A. Definition: A "buffer yard" is a landscape area which serves to physically and/or visually separate land uses having incompatible facilities, activities, or differing intensities of use. For the purposes of buffer yard regulations, a display lot as defined in section 17.44.020 of this title shall not be construed to be a parking lot.
B. Applicability: A buffer yard is required as follows:
1. When a commercial, civic, or manufacturing use abuts a residential use or a residential zone.
2. Between a parking lot not associated with a residential activity, and a residential activity or a residential zone.
3. Where a parking lot abuts a public street right of way.
4. To conceal outdoor storage areas, trash receptacles, and exposed machinery associated with any commercial activity when adjacent to a residential activity or a public street right of way.
5. As established in subsection 17.44.250D of this title for loading berth adjacent to residential activity or a residential zone.
6. For planting screen easements required by section 16.15.180 of this code.
C. Minimum Required: The following buffer yard is required according to the application above:
Application No. | Buffer Yard Requirement |
1, 4 | 5 feet wide, 5 feet high, or a 5 foot fence |
2 | 5 feet wide where curb acts as a bumper stop, otherwise, 3 feet wide; and 5 feet high or a minimum 5 foot fence |
3 | 5 feet wide where curb acts as a bumper stop, otherwise, 3 feet wide; and 3 feet high or a minimum 3 foot fence |
6 | Vegetative cover that meets the requirements of subsection D of this section must fill the easement. Fences are not allowed within the easement. |
D. Materials For Buffer Yards:
1. All buffer yards shall be comprised of, but not limited to, a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, and ground cover in which evergreen plant materials comprise a minimum of seventy five percent (75%) of the total plant material used.
2. The required buffer yard shall result in an effective barrier within three (3) years and be maintained such that fifty percent (50%) or more of the vertical surface is closed and prevents the passage of vision through it, as determined by the planning department. (Ord. 3674 §8, 2021: Ord. 3237 §2, 2005: Ord. 3127, 2003: Ord. 3025 §13, 2001: Ord. 2934 §52, 1999: Ord. 2331 §1, 1990: Ord. 2109 §8, 1988)