(a) Service Structure Defined.
(1) For the purpose of this chapter, “service structures” shall include, but not be limited to, loading docks, propane tanks, dumpsters, electrical transformers, utility vaults which extend above the ground, ground mounted utility equipment and electrical and other equipment or elements providing service to a building or a site located in any non-residential zoning district.
(2) Structures may be grouped together. However, screening height shall be based upon the tallest of the structures, unless otherwise set forth in this chapter.
(b) Location of Screening. A continuous planting of evergreens or solid brick wall must enclose any service structure on all sides, unless such structure must be frequently moved or accessed, in which case screening material shall be one foot more than the height of the enclosed structure, but shall not be required to exceed ten feet in height.
(1) Whenever a service structure is located next to a building wall, perimeter landscaping material shall be of an average height sufficient to meet the height requirements set out in this section.
(2) Whenever service structures are screened by plant material, such material may count towards the fulfillment of required site landscaping.
(3) No interior landscaping shall be required within an area screened for service structures.
Dumpster Screening
Illustration of a dumpster screened using a solid brick wall.
(c) Trash Receptacle or Dumpster Screening Guidelines.
(1) All trash containers, dumpsters and/or trash collection areas shall be located in the rear yard area of a lot and shall be fully screened by means of a minimum six foot high brick or stone wall with a solid gate for access to the receptacles. Such masonry wall materials shall architecturally match or be consistent with those exterior materials found on the principal building.
A. Fencing constructed of any material shall not be used to screen any trash containers, dumpsters and/or trash collection areas.
B. Wood products used as a screening material shall be prohibited.
(2) After screening is installed, all trash containers, dumpsters and/or trash collection areas shall not be visible from any public or private roadway.
(3) Whenever screening material is placed around any trash disposal unit or waste collection unit, which is emptied or removed mechanically on a regular basis, a curb to contain the placement of the container shall be provided within the screening material. The curbing shall be at least one foot from the screening material and shall be designed to prevent possible damage to the screening when the container is moved or emptied.
(Ord. 2022-24. Passed 5-24-22.)