A. Purpose: The purpose of this Section 7.4.911 is to provide credit for the conservation of existing natural, healthy vegetation on development sites, which helps to preserve natural ecosystems.
B. Credit:
1. An applicant required to install landscaping pursuant to this Part 7.4.9 shall receive credit for preserving existing significant trees and vegetation against all tree planting requirements that would otherwise apply in this Part 7.4.9.
2. Trees and existing vegetation that the applicant proposes to retain shall be indicated on the landscape plan.
3. Existing trees and vegetation shall not be invasive and not be dead or dying. They shall be credited towards required landscaping as follows:
a. Deciduous Trees: A credit of one (1) tree per every one-and-one-half (1 ½) inch in caliper DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) of an existing qualified deciduous or ornamental tree.
b. Evergreen Trees: A credit of one tree per every six (6) feet in height of an existing qualified evergreen tree.
c. Shrubs: A credit of one shrub for each existing qualified shrub.
C. Tree Retention Standards: Specifications, plans, and construction practices regarding the retention of significant vegetation on development sites shall comply with the standards in the Landscape Policy Manual. (Ord. 23-03)