractor in accordance with a management plan approved by the city at the time of site plan approval or permitting.
10. Landscaping within Easements. All easement locations and specific types of easement shall be identified on the landscape plan. Easements may overlap a required landscape strip or perimeter buffer by a maximum of five (5) feet. However, detention/retention areas, drainage easements, and sloped directional swales greater than one (1) foot below finished grade, shall not be located in or overlap required landscaped areas, unless otherwise approved in writing by the City Engineer and the Director of Development, or their designee. Where the conflict between easements and landscape strips or perimeter buffers is unavoidable, the strips and buffers may be separated from the property boundary by the easement, if all requirements and objectives for screening/buffering are met. Shrub and tree selections shall be based on root characteristics and size restrictions as described in "Waterwise", a publication of the South Florida Water Management District, and in "Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place," as published by the Florida Power & Light Company.
a. All trees planted in or in close proximity to an easement shall be installed consistent with the Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards for Landscaping, Irrigation, and Lighting.
b. Landscape strips and buffers shall be required to extend a minimum of five (5) feet beyond the easement for planting the largest canopy tree possible as allowed by FPL and city standards. If a buffer wall with a continuous footer is used, a minimum of ten (10) feet outside of the easement for planting is required.
c. The abutting easement shall be entirely planted with shrubs and trees according to a design similar to the adjoining or overlapping landscape strip or buffer.
d. Roots and branches of trees shall not impact existing underground or overhead utilities and infrastructure. Trees planted in close proximity to easements shall be the largest possible and selected to avoid aggressive root systems. Root barriers shall be required to protect nearby underground infrastructure and parking lots and curbing.
e. Trees shall be maintained so that the mature tree canopy is a minimum of ten (10) feet from overhead lines.
11. Landscaping within Rights-of-Way.
a. General. Landscaping may be planted within public rights-of-way, subject to review and approval of the Forestry and Grounds Manager. No person may plant, remove, destroy, prune, set out, break, cut, deface or in any way injure or interfere with any tree, shrub, or similar plant on any street or alley, or upon property owned or maintained by the city, without first obtaining a public right-of-way permit pursuant to Chapter 2, Article III, Section 4.
b. Relief from Standards. Any deviation from the standards of this subparagraph would require a waiver, which is subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. A request for a waiver shall be reviewed in accordance with Chapter 2, Article III, Section 5.
c. Standards. Limited non-invasive planting may be allowed in swales and/or rights-of-way subject to the following conditions:
(1) Sod may be placed in public swale areas provided that such sod or grass is not permitted to grow to a height in excess of six (6) inches;
(2) Trees may be permitted within swale areas and medians but must be high enough so as to provide an eight (8)-foot clearance between the lowest hanging branch or leaf and the existing grade;
(3) All landscape work within the public right-of-way shall be consistent with Florida Department of Transportation and Palm Beach County regulations, where applicable, and must conform to the latest edition of the Public Works Department Forestry and Grounds Manual and the Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards for Landscaping, Irrigation & Lighting (Volume II) or latest supplement thereof;
(4) Planting cannot significantly interfere with maintenance of existing utilities;
(5) If planting is allowed and installed within swales and/or rights-of-way, the adjacent property owner assumes total responsibility for repairing/ restoring the swale/right-of-way to its original condition if the swale/right-of-way is disturbed for installation and/or repair of utilities either already in place or constructed in the future. The property owner also assumes the maintenance responsibility for the swale/right-of-way.
(6) Also see Section 4.B.5. below for additional "streetscape design" requirements.
