(A) LS-01: Foundation planting. Landscaping is an essential part in the design and development of a site. Such plantings are a benefit to the environment, public health, safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare of the town. These standards will result in the reduction of storm water runoff, glare, heat buildup, and will reduce energy costs in structures and improve the aesthetics of the community. Construction of a new primary structure or expansion of an existing primary structure by 30% or more in floor area must follow the landscaping standards as outlined in this section. The minimum requirement is as follows.
(1) All trees planted must be at least one and one-half inch caliper trees.
(2) Any trees planted to meet the landscaping standards must be replanted if the tree ever dies or becomes diseased within one year.
(3) Single family residential projects (except in the R4 District) require a minimum of two deciduous canopy trees to be planted in the front yard and one deciduous canopy tree to be planted in the side or rear yard of the lot.
(4) Multiple family residential requires a minimum of one deciduous canopy tree to be planted per three dwelling units. Plantings required for as buffer yards or parking lot standards shall not be counted toward this minimum landscaping requirement.
(5) Commercial/retail/office projects (except in the Downtown Commercial District (DC)) require a minimum of one deciduous canopy tree or ornamental tree to be planted per every 3000 square feet of commercial/retail/office space. The minimum number of trees to be planted when the project is less than 3000 is one tree. Plantings required for as buffer yards or parking lot standards shall not be counted toward this minimum landscaping requirement.
(6) Industrial/manufacturing and similar uses are required to plant a minimum of one deciduous canopy tree per 5000 square feet of floor space. Plantings required for as buffer yards or parking lot standards shall not be counted toward this minimum landscaping requirement.
(B) LS-02: General standards for landscaping.
(1) No landscaping materials, vegetation, plants, shrubs, trees, retaining walls, bedding, lighting, or mounds may extend into any right-of-way or easement without the written permission of the agency that established the right-of-way or easement. Any landscaping items may be removed without notice if within a right-of-way or easement even when permission has been granted by the controlling agency to place said items.
(2) No trees may be planted within five feet of sidewalks, streets, curbs, gutters, drainage tile, or other infrastructure, unless approved otherwise by the Planning Commission.
(3) The species of trees and plants for foundation plantings may be subject to standards of the town. If a tree ordinance has been adopted by the Town Council, said standards for species type will apply to all foundation plantings.
(Ord. passed - - )