1. Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to aid in beautifying and shading the Village by providing consistent and appropriately spaced street trees.
2. Applicability. The requirements of this Section apply to existing and proposed parkway area(s) adjacent to new developments that require site plan review or planned development approval.
3. Street Tree Requirements. Refer to the South Elgin Tree Species List of allowed plant species.
a. Frequency. Shade trees shall be installed at a minimum rate of one large shade tree per 30 linear feet. Trees shall be placed on center, or at a rate that matches the existing tree spacing pattern on adjacent parkways, whichever results in a greater density of tree plantings. Spacing may be adjusted to ensure adequate room for streetlights and utilities, with prior written Zoning Administrator approval.
b. Tree Wells. Tree wells shall be utilized in locations where the sidewalk extends from the back of the curb to the lot line.
c. Structural Soil. A minimum volume of 1,000 cubic feet of structural soil is required per large shade tree to accommodate subsurface root expansion. Whenever possible, tree plantings should be located to connect subsurface root spaces. A minimum soil depth of 36 inches and minimum planting bed width of six feet is required for all tree planting areas, per § 156.09.C.1.b (Soil Requirements).
d. Drought and Salt Tolerance. All street trees proposed to be planted shall be drought- and salt-tolerant. Refer to South Elgin Tree Species List for preferred plant species.