12. Landscaping within Off-Street Parking Lots. The intent of this subsection is to encourage landscape design that will facilitate the optimal growth of hardy trees, prevent future damage to off-street parking areas from tree root systems, and to enhance and screen off-street parking areas. Off-street parking and vehicular use areas shall include landscape islands designed as follows:
a. Required Landscaping. Off-street parking areas, excluding those spaces located within parking garages, shall have at least twenty-five (25) square feet of parking lot landscape islands (e.g., green space) per parking space, including those on-street parking spaces allowed in accordance with Chapter 4, Article V, Section 4.C.;
b. Tree Size and Type. Parking lot landscape islands shall be designed to correspond with the size and growing characteristics of the intended tree species. Types of required trees exclude palm species, and tree sizes proposed within each island shall directly correspond with the size descriptions included in the South Florida Water Management District publication, "Waterwise";
c. Large Islands. Landscape islands sized greater than two hundred twenty-four (224) square feet in area are defined as "large islands" and shall not be less than fifteen (15) feet in width in any dimension. Each large island shall contain a minimum of one (1) tree, classified as a large tree (see paragraph b. above for description of a large tree). A minimum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the landscape islands shall be large islands within developments that are required to have up to two hundred forty-nine (249) parking spaces. A minimum of eighty-five percent (85%) of the landscape islands shall be large islands within developments that are required to provide two hundred fifty (250) or more parking spaces;
d. Small Islands. The remaining required green space within off-street parking areas shall be allocated to "small islands", which are defined as landscape islands sized at least one hundred fifty (150) square feet in area and no less than ten (10) feet in width in any dimension. Each small island shall contain one (1) tree classified as a "small" tree;
e. Plantings. All landscape islands shall be entirely planted with shrub species;
f. Cross Visibility. All plant material proposed within each landscape island shall maintain unobstructed cross-visibility at a level between thirty (30) inches and eight (8) feet above pavement to avoid traffic hazards. Canopy or palm trees shall not have limbs and/or foliage that extend into this cross-visibility area. Plant selection should be based on the growing characteristics as described in the publication "Waterwise" to best conform to the visibility requirements stated above and to allow for proper maintenance without degrading the quality and appearance of established plant species; and
g. Lighting. Lighting fixtures within off-street parking areas shall be strategically located to avoid future conflicts with mature tree canopies.
h. Entrances/Exits. Design emphasis shall be given to the entrances and exits to parking areas through the use of landscaping unless otherwise determined by staff to be contrary to the design objectives and principles of this article and/or Chapter 4, Article III.
13. Maintenance.
a. General. The property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance of all irrigation and landscaping which shall be maintained in a certified condition so as to present a healthy, neat, and orderly appearance free from refuse and debris. All newly landscaped properties shall receive an initial clean fill/landscape/irrigation inspection and thereafter a semi-annual inspection for compliance with these Regulations. All conflicts between landscape improvements and site signage, parking lot light fixtures, or vehicular safety movements will be corrected as part of the semi-annual inspection process.
b. International Arborist Association (IAA) Standards. All plantings, including trees, must not be trimmed or sheared of foliage during the first growing year and must be maintained to continue the buffering/screening objective of these Regulations. All existing and newly installed trees must be trimmed under the supervision of a certified arborist in accordance with the standards of the International Arborist Association (IAA). All existing and newly installed materials not pruned in accordance with the IAA standards must be removed and replaced on the site. The total diameter inches of the new trees must equal the total number of diameter inches of the improperly pruned tree(s). Any trees removed in violation with these Regulations will be replaced in compliance with this section. Site maintenance shall not alter screening or barrier below the intended requirements of these Regulations.
c. Appearance and Maintenance. Also see City Code of Ordinances Part II, Chapter 15, Article IX, Section 15-120 for minimum standards regarding general appearance and maintenance of landscaping on public and private property.
14. Cross-Visibility and Safe-Sight. The purpose of this subparagraph is to promote the creative and efficient design of landscaped areas within off-street parking areas and other vehicular use areas, or near rights-of-way. The intent is to create functional and quality pervious surfaces for drainage/storm water management, in conjunction with increasing the visual enhancement of off-street parking areas. Landscape design shall provide safe and unobstructed views for pedestrians and motorists moving throughout the project:
a. Visibility at Corners of Rights-of-Way. Landscape material, within a triangular-shaped area of property formed by the intersection of two (2) rights-of-way, shall maintain unobstructed cross-visibility at a level between thirty (30) inches and eight (8) feet above the pavement to avoid traffic hazards pursuant to Chapter 4, Article VIII, Section 3.C.4.u. Canopy or palm trees shall not have limbs and/or foliage that extend into this cross-visibility area. Landscape material, except low growing shrubs, shall be located at least three (3) feet from the edge of a sidewalk. The size of this triangular-shaped area shall be designed in accordance with the Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards.
b. Driveway Openings along Rights-of-Way. Landscaping on both sides of each project entrance along rights-of-way shall contain a signature tree in accordance with Section 4.A.3.a.(1) above and a minimum of two (2) colorful and/or flowering shrub species (three (3) different species if sufficient space is available). Design emphasis shall be placed on clear understory and low-growing or dwarf varieties of landscape material with a maximum height of thirty (30) inches, in order to comply with visual obstruction regulations (see Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards and Chapter 4, Article VIII, Section 3.C.4.u.). The plant material required in this subparagraph may also count towards meeting the minimum requirements for landscape strips abutting rights-of-way (see Section 4.B.2. and Section 4.C.2. below).
c. Driveway Openings (and Cross-Access) Between Properties. Landscaping on each side of a driveway opening that connects abutting properties shall be designed with an emphasis on clear understory with low-growing or dwarf varieties of plant material. All plant material proposed shall maintain unobstructed cross-visibility at a level between thirty (30) inches and eight (8) feet above pavement. Canopy or palm trees shall be trimmed up eight (8) feet so that limbs and/or foliage does not create a traffic hazard.
