(A) Selection. All planting materials used shall be of good quality and meet American Association of Nurserymen (AANS) standards for minimum acceptable form, quality and size for species selected, and capable to withstand the seasonal temperature variations of northeastern Illinois, as well as the individual site microclimates. The use of species native to northeastern Illinois shall be encouraged. Size and density of plant material, both at the time of planting and at maturity, are additional criteria that shall be considered when selecting plant material. Where appropriate, the use of drought and salt tolerant plant material is preferred.
(B) Installation. All landscaping materials shall be installed in accordance with the current planting procedures established by the AANS. All plant materials shall be free of disease and shall be installed so that soil of sufficient volume, composition and nutrient balance are available to sustain healthy growth.
(C) Required element. Landscape materials depicted on landscape plans approved by the village shall be considered to be required site plan elements in the same manner as buildings, parking and other improvements. As such, the owner of record, or in some instances the homeowner’s association, shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement of all landscape materials, and fences, steps, retaining walls and similar landscaping elements over the entire life of the development.
(D) Maintenance. All landscaping materials shall be maintained in good condition, shall present a healthy, neat and orderly appearance, and shall be kept free of refuse and debris. Any dead, unhealthy or missing plants shall be replaced within six months of notification by the village or the next reasonable available growing/planting season. All fences, steps, retaining walls and similar landscaping elements required within the landscaping plan shall be maintained in good repair. The owner of the premises shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of all landscape materials, fences, steps, retaining walls and similar landscaping elements, and refuse disposal areas. Irrigation systems, when provided, shall be maintained in good operating condition to promote the health of the plant material and the conservation of water.
(Ord. 929, passed 1-25-11; Ord. 1076, passed 1-23-18) Penalty, see § 153.999