The preservation of existing trees and vegetation, and the planting of new trees and vegetation, can significantly add to the quality of the physical environment of the City of Chardon. The regulations in this chapter are designed to foster development that will protect and preserve the appearance and character of the City, and promote the health, safety, and welfare of the community by:
(a) Requiring the proper utilization of landscaping and screening as a buffer between certain land uses to reduce noise, glare, and the visual clutter associated with parking and service areas;
(b) Requiring landscaping in the interior and along the perimeter of vehicular use areas to break up large expanses of pavement and reduce reflected heat and glare.
(c) Controlling the installation of exterior lighting fixtures to prevent light pollution in the forms of light trespass and glare and to preserve, protect and enhance the character of the City and the lawful nighttime use and enjoyment of property located within the City.
(d) Improving the appearance of off street parking areas and vehicular use areas and properties abutting public rights of way;
(e) Providing areas of permeable surfaces in order to:
(1) Allow the infiltration of surface water into groundwater resources;
(2) Reduce the quantity of storm water discharge, thereby reducing the hazards of flooding and aiding in the control of erosion and storm water runoff;
(3) Preserve air quality through the preservation and replacement of trees and significant vegetation removed in the course of development;
(4) Improve the quality of storm water discharge.
(f) Establishing minimum standards for the quality and appearance of plant material in the community landscape;
(g) Providing physiologically, psychologically, sociologically, and aesthetically necessary counterpoints to the man made environment; and,
(h) Protecting, preserving, and promoting the aesthetic character valued by the residents of the City of Chardon.
(Ord. 3273. Passed 5-9-24.)