(a) Intent. The intent of this section is to establish provisions for a visual screen or buffer between incompatible uses and to reduce the effects of glare from automobile headlights, noise and other objectionable activities conducted on a given lot.
(b) Applicability. Screening or buffering in compliance with the provisions of this section shall be provided for any permitted or conditionally permitted non-residential uses which abut any residential area in addition to setback and yard requirements provided elsewhere in this Zoning Ordinance.
(c) Yard or Setback Variance. Applicants for a zoning permit may request a variance from yard or setback requirements in conjunction with a plan for screening, which the Board of Zoning Appeals may consider by weighing the relationship of the proposed screening plan and the requested dimensional variance with respect to their joint impact upon neighboring properties. Such requested variance for a conditionally permitted use shall be incorporated in the conditional use procedure specified within this Zoning Ordinance.
(d) Purpose. Screening shall be provided for one (1) or more of the following purposes:
(1) A visual barrier to partially or completely obstruct the view of structures or activities.
(2) An acoustic screen to aid in absorbing or deflecting noise.
(3) A physical barrier to contain debris and litter.
(e) Screening. Screening shall consist of one (1) of the following, or a combination of two (2) or more, as determined by the reviewing authority (Council, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, or the Zoning Administrator depending on the type of application):
(1) A solid masonry wall with deciduous or evergreen trees.
(2) A solidly constructed decorative fence with deciduous or evergreen trees.
(3) A louvered fence with deciduous or evergreen trees.
(4) Dense vegetative planting with evergreen trees.
(5) A landscaped mounding with deciduous or evergreen trees.
(f) Height. Height of screening shall be in accordance with the following:
(1) Visual screening walls, fences, plantings, or mounds shall be a minimum of six (6) feet high in order to accomplish the desired screening effect, except in required front yards where maximum height shall be not greater than three (3) feet. Planting shall be a minimum of four (4) feet in height at the time of planting.
(2) A dense vegetative planting with a minimum height of four (4) feet at planting and a mature height of at least six (6) feet or a solidly constructed decorative fence, shall be permanently maintained along the mutual boundary of an accessory parking area and adjacent land zoned for residential uses, except for the portion of such boundary located within a required front yard.
(g) Minimum Planting Requirements. Unless otherwise specified, wherever a landscape screen is required, screening shall conform to Table 1137-3. See also illustrative Figure 1137-B.
Table 1137-3: Minimum Planting Requirements | ||
Required Screening | Minimum Buffer Width | Deciduous or Evergreen Trees |
Structural Buffer (Wall or Fence) | 10 ft. | 1 per 30 lineal ft. |
Dense Vegetative Planting | 20 ft. | 2 rows staggered evergreen trees planted no more than 15 ft. on center |
Landscape Mounding (may be a mound and fence) | Minimum width equal to total mound height times 3 | Spaced no further than 15 ft. apart |
Figure 1137-B: Illustrations of Screening Buffers
(h) Curbing Protection. Whenever required screening is adjacent to parking areas or driveways, such screening shall be protected by concrete curbing or an approved alternative to avoid damage by vehicles. See Section 1139.07(k) "Curbing and Wheel Stops."
(i) Maintenance. All screening shall be trimmed, maintained in good condition, and free of advertising or other signs, except for directional signs and other signs for the efficient flow of vehicles. (Ord. 30-22. Passed 12-12-22.)