(A) Applicability. This section addresses proposed improvements or modifications to drainage channels and watercourses required to convey storm water runoff from or through the proposed development.
(B) Standards.
(1) Except as authorized by a development plan approved by the Code Enforcement Officer, no person shall place any obstruction of any kind in any watercourse within the city, except where specifically permitted by the UDC. The owner of any property within the city, through which any watercourse may pass, shall keep the watercourse free from any obstruction not designated on a subdivision plat or site plan.
(2) Modifications to existing watercourses or newly created open channels may be designed as earth, sodded or as concrete-lined channels. Liners other than sod or concrete that enhance the aesthetics or habitat value of the watercourse and that reduce future maintenance requirements are permitted. Preliminary planning for the applicability of other channel liners shall be reviewed with the Code Enforcement Officer prior to the submittal of construction plans for approval.
(3) (a) A maintenance schedule for any private channel shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Official prior to approval of construction plans. Maintenance requirements of concrete channels consist of desilting activities, prevention of vegetation establishment in construction joints and repair of concrete, as necessary. Maintenance of earthen channels includes regular observation and repair as necessary of erosion, scouring and removal of silt deposits, as necessary to maintain design parameters. Applicants shall maintain newly planted channels until coverage is established throughout 85% of the area. This area shall include slopes, floor and any attendant maintenance easement. New earthen channels shall be planted with drought-resistant, low-growth, native-species grasses, which will allow unobstructed passage of flood waters. Johnsongrass, Giant Ragweed and other invasive species are not permitted in channels.
(b) These species shall include Common Bermuda, Coastal Bermuda, Buffalo Grass, Sideoats Grama, Seep Muhly, Little Bluestem, Indiangrass or other species approved by the City Manager that meet the standards of this section. Mowing frequencies vary with the vegetation growth rates, but is required when the grass exceeds the design roughness coefficient of the channel.
(C) Velocity criteria. Table 153.1065(B) shall be used to determine the type of storm water management facility that is used.
(Ord. 3020, passed 9-10-2013, § 5.22.15)