15. Raised Planters. Raised planters shall be allowed, contingent upon the following:
a. A minimum setback of three (3) feet is required from all property lines;
b. No planter shall exceed a maximum height of six (6) feet;
c. All planters shall contain clean fill; and
d. Planters shall be located to comply with cross-visibility and safe sight regulations of Section 3.A.14. above.
16. Maximum Height of Hedges. The maximum height of hedges shall be eight (8) feet above finished grade, except as described below:
a. Multi-Family and Townhouse Developments. Hedges shall be a maximum of six (6) feet in height when located within landscape strips abutting rights-of-way for all developments that have less than four hundred (400) feet of frontage on typical city streets. However, the maximum height of hedges (located within the landscape strip abutting rights-of-way) may be increased to eight (8) feet when in compliance with the following:
(1) The street frontage of the development is at least four hundred (400) feet in length;
(2) The development has no more than one (1) parking lot driveway opening or access point along said street frontage; and
(3) The placement of the hedge shall not cause any traffic line-of-sight obstruction and must comply with the visibility requirements of Chapter 4, Article VIII, Section 3.C.4.u., "Visual Obstructions of Intersections".
b. Miscellaneous. Where adjacent to golf courses, golf driving ranges, Interstate 95, railroad rights-of-way, along property lines where residential abuts commercial or industrial uses, and along property lines where residential abuts parks (public or private): ten (10) feet, other than within the front yard setback.
17. Soils. Existing horticulturally suitable topsoil shall be stockpiled to be equal to two times (2x) the amount of top soil needed for that particular site, and re-spread during final site grading. Any new soil required shall be similar to the existing soil in pH, texture, permeability, and other characteristic, unless convincing evidence is provided that a different type of soil amendment is justified. The use of solid waste compost as a soil amendment is encouraged where it is appropriate.
18. Pesticides. When using pesticides, all label instructions of federal and state law must be adhered to.
19. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). See Chapter 4, Article III, Section 5.B. for additional regulations regarding landscaping and CPTED guidelines.
20. Non-Conforming Lots. All developed or redeveloped lots zoned M-1 or C-4 and determined to be valid nonconforming lots relative to minimum lot area standards shall provide landscaping on-site that meets the intent of the urban landscape code of Section 4.B below to the maximum extent feasible.
B. Urban Landscape Code.
1. General.
a. Applicability. The "urban landscape code" shall apply to all properties currently zoned central business district (CBD), any properties located within the mixed use (urban) districts (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 5), the infill planned unit development (IPUD) district (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 2.G.), or any commercially-zoned properties located within the Urban Commercial District Overlay Zone (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 8). All developed or redeveloped lots zoned M-1 or C-4 and determined to be valid nonconforming lots relative to minimum lot area standards shall provide landscaping on-site that meets the intent of the urban landscape code to the maximum extent feasible.
b. General Rules. Properties which are not subject to the urban landscape code shall be regulated in accordance with the "suburban landscape code," pursuant to Section 4.C. below.
2. Landscape Strip Abutting Rights-of-Way. A landscape strip (e.g., planted area) shall be required within the front and side corner yards of a property where it abuts a road right-of-way. The strip shall be removed of all construction debris and backfilled with clean fill to a depth of one (1) foot. The requirements for this strip vary, depending upon the location of buildings, off-street parking, and vehicular use areas. The location of off-street parking lots and vehicular use areas are discouraged within the front and side corner yards. Their preferred locations are behind buildings and structures to allow for screening from public and private streets (see subparagraph c. below). However, there are certain instances where this type of design is impractical or unfeasible. In such circumstances, it is the intent of these Regulations to require a landscape strip that is entirely planted and comprised of two (2) layers, namely an inside and outside portion, designed as follows:
a. Off-Street Parking Areas Abutting Roadways. The landscape strip, intended to screen off-street parking lots located within front and side corner yards, shall be at least seven (7) feet in width and comply with the following:
(1) The inside portion of the landscape strip shall consist of a continuous hedge, installed at a minimum of twenty-four (24) inches in height above finished grade and one (1) tree spaced a maximum of twenty-five (25) feet apart. A berm is optional. Tree spacing may be modified by factors such as the location of utility poles, driveway openings, cross-visibility, and safe-sight requirements. However, tree spacing may be reduced for vehicle-intensive or other unsightly areas;
(2) The remaining outside portion of a landscape strip shall consist of a minimum of three (3) shrub species, two (2) of which shall be flowering species, planted in continuous rows or clusters. Plant selection and planting patterns that optimize the display of plant texture and color are encouraged;
(3) In no case shall vehicles be allowed to protrude into the strip (see Chapter 4, Article VI, Section 3.B.7.); and
(4) Vehicular access points along the abutting right-of-way shall comply with Section 4.A.14.b. above.
