Landscape materials utilized in meeting requirements of this section should complement the form of existing trees and plantings, as well as the general design and architecture of the developed area. The type of sun or shade should be considered in selecting plant materials. Artificial plants are prohibited. All landscape materials shall be living plants and shall meet the following requirements:
(a) Quality. All plant material shall conform to the standards of the American Association of Nurserymen and shall have passed any inspections required under state regulations.
(b) Type. Added landscape elements shall observe and respect the size, placement, character and type of such materials employed on adjacent or nearby properties.
(c) Deciduous Trees. Trees which normally shed their leaves in the fall shall be species having an average mature crown spread of greater than fifteen (15) feet and having trunks which can be maintained with over five (5) feet of clear wood in areas where visibility is required, except at vehicular use intersections where the clear wood requirement shall be eight (8) feet. A minimum of ten (10) feet overall height, or a minimum caliper (trunk diameter as measured six inches above ground) of at least two (2) inches immediately after planting shall be required. Trees of undesirable species, as listed in Section 1183.07 are prohibited.
(d) Evergreen Trees. Evergreen trees shall be a minimum of five (5) feet high with a minimum caliper of one and one-half (1 1/2) inches immediately after planting.
(e) Shrubs and Hedges. Shrubs shall be planted at least two (2) feet in average height when planted and shall conform to opacity and other requirements within four (4) years after planting.
(f) Vines. Vines shall be at least twelve (12) inches high at planting and generally used in conjunction with walls or fences.
(g) Grass or Ground Cover. Grass of the fescue (Gramineae) or bluegrass (Poaceae) family shall be planted in species normally grown as permanent lawns, and may be sodded or seeded. In swales or other areas, reducing net or suitable mulch shall be used; nurse grass shall be sown for immediate protection until complete coverage otherwise is achieved. In certain cases, ground cover consisting of rocks, pebbles, sand or similar materials may be approved.
(h) Maintenance and Installation. All landscaping materials shall be installed in a sound and competent manner, according to accepted, good construction and planting procedures. The owner of the property shall be responsible for the continued proper maintenance of all landscaping materials, and shall keep them in a proper, neat and orderly appearance, free of refuse and debris at all times. All unhealthy or dead plant material installed pursuant to this section shall be replaced within one (1) year.
(Ord. 08-2022. Passed 5-4-22.)