The following requirements shall apply to all new land development projects:
(A) On-site tree planting is encouraged.
(B) Existing trees in ungraded areas, excluding stream buffers, shall count in all project types toward the density unit requirements, provided they meet the tree protection area requirements.
(C) All trees to be saved and credit received, must be identified on a TPP and must provide a root protection zone equal to a six-foot radius around the tree or a one-foot radius from the trunk of the tree per each inch of diameter at breast height (“dbh”), whichever is greater. All trees to receive credit must be healthy and in good condition and are subject to review by the County. The County may approve an exception of up to 35% of the Root Protection Zone requirement, but if the exception is granted, the density unit credit for the existing tree will be reduced by 50%. All construction practices for protecting existing trees (including protective barriers and identification of tree protection areas) shall be consistent with International Society of Arboriculture and American National Standards Institute standards whenever possible.
(D) In accordance with the provisions of § 17-54, unless no tree credits are going to be sought, prior to any grading or clearing activities on a lot or parcel for development and applying for a grading or building permit, the developer shall have conducted a tree survey identifying the location and size of trees to be used for tree credits and they shall be shown on a TPP survey.
(E) The design of any land development project or subdivision shall take into consideration the location of all Heritage Trees, Specimen Trees, and stands of Trees. The County, at the request of the developer or landowner, may field survey the site and identify opportunities and incentives to save said trees.
(F) The County has the authority to postpone required tree planting until the appropriate planting season.
(G) The buffer requirements of this article shall be in addition to the landscaping and screening requirements in Ordinance No. 4048 of the Greenville County Zoning Ordinance. In the event of conflicts between the two ordinances, the most restrictive shall apply.
(H) In perimeter buffers and setbacks, canopy trees cannot be placed closer than 15 feet on center except for evergreen trees, which may be placed 10 feet on center.
(I) A tree warranty must be provided by the contractor, who must adequately maintain trees for the first year after planting. After one year, tree maintenance is the responsibility of the property owner.
(Ord. 4173, passed 1-22-2008)