(5) See Section 6.J. for additional regulations regarding the required width of the landscape strip abutting the right-of-way for large non-residential (big box) developments.
b. Vehicular Use Areas (Other than Off-Street Parking) Abutting Roadways. The landscape strip intended to screen other vehicular use areas, located within front and side corner yards shall be designed as follows:
(1) Each landscape strip shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in width;
(2) Each landscape strip shall consist of a continuous hedge, installed at a minimum of twenty-four (24) inches in height above finished grade and one (1) tree spaced a maximum of twenty-five (25) feet apart. Tree spacing may be modified by factors such as the location of utility poles, driveway openings, cross-visibility, and safe-sight requirements. However, tree spacing may be reduced for vehicle-intensive or other unsightly areas;
(3) In no case shall vehicles be allowed to encroach or protrude into or over the strip (see Chapter 4, Article VI, Section 3.B.7.); and
(4) Vehicular access points along the abutting rights-of-way shall comply with Section 4.A.14.b. above.
c. Buildings or Structures Abutting Roadways. This subparagraph represents the preferred site design in urban areas where building setbacks are reduced along front and side corner property lines and off-street parking and vehicular use areas are not visible from abutting rights-of-way. In such circumstances, a landscape strip is required but only in the absence of buildings, structures, pedestrian areas, and sidewalks. When a landscape strip is provided, it shall be of varying width and designed as follows:
(1) Foundation landscaping and trees shall be installed within the reduced building setback areas, between the building(s) and property line(s). Tree spacing may be modified by factors such as the location of utility poles, driveway openings, cross-visibility, and safe-sight requirements. However, tree spacing may be reduced for vehicle-intensive or other unsightly areas;
Where practical, areas in front of buildings shall be enhanced with colorful plants or flower containers containing blooming annuals or perennials;
(2) Trees are not required in areas where awnings or canopies encroach or protrude into the landscape strip. However, an alternative means of providing landscaping, such as foundation plantings and/or potted plants shall be required;
(3) Tree species within the landscape strip shall be consistent with the established theme of the street where appropriate. The Planning and Zoning Division shall coordinate with the Engineering Division of Public Works regarding the species, caliper size, and quantity of trees;
(4) Trees and plant material within the landscape strip shall not impede pedestrian movement on nearby sidewalks;
(5) Tree guards, fabricated to city specifications, shall be placed adjacent to the curb, where feasible. Tree guards are to protect street trees (those located within the right-of-way) and trees planted within the landscape strip abutting the right-of-way;
(6) The City Engineer shall review and approve all street trees and plant material proposed within the sidewalk areas of abutting rights-of-way. All plant material shall be installed in accordance with the Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards for Landscaping, Irrigation, and Lighting. Trees normally required within the landscape strip may not be necessary if street trees located within the abutting sidewalk meet the intent of this section; and
(7) See "Streetscape Design" in Section 4.B.5. below for additional regulations.
d. Certificate of Conformity. All lots subject to eminent domain proceedings must provide landscape material within landscape strips abutting rights-of-way in conformance with Chapter 3, Article V, Section 11.G.4.
3. Perimeter Landscape Buffers.
a. General. Perimeter landscape buffers, where required, shall be provided along side interior and rear property lines. The type of landscape buffer required may vary upon the zoning districts, uses, densities, intensities, and building height(s) of the subject property and abutting and/or adjacent property. The requirement for perimeter landscape buffers along front and side corner property lines shall be met through the provision of a "landscape strip" along street rights-of-way pursuant to Section 4.B.2. above.
b. Performance Standards. Required landscape buffers shall meet the following performance standards:
(1) Appropriate screening and buffering will be required.
(2) Such screening must shield neighboring properties from any adverse effects of the proposed development.
(3) Screening and buffering is intended to shield the proposed development from the negative impacts of adjacent uses.
(4) Special emphasis should be placed on screening the intrusion of automobile headlights on neighboring properties from parking areas and driveways.
c. Design Standards. Perimeter landscape buffers shall be applied and designed as follows:
(1) Table 4-3. Urban Landscape Buffer (Type 1).
