Whenever a buffer is required by this chapter, such buffer shall meet the following specifications, unless different specifications are given in the section where the buffer is required.
(A) A buffer shall consist of a fence with a minimum height of eight feet, which shall start a maximum distance of one inch above the ground, and shall be of such material as to present a visual barrier between the different property uses. The fencing must be approved by the Building Inspector.
(B) Buffers 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 of public utility installation is established, a buffer 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 to any R classification.
(C) All buffers shall become part of the lot(s) on which they are located, or in the case of commonly owned land, shall belong to the homeowners’ or property owners’ association.
(D) The buffers 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) If a natural screen is already in place which will adequately fulfill the purpose of a buffer, the Zoning Administrator may, in writing, allow a substitution of all or part of this screen for the buffer. Written permission of the Zoning Administrator shall be obtained before removing an existing natural buffer in the location of the required buffer strip.
(F) Where it is clear that a planting screen would thrive and provide adequate screening, the Zoning Administrator may allow a buffer strip to be planted instead of the fence. A buffer strip shall consist of a planted strip of land at least six feet in width, composed of deciduous and/or evergreen trees spaced not more than four feet apart, and not less than one row of dense evergreen shrubs spaced not less than five feet or more in height after one growing season, and maintained in a healthy, growing condition. No building or part of a building, driveway or parking area shall occupy any part of the buffer strips.
(G) For special and conditional uses, the Board may require a maintenance bond for the buffers as a condition of approval.
(1992 Code, § 152.041)