(A) (1) Low impact development (LID) is a comprehensive approach rather than a technique. The idea behind LID is to develop a site so that post-development runoff conditions mimic or imitate pre-settlement runoff. The premises of LID is that storm water is an asset and necessary element in the natural environment and it should not be managed for “disposal”. The approach emphasizes the integration of site design and planning techniques in order to design the built environment so that it remains a functioning part of an ecosystem, rather than existing apart from it.
(2) Key principles of design include:
(a) Preserve open space and minimize land disturbance;
(b) Protect natural systems and processes (drainage ways, vegetation, soils, sensitive areas);
(c) Re-examine the use and sizing of traditional site infrastructure (lots, streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks) and customize design to each site;
(d) Incorporate natural site elements (wetlands, stream corridors, mature forests) as design elements; and
(e) Decentralize and micromanage storm water at its source.
(B) The City encourages innovative site design to reduce the environmental impacts of development. Low impact development strategies include, but are not limited to:
(1) Reduced street width;
(2) Use of pervious pavements;
(3) Use of bio-retention/rain water gardens and/or infiltration swales within yards and along roads, parking lots and within parking lots;
(4) Amending/restoring soils to increase infiltration;
(5) Preserve existing vegetation and open space;
(6) Constructing wetlands for storm water treatment;
(7) Disconnecting impervious surfaces; and
(8) Installing green roofs.
(C) To encourage the use of these strategies, the City offers bonus densities as negotiated through a PUD.
(Ord. passed 3-20-2002, § 4, sub. 15)