Urban Landscape Buffer (Type 1)*
| |
Description:
| Required along the perimeter of off-street parking lots where parking areas are not separated from side interior or rear property lines by an intervening building or structure, in order to provide a visual screen of at least three (3) feet in height, comprised of trees, and shrubs. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width of five (5) feet; |
2. One (1) tree spaced every thirty (30) linear feet on center; | |
3. Shrubs planted tip-to-tip to provide a continuous hedge three (3) feet in height; and | |
4. * See (4) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(2) Table 4-4. Urban Landscape Buffer (Type 2).
Urban Landscape Buffer (Type 2)* | |
Description:
| Required between residential projects with contrasting densities or between incompatible zoning districts, to provide a continuous solid, opaque, visual screen of at least six (6) feet in height comprised of trees, hedges, and shrubs, in combination with a buffer wall. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width of twelve (12) to fifteen (15) feet, depending on degree of incompatibility, mulched (no sod); |
2. One (1) tree spaced every twenty (20) to thirty (30) linear feet on center, depending on degree of incompatibility; | |
3. A continuous hedge of three (3) feet in height located on the outside of buffer wall; | |
4. A six (6)-foot tall masonry buffer wall; and | |
5. * See (4) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(3) Table 4-5. Urban Landscape Barrier.
Urban Landscape Barrier*
| |
Description:
| Required between incompatible uses and zoning districts; or where there are differences in density, intensity, or building heights; or for those certain uses requiring additional screening in order to provide a continuous solid, opaque, visual screen of at least six (6) feet in height comprised of a variety of densely planted trees, hedges and shrubs, in combination with an optional buffer wall and/or berm. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width variable, depending on degree of incompatibility and necessary planting area, mulched (no sod); |
2. One (1) tree spaced every twenty (20) linear feet or less, with staggered understory trees between, as needed to provide opaque screening; | |
3. Two (2) staggered rows of shrubs as needed to provide opaque screening; | |
4. An optional six (6)-foot tall masonry (concrete block) buffer wall and/or a berm (earthen embankment) with a minimum 3:1 slope may be used with plantings to achieve the necessary screening height; and | |
5. * See (4) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(4) Notes. * Minimum buffer and barrier requirements, including caliper of trees, may be increased as warranted by development characteristics such as use, density, intensity, or building height; to mitigate impacts upon abutting or adjacent properties; or to further the beautification objectives of this article. Also, buffer requirements may be decreased due to existing buffers and screening on abutting or adjacent properties, or when projects are designed for interconnectivity, unified control, or master planned. Refer to the use matrix, notes, and restrictions (Chapter 3, Article IV, Section. 3.E.) for additional landscape requirements that may apply to certain specific uses.
d. Exceptions (Cross Access). The landscape buffer requirements may be fully or partially waived where accommodating existing or future shared vehicular use areas, driveways (access), and/or parking stalls between properties. Vehicular access points between properties shall comply with the cross-visibility and safe sight requirements of Section 4.A.14. above where shared parking and vehicular use areas are utilized.
e. Along Florida East Coast Railroad. Properties adjacent to the F.E.C. Railroad right-of-way are required to have a landscape buffer along the right-of-way. The landscape buffer shall meet the following minimum requirements:
(1) Landscaped buffer shall be at least five (5) feet wide.
(2) Living plant materials shall cover at least seventy percent (70%) of the required landscaped area, and shall include trees, shrubs and ground cover, but not sod.
(3) Small trees shall be planted no greater than fifteen (15) feet on center along the landscape buffer.
(4) Shrubs shall be planted to form a continuous dense screen hedge. The shrubs shall be maintained to grow to their full natural height.
(5) Shade trees shall be planted no closer than twenty (20) feet to the railroad right-of-way or as otherwise required by the authority having jurisdiction over the railroad right-of-way.
f. Miscellaneous. No vehicles may encroach or protrude into the required landscape buffer (see Chapter 4, Article VI, Section 3.B.7.).
4. Interior Open Space. See usable open space requirements of the infill planned unit development (IPUD) zoning district in Chapter 3, Article III, Section 2.G.
