Landscape materials utilized in meeting requirements of this Section should complement the form of existing trees and plantings, as well as the general design and architecture of the developed area. The type of sun or shade should be considered in selecting plant materials. Artificial plants are prohibited. All landscape materials shall be living plants and shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Deciduous Trees. Trees which normally shed their leaves in the fall, shall be species having an average mature crown spread of greater than fifteen (15) feet and having trunks which can be maintained with over five (5) feet of clear wood in areas where visibility is required, except at vehicular use intersections where the clear wood requirement shall be eight (8) feet. A minimum of ten (10) feet overall height, or a minimum caliper (trunk diameter as measured six inches above the ground) of at least two (2) inches immediately after planting shall be required. Trees of undesirable species, as cited in subsection (b) below, are prohibited.
(b) In meeting the planting and maintenance requirements of this Ordinance, the following species of trees shall be considered undesirable species, and shall not be utilized.
(1) Box-Elder (Acer negundo)
(2) Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum)
(3) Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)
(4) Tulip Tree (Liriodendrum tulipfera)
(5) Mulberry (Morus alba)
(6) Poplars and Cottonwoods(all kinds) (Populus)
(7) Willows (all kinds) (Salix)
(8) Siberian Elm (Ulmas pumila)
(c) Evergreen trees. Evergreen trees shall be a minimum of three (3) feet high with a minimum caliper of one (1) inch immediately after planting.
(d) Shrubs and Hedges. Shrubs shall be planted at least two (2) feet in average height when planted and shall conform to specified requirements within four (4) years after planting.
(e) Grass or Ground Cover. Grass of the fescue (Gramineae) or bluegrass (Poaceae) family shall be planted in species normally grown as permanent lawns, and may be sodded or seeded. In swales or similar areas subject to erosion, nets or suitable mulch shall be used; nurse grass shall be sown for immediate protection until complete coverage otherwise is achieved. In certain cases, ground cover consisting of rocks, pebbles, sand or similar materials may be approved.
(Ord. 2009-85. Passed 12-8-09.)