Whenever a buffer strip is required by this chapter, the strip shall meet the specifications of this section, unless different specifications are given in the section where the buffer strip is required.
(A) (1) A buffer strip shall consist of a planted strip which shall be a minimum of 25 feet in width, shall be composed of evergreen bushes, shrubs and/or trees so that at least two rows of coverage are provided from the ground to a height of six feet within six years and foliage overlaps.
(2) A buffer strip may also be constructed of stone, block, brick or other suitable building material, with a minimum height of five feet.
(3) The 25 feet required for the buffer strip shall be in addition to all normal yard requirements of this chapter.
(B) Buffer strips shall be required in the following situations, as well as in any others specified in other sections of this chapter: whenever a manufacturing, processing, retail, wholesale trade or warehousing use or public utility installation is established, a buffer strip shall be provided wherever the lot on which the use is established abuts or is across an easement or right-of-way from land zoned for residential use.
(C) All buffer strips shall become part of the lot on which they are located, or in the case of commonly owned land, shall belong to the homeowners or property owners association.
(D) The buffer strip shall be maintained for the life of the development. Maintenance shall be the responsibility of the property owner, or, if the property is rented, the lessee.
(E) (1) If a natural screen is already in place which will adequately fulfill the purpose of the buffer strip, the Zoning Administrator may, in writing, allow a substitution of all or part of this screen for the buffer strip.
(2) Written permission of the Zoning Administrator shall be obtained before removing an existing natural buffer in the location on the required buffer strip.
(F) Where, because of intense shade or soil conditions, a planting screen cannot be expected to thrive, the Zoning Administrator may, in writing, allow substitution of a well-maintained wooden fence or masonry wall at least six feet in height.
(G) Where it is clear that a smaller buffer will protect neighboring property from harmful effects, the Board of Adjustment may reduce the buffer to 15 feet and one row of trees.
(H) The Board of Adjustment may require a maintenance bond for the buffers, as a condition of approval.
(Ord. 21- , passed - -2021)