5. Streetscape Design. The "Urban Landscape Code" contains special landscape standards related to streetscape design.
a. Applicability. This subparagraph shall apply to the following:
(1) All properties currently zoned central business district (CBD);
(2) Any property located within the mixed use (urban) districts (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 5);
(3) Any property located within the Ocean Avenue Overlay Zone (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 8.D.);
(4) Any commercially-zoned property located within the Urban Commercial District Overlay Zone (see Chapter 3, Article III, Section 8);
(5) Any property zoned infill planned unit development (IPUD) with frontage along Federal Highway (US1).
b. General Rules. The "streetscape" is generally considered to be the area located within the reduced building setback area in front and side corner yards in conjunction with the sidewalk area within abutting rights-of-way. Therefore, streetscape design encompasses both the private and the public domain. Trees located within sidewalk areas of public and/or private rights-of-way are considered "street trees."
c. Standards. The following standards are applicable to streetscape design and landscape material must comply with the following:
(1) Trees. All new construction shall include shade trees in the streetscape. The trees selected shall be consistent with the established theme of the street, where appropriate. Trunks shall be a minimum four (4)-inch caliper and provide eight (8) feet of vertical clearance for cross-visibility and safe sight requirements. In instances where canopies or overhangs make it infeasible to plant trees, alternative means of providing landscaping for the sidewalk shall be utilized.
(2) Tree Spacing. Trees shall be regularly spaced between twenty (20) - twenty-five (25) feet on center. Spacing may be modified by factors such as the placement of utilities, by property access points, sight lines at corners or by corner conditions. Tree placement shall match the existing pattern, where appropriate. Tree guards, fabricated to city specifications, shall be placed adjacent to the curb, where feasible.
(3) Flower Containers. Where practical, areas in front of buildings shall be enhanced with colorful plants or flower containers containing blooming annuals or perennials. Window boxes and entry walk plantings shall be incorporated into the overall landscape design theme. See Section 6.B. for additional regulations regarding foundation landscaping areas.
(4) Any property owner requesting a change of use would be required to meet the minimum landscape requirements to the maximum extent feasible. Where deficiencies occur, other methods of landscaping (e.g., landscape cut-outs; planter pots; hanging baskets; etc.) shall be incorporated into the design.
d. Miscellaneous. The landscape material proposed within the right-of-way must comply with Section 4.A.11. above (within rights-of-way) and with cross visibility and safe sight requirements of Section 4.A.14. above and Chapter 3, Article II, Section 6.
C. Suburban Landscape Code.
1. General.
a. Applicability. The "suburban landscape code" shall apply to all properties that have a conventional or planned residential, commercial, industrial, or miscellaneous zoning district, and including the suburban mixed-use (SMU) district, all of which are identified in Chapter 3, Article III of these Regulations.
b. General Rules. All areas used for the outdoor display and/or parking of vehicles, boats, construction equipment, or the like shall conform to the minimum landscaping requirements as provided herein. This includes vehicle-intensive uses, such as auto dealers and automotive repair.
2. Landscape Strip Abutting Rights-of-Way. A landscape strip (i.e. planted area) shall be required within the front and side corner yards of a property where it abuts a road right-of-way, in order to beautify the corridor and screen off-street parking lots and other vehicular use areas. The strip shall be removed of all construction debris and backfilled with clean fill to a depth of one (1) foot. The requirements for this strip vary, depending upon the abutting roadway classification and the location of off-street parking lots or vehicular use areas. However, in no case shall vehicles be allowed to protrude into or over the strip (see Chapter 4, Article VI, Section 3.B.7.).
It is the intent of these Regulations that this strip of land be entirely planted and designed with two (2) layers of plant material, namely an inside and outside portion, and in accordance with one (1) or more of the following requirements:
a. Parking/Vehicular Use Areas Abutting Arterial or Collector Roadways. This landscape strip shall be at least ten (10) feet in width or wider as necessary to provide adequate screening.
(1) The inside portion of the landscape strip shall include a berm, designed at a slope of three to one (3:1), and a continuous hedge. The berm and hedge shall total a minimum of thirty-six (36) inches in height at the time of planting, but in no instance shall the hedge material be installed at less than eighteen (18) inches in height. One (1) tree shall be planted at a maximum spacing of thirty (30) feet apart. Tree spacing may be reduced for vehicle-intensive or other unsightly areas;
(2) The remaining outside portion of a landscape strip shall consist of a minimum of three (3) shrub species, two (2) of which shall be flowering species, planted in continuous rows or clusters. Plant selection and planting patterns that optimize the display of plant texture and color are encouraged; and
(3) Visibility and clear sight at the vehicular access points along the abutting right-of-way shall comply with Section 4.A.14.b. above.
(4) See Section 6.J. for additional regulations regarding the required width of the landscape strip abutting the right-of-way for large non-residential (big box) developments.
b. Parking/Vehicular Use Areas Abutting Streets other than Arterial or Collector Roadways. The landscape strip, intended to screen off-street parking lots and other vehicular use areas located within front and side corner yards, shall be at least seven (7) feet in width and designed as follows:
(1) The inside portion shall consist of a continuous hedge, installed at a minimum of twenty- four (24) inches in height above finished grade and one (1) tree spaced a maximum of thirty (30) feet apart. A berm is optional. Tree spacing may be reduced for vehicle-intensive or other unsightly areas;
(2) The remaining outside portion shall consist of a minimum of three (3) shrub species, two (2) of which shall be flowering species, planted in continuous rows or clusters. Plant selection and planting patterns that optimize the display of plant texture and color are encouraged; and
(3) Visibility and clear sight at the access points along the abutting right-of-way shall comply with Section 4.A.14.b. above.
(4) See Section 6.J. for additional regulations regarding the required width of the landscape strip abutting the right-of-way for large non-residential (big box) developments.
c. Buildings or Structures Abutting Roadways. A landscape strip of varying width shall be required where building(s), pedestrian areas, and/or sidewalks abut any classification of roadway. This necessary planting strip shall consist of trees, spaced a maximum of thirty (30) feet apart, and shrubs and colorful ground cover installed at the base. The "inside" and "outside" portions of the landscape strip as described in Section 4.C.2.a. or Section 4.C.2.b. are not required under these circumstances. However, landscape material and planting patterns shall be consistent with the landscape strip required as noted in the sections above and also with foundation planting requirements of Section 4.F. Landscape material, except low growing shrubs, shall be located at least three (3) feet from the edge of a sidewalk.
d. Certificate of Conformity. All lots subject to eminent domain proceedings must provide landscape material within landscape strips abutting rights-of-way in conformance with Chapter 3, Article V, Section 11.G.4.
3. Perimeter Landscape Buffers.
a. General. Perimeter landscape buffers, where required, shall be provided along side interior and rear property lines. The type of landscape buffer required may vary upon the zoning districts, uses, densities, intensities, and building height(s) of the subject property and abutting and/or adjacent property. The requirement for perimeter landscape buffers along front and side corner property lines shall be met through the provision of a "landscape strip" along street rights-of-way pursuant to Section 4.C.2. above.
b. Standards. Perimeter landscape buffers shall be applied and designed as follows:
(1) Table 4-6. Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 1).
Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 1)*
| |
Description:
| Required between compatible uses and similar zoning districts, such as a commercial use abutting a commercial zoning district, to provide a visual screen of at least three (3) feet in height comprised of trees, and shrubs. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width of five (5) feet; |
2. One (1) tree spaced every thirty (30) linear feet on center; | |
3. Shrubs planted tip-to-tip to provide a continuous hedge three (3) feet in height; and | |
4. * See (5) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(2) Table 4-7. Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 2).
Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 2)*
| |
Description:
| Required between incompatible uses and zoning districts, such as a commercial or industrial use abutting a residential zoning district, to provide a continuous solid, opaque, visual screen of at least six (6) feet in height comprised of trees, hedges, and shrubs, in combination with a buffer wall. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width of twelve (12) to fifteen (15) feet, depending on degree of incompatibility, mulched (no sod); |
2. One (1) tree spaced every twenty (20) to thirty (30) linear feet on center, depending on degree of incompatibility; | |
3. A continuous hedge of three (3) feet in height located on the outside of buffer wall; | |
4. A six (6)-foot tall masonry buffer wall; and | |
5. * See (5) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(3) Table 4-8. Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 3).
Suburban Landscape Buffer (Type 3)*
| |
Description:
| Required around perimeter property lines of a planned commercial development (PCD) when abutting a single-family residential zoning district; and required for suburban mixed use (SMU) and planned industrial development (PID) zoning districts, to provide a continuous solid, opaque, visual screen of at least six (6) feet in height comprised of trees, hedges, and shrubs in combination with a buffer wall. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width of twenty-five (25) to forty (40) feet, depending on degree of incompatibility, mulched (no sod); |
2. One (1) tree spaced every twenty (20) linear feet on center; | |
3. A continuous hedge of three (3) feet in height on outside of buffer wall; | |
4. A six (6)-foot tall masonry buffer wall (optional for PID); and | |
5. * See (5) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(4) Table 4-9. Suburban Landscape Barrier.
Suburban Landscape Barrier*
| |
Description:
| Required between incompatible uses and zoning districts; or where there are differences in density, intensity, or building heights; or for those certain uses requiring additional screening in order to provide a continuous solid, opaque, visual screen of at least six (6) feet in height comprised of a variety of densely planted trees, hedges and shrubs, in combination with an optional buffer wall and/or berm. |
Requirements:
| 1. Minimum buffer width varies, depending on degree of incompatibility and necessary planting area, mulched (no sod); |
2. One (1) tree spaced every twenty (20) linear feet or less, with staggered understory trees between, as needed to provide opaque screening; | |
3. Two (2) staggered rows of shrubs as needed to provide opaque screening; | |
4. An optional six (6)-foot tall masonry (concrete block) buffer wall and/or a berm (earthen embankment) with a minimum three to one (3:1) slope may be used with plantings to achieve the necessary screening height; and | |
5. * See (5) Notes below for additional regulations. | |
(5) Notes. *Minimum buffer and barrier requirements, including caliper of trees, may be increased as warranted by development characteristics such as use, density, intensity, or building height; to mitigate impacts upon abutting or adjacent properties; or to further the beautification objectives of this article. Also, buffer requirements may be decreased due to existing buffers and screening on abutting or adjacent properties, or when projects are designed for interconnectivity, unified control, or master planned. Refer to the use matrix, notes, and restrictions (Chapter 3, Article IV, Section 3.E.) for additional landscape requirements that may apply to certain specific uses.
c. Exceptions (Cross Access). The landscape buffer requirements may be fully or partially waived where accommodating existing or future shared vehicular use areas, driveways (access), and/or parking stalls between properties.
d. Along Florida East Coast Railroad. Properties adjacent to the F.E.C. Railroad right-of-way are required to have a landscape buffer along the right-of-way. The landscape buffer shall meet the following minimum requirements:
(1) Landscaped buffer shall be at least five (5) feet wide.
(2) Living plant materials shall cover at least seventy percent (70%) of the required landscaped area, and shall include trees, shrubs and ground cover, but not sod.
(3) Small trees shall be planted no greater than fifteen (15) feet on center along the landscape buffer.
(4) Shrubs shall be planted to form a continuous dense screen hedge. The shrubs shall be maintained to grow to their full natural height.
(5) Shade trees shall be planted no closer than twenty (20) feet to the railroad right-of-way or as otherwise required by the authority having jurisdiction over the railroad right-of-way.
e. Miscellaneous. No vehicles may encroach or protrude into the required landscape buffer (see Chapter 4, Article VI, Section 3.B.7.).
4. Interior Open Space. Adequate landscaped open space shall be provided to meet the particular needs and demands of each development. The type and distribution of all open space shall be determined by the character, intensity and anticipated residential or user composition of the corresponding development.
a. Multi-family and Planned Developments. Landscaped open space shall be provided to meet the particular needs of the subject development. The provision and design of such open space shall be a factor of project size, density, and anticipated user composition of the development. It is the intent of this subparagraph to require pervious space within common areas that enhances development with a combination of passive or open play areas, and areas with cooler micro-climates created by extensive tree canopies, cool ground surfaces, and proper building massing and orientation for air flow. In addition to the landscaping required by other sections of this article, the following requirements specifically apply to multi-family developments, town homes and planned developments, such as within a PUD or SMU district:
(1) The project shall include one (1) tree for every one thousand, four hundred (1,400) square feet (or fraction thereof) of developed areas as represented by principal and accessory buildings. Trees required along street frontages shall not count toward this requirement. However, credit shall be given toward this requirement for those trees that are preserved on-site and deemed healthy by staff or a certified arborist. The use of canopy trees should be emphasized in order to maximize shading;
(2) Except for recreational settings for open-play and areas used principally for drainage and storm water management purposes, the use of sod should be replaced with fully planted areas, and mulch or alternative natural covers such as pine needles from the concentration of slash pine trees or comparable species. Hard surfaces used in these areas should be avoided, except for the minimal use of pavers or other pervious, or partially-pervious materials; and
(3) Larger open areas should be located central within the project, to minimize distance to all units. The open areas can be designed in conjunction with active play areas such as swimming pools and hard court game areas; however, such impervious areas shall not count towards this requirement for interior open space.
b. SMU Suburban Mixed Use District. See usable open space requirements of the suburban mixed use (SMU) district in Chapter 3, Article III, Section 4.
c. PID Planned Industrial District. Each development shall contain a minimum of twenty percent (20%) unobstructed, non-vehicular open space. Areas designed to meet this requirement shall have adequate grading and drainage, and shall be continuously maintained in a dust-free condition by suitable landscaping with trees and shrubs. Preserved or re-established natural landscaped areas or habitats within a PID may count towards this open space requirement without having to meet the requirements regarding grading, drainage, and dust-free condition.
(Ord. 10-025, passed 12-7-10; Am. Ord. 11-002, passed 3-1-11; Am. Ord. 11-019, passed 8-2-11; Am. Ord. 12-016, passed 10-2-12)