The following Sections include specifications for plant materials. Alternatives to these materials that can be shown to meet both the intent and requirements of this Zoning Code, may be approved as part of a site plan:
(a) Shrubs. Shrubs shall be at least 24 inches average height and spread at the time of planting and, where required for screening, shall form a continuous, year-round, solid visual screen within five years after planting.
(b) Ground Cover and Grass. Ground cover shall be planted a minimum of eight inches on center and shall be planted in such a manner to present a finished appearance and 75 percent coverage after one complete growing season. If approved as part of a Site Plan, ground cover may also consist of rocks, pebbles, wood chips, and other material. Grass shall be planted in species normally grown as permanent lawns.
(c) Deciduous Shade Trees. Deciduous shade trees shall be at least two inch caliper trees at the time of planting.
(d) Evergreen Trees. Evergreen trees shall be at least four feet at the time of planting.
(e) Prohibited Tree Species. Within any required landscaping, the following tree species may not be used:
Box Elder | Tree of Heaven | Catalpa | Silver Maple |
Black Walnut | Poplar | Willow | |
Mountain Ash | Siberian Elm | Black Locust | |
Hickory | Mulberry | Cottonwood |
In addition to the specific species listed above, trees which produce nuts, seeds or fruit that can create a hazard to pedestrians or vehicles, shall not be planted in such a manner that the natural dripline of an average adult tree of the species planted will be any closer than three feet of a pedestrian walkway or parking lot.