(A) Tree preservation.
(1) Preservation and credit. Existing vegetation on all development sites should be preserved to the greatest extent possible and incorporated in the project landscape plan in order to promote the preservation of existing natural areas. Credits for tree preservation toward buffer, parking and other landscaping requirements are available when a tree preservation plan or site plan illustrating trees to be saved is submitted prior to grading the site.
(2) Tree Protection Zones (TPZ). The preservation plan should specify the location of temporary tree protection fences to protect trees and their roots during construction. Temporary protection fences (defined in § 157.03(F)) shall be erected and encroachment prohibited in the TPZ area using the following guidelines:
(B) Standards for preservation or replacement. For the purpose of achieving the objectives outlined in § 157.03(A) all new commercial or residential developments shall provide for the preservation or replacement of regulated trees using the following minimum standards.
(1) The total number of regulated trees to be retained should be at least 15 trees per acre (less impervious surface area (ex. parking, building)).
(2) If there are less than 15 regulated trees per acre on the site, then the difference shall be replaced with new or existing smaller trees, to a total of 15 trees per acre equaling at least one caliper inch per tree planted or retained.
(3) If there are no regulated trees on the site, then at least 15 new or existing trees per acre (less impervious surface area) equaling at least one caliper inch per tree shall be planted or retained.
(4) In the event a developer clear-cuts a lot or tract and has failed to provide a site plan to the office of Planning and Inspections, the developer shall be required to plant 23 trees per acre (less impervious surface area), each with a minimum caliper of one inch.
(5) Regulated trees that are retained may be used to fulfill some of the planting requirements of street yard, parking facilities or buffering, provided they are not damaged by construction activities or the intended use of the property.
(Ord. passed 7-25-2011)