There are several important key concepts to understand. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
BERM. An earthen mound designed to provide visual interest, screen undesirable views and/or decrease noise.
BUFFER. Thought of as a “transitional space”, a buffer can consist of horizontal space (land) and vertical elements (plants, berms, fences or walls). Its purpose is to physically separate and visually screen adjacent land uses that are not fully compatible.
CALIPER. A measurement of the diameter of a tree trunk.
DECIDUOUS. Plants/trees which lose their leaves in the fall.
DEVELOPING USE. This is the use being considered for development. The use may be straight permitted, or conditional. It is typically this use which will require the filing of a site plan (a plan for development) and it is usually this developer who will be responsible for buffering his or her use from an existing adjacent use.
EVERGREEN. Plants/trees which retain foliage throughout the year.
EXISTING ADJACENT USE. The use of land already in place prior to the development of an adjacent land use.
PLANTING STRIP OR AREA. A ground surface free of concrete, asphalt, stone, gravel, brick or other paving materials, aside from walkways, which is required or used for landscaping purposes.
SHRUB. A woody plant, smaller than a tree, consisting of several small stems from the ground or small branches near the ground. SHRUB may be deciduous or evergreen.
TREE, CANOPY OR LARGE MATURING TREE. Any tree the height of which exceeds 35 feet at maturity.
TREE, UNDERSTORY OR SMALL MATURING TREE. Any tree the height of which is less than 35 feet at maturity.
(Ord. 10.10, passed 5-19-2009)