The applicant shall, first and foremost, follow the California Code of Regulations, Title 23. Waters, Division 2. Department of Water Resources, Chapter 2.7. Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO). The specific purposes of the landscape regulations are to:
(A) Improve the appearance of the community by encouraging aesthetically pleasing landscape on public and private sites;
(B) Aid in energy conservation by providing shade from the sun and shelter from the wind;
(C) Soften the appearance of parking lots and other development through the use of planting;
(D) Encourage conservation of water resources through the use of native and drought-tolerant plants with water-conserving irrigation practices;
(E) Minimize or eliminate conflicts between potentially incompatible but otherwise permitted land uses on adjoining lots through visual screening;
(F) Provide areas for residential gardening and raising of food crops;
(G) Preserve, maintain and provide new trees for the health and welfare of the city in order to preserve the scenic beauty, provide shade, enhance habitat, and promote the general welfare and prosperity of the city;
(H) Help restore the lost environmental value of the Los Angeles County flood control channels (Alhambra Wash, Rubio Wash) and enhance the washes as scenic community amenities;
(I) Enhance pedestrian use by encouraging shaded sidewalks and accessible passageways;
(J) Enhance the ability of water to soak into soil or drain through surfaces to reduce impacts on storm drain infrastructure and risks of flooding;
(K) Replenish the local aquifer by providing increased ground water recharge;
(L) Increase use of permeable and porous materials;
(M) Utilize the street and its ability to capture, treat and convey stormwater;
(N) Minimize heat island effect through the use of tree canopies and light colored materials for paving; and
(O) Provide and restore habitat for the local wildlife.
(Ord. 601-C.S., passed 3-4-14; Am. Ord. 622-C.S., passed 11-17-15)