It is not the intent of this subchapter to discourage innovative, aesthetically pleasing landscaping design. Thus, the developer may, at his or her option, submit a landscape plan which conforms to the spirit and intent of this subchapter while varying from its specific requirements. The plan presented must be deemed a substantial improvement over the minimum requirements of this subchapter by the Planning Commission or the agency responsible for plan review.
(LDC § 10.2.13)