(a) Minimum Standards. On each property for which a Tree Protection Plan is required by this chapter, existing trees may be retained and new trees shall be planted such that the property shall attain or exceed a tree/shrub density standard of 25 units per acre, exclusive of any acreage within a zoning buffer area and any trees needed to meet buffer requirements of the Zoning Ordinance or conditions of zoning approval. The trees, both existing and new, where feasible, shall be reasonably distributed throughout the site, with emphasis on tree groupings to achieve aesthetic results following professional landscaping standards. Trees may be retained or planted for credit within a public right of way if granted approval by the Planning and Zoning Department.
(b) Tree Density Standard Calculation. The tree density standard shall be calculated by summing the following credits and dividing the total acreage of the project included within the limits of the permit application (but excluding any acreage included within a zoning buffer.
(1) Credit by existing trees to be retained shall be calculated by multiplying the number of trees, by diameter, times the units assigned in Table A which is attached hereto and a part hereof. Credit shall be given all trees retained on a property having a diameter of three inches or more, except trees located in a zoning buffer.
(2) Credit for new trees proposed on the site shall be calculated by multiplying the number of trees, by diameter, times the units assigned in Table B, which is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Credit shall be given all new trees on a property except for new trees of less than one inch in diameter and new trees planted in a required zoning buffer.
(3) Additional credit shall be granted under the following circumstances:
A. A total tree density credit not to exceed twice the units shown on Table A, may be granted by the Planning and Zoning Department for existing trees to be retained which have greater value as outstanding specimen trees or having historic value or being a rare or unique species.
B. Existing trees to be retained within a minimum yard area (as required by the applicable zoning district) or within a 100-year Flood Plain shall be granted a bonus credit of 50% of the units assigned in Table A unless the tree is located within a required zoning buffer.
(Ord. 14-05. Passed 5-3-05.)