(a) Existing features which would add value to residential development or natural or man-made assets of the City, such as trees, groves, woodlands, watercourses, vistas, historic spots, historic or architecturally significant buildings and similar irreplaceable assets should be preserved, insofar as is possible, through harmonious and careful design of subdivisions.
(b) Land to be subdivided shall be laid out and improved in reasonable conformity to existing topography, in order to minimize grading and cut and fill and to retain, insofar as is possible, the natural contours, limit storm water runoff and conserve the natural cover and soil.
(1970 Code Sec. 28.1-29)