(A) Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of this subchapter is to establish regulations to preserve and augment existing vegetation and trees, including the natural topography and any rock/boulder formations. Installation and maintenance of new landscaping shall be according to recognized xeriscape principles and Town of Payson requirements. Maintain existing and new landscaping in a living condition. It is the intent through this subchapter to accomplish the following:
(1) To protect the natural environment and preserve and enhance the mountain Ponderosa pine forest character of Payson, Arizona;
(2) Reduce air pollution and soil erosion by sustainable design practices;
(3) Preserve and create natural open spaces;
(4) Buffer adjacent parcels of land zoned for different uses or the same uses to maintain quality of life; (see chart titled Screening and Buffering § 154-03-002(E))
(5) Assist in groundwater recharge;
(6) Conservation of the natural aesthetic environment of this mountain community;
(7) Conservation of water; and
(8) To the extent feasible, promote and provide for the installation of the Town of Payson's official town tree, the Ponderosa pine.
(B) Applicability. Provisions of this subchapter shall be applicable to all the following:
(1) All development of any kind, including residential subdivisions, multi-family, commercial, industrial, and public facilities. Single family, two or three family residential units (e.g. duplexes and triplexes) are exempted from §§ 154-03-002 and 154-03-003.
(2) Expansion of, alteration of or change to an existing development. A building permit will not be issued for the expansion of a commercial, industrial, public facility or multi-family development that is not in full compliance with the provisions of this subchapter.
(3) All additional landscaping shall conform to the requirements of this subchapter.
(4) Any change in the use or occupancy of an existing building, buildings, or land shall conform to the requirements of this subchapter.
(Ord. 466, passed 2-22-96)