§ 212-32. Landscaping.

[Amended 9-10-1991 by Ord. No. 806; 12-13-1994 by Ord. No. 878; 11-13-2007 by Ord. No. 1188, § 2; 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240, § 17; 5-14-2013 by Ord. No. 13-1272, §§ 1–4; 1-8-2019 by Ord. No. 19-1347, §§1, 2]

   A.   Intent. The intent of these regulations is to promote practical, sustainable, and orderly community development by minimizing tree loss and adding new trees and plants; minimizing soil erosion and sedimentation and stimulating groundwater recharge; preventing and reducing light and heat pollution; stimulating air purification and oxygen regeneration; providing for noise abatement and visual buffering; maintaining and conserving the Township’s natural amenities; and to provide for the harmonious development of contiguous properties in different zoning districts. This intent shall be achieved by requiring certain minimum landscaping requirements for all land developments and subdivisions . [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   B.   General landscape requirements.

      (1)   The provisions in these regulations are not intended to restrict existing residential owners from planting or removing trees and shrubs from their property, except in the case of effective property line screening and bufferings. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (2)   The standards of design for this section should be used to judge the adequacy of subdivision or land development proposals. Where, in the opinion of the Township Commissioners, the literal application of these standards in certain cases would work undue hardship, they may recommend reasonable exceptions as will not be contrary to the public interest. The Board of Commissioners may modify or adjust the standards to permit reasonable utilization of property while securing substantial conformance with the objectives of the regulations.

      (3)   The standards included in these regulations are minimum design requirements. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to request that the landscaping in any plan exceed the requirements listed herein if conditions so warrant.

      (4)   It is required that all Landscape Plans be prepared and sealed by a landscape architect registered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and familiar with this section in order to promote the proper use and arrangement of plant materials. The seal may be omitted for a two-lot  subdivision . These Plans shall be reviewed by the staff and consultants and voted upon by the Township Board of Commissioners. [Amended 6- 14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (5)   Required plant material shall be planted prior to the issuance of a permanent use and occupancy permit. In lieu of planting due to seasonal constraints, the locations of plantings will be staked, and the developer or landowner will be required to submit to the Township an agreement signed by the purchaser at the time of settlement. This agreement will indicate that the purchaser understands and acknowledges that the stakes indicate the locations of trees to be planted and that the trees will be planted by the developer or landowner as soon as the weather permits but no longer than six months after the date of the agreement. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (6)   All plant material shall meet the standards of the American Standard for Nursery Stock by the American Association of Nurserymen, or most recent edition. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (7)   All plant material shall be installed in accordance with the Township’s planting standards and specifications. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (8)   All plant materials shall be guaranteed for a period of 18 months following final approval by the Township, except where otherwise noted in this section. Any plant material that has 25% or greater dead branches shall be considered dead. A tree shall be considered dead when the main leader has died or 25% of the crown is dead. Any dead material shall be replaced and installed according to approved planting practices.

      (9)   The Township shall make a final inspection for acceptance at the end of the guaranty period. This inspection will be performed when plant materials are in full leaf only (May 1 through November 15). All guaranty escrow funds will be released upon acceptance following the end of the guaranty period. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (10)   Non-conforming uses , special exceptions and conditional uses . Whenever there is a non- conforming use , special exception or conditional use , the use shall comply with the more restrictive landscape requirements for either the land use or the zoning district in which it is located. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (11)   Redevelopment/retrofits of existing non-residentially used lots . If only a portion of an existing non-residentially used parcel is being redeveloped/renovated, then only the area being redeveloped/renovated shall be required to comply with the provisions of this Section proportionately. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (12)   All landscape material to be installed shall account for the growth, size and pattern to allow adequate area and spacing at maturity. [Added 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (13)   All plantings shall be arranged to provide clear sight triangles at street intersections and shall not obstruct any sight distance requirements. The clear sight triangles shall be 100 feet at primary or lesser street classifications and shall be 125 feet on arterial or greater street classifications. [Added 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   C.   When a landscape plan is required. A landscape plan shall be submitted with all preliminary and final land development plans and subdivision applications. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   D.   Definitions. Unless otherwise expressly stated, for the purposes of these regulations, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

      CALIPER — The dimension of a trunk diameter measured six inches above grade for trees four inches in diameter or less, and at 12 inches above grade for trees greater than four inches in diameter. Such measurements apply to trees to be planted as a component of the landscape plan .

      DIAMETER — The dimension of a trunk of an existing tree measured outside edge to outside edge of the bark and at breast height (4 feet) above grade .

      DECIDUOUS — The type of tree or shrub drops or sheds its foliage in the fall and grows new leaves in the spring.

      EVERGREEN — A tree or shrub that does not drop its foliage in the fall and generally maintains a green color year round.

      FLOWERING/UNDERSTORY TREE — Generally a small or mid-sized tree commonly inhabiting the understory layer.

      LANDSCAPE PLAN — A plan developed expressly for showing the location, size, quantity and species of existing and proposed plant material, to include trees , shrubs , ground cover , seeding and sodding. Information shall include planting details, plant schedules and general notes and specifications pertaining to installation and maintenance of the plant material.

      MONOCULTURE — A planting of trees or shrubs that is comprised of the same species for each installed element as determined by its Latin name.

      NATURALIZED LANDSCAPE — An established assemblage of plant material that utilizes all native trees , plants and grasses that are suitable to the physical and natural conditions of the site or site  improvement .

      SCREEN BUFFER — A perimeter landscape planting for the purposes of providing a formal separation between neighboring uses . Such a buffer may be required if the new land development or land uses are the same as the adjacent zoning or land use . A screen buffer is intended to be comprised of evergreen species and to be an impenetrable visual screen after five years. It is not intended to be a monoculture of one plant species.

      SHADE/CANOPY TREE — A tree , typically deciduous with a single straight trunk that matures to a height of 40+ feet which results in it becoming part of the canopy or uppermost layer.

      SOFTENING BUFFER — A perimeter landscape planting for the purpose of providing an informal separation between neighboring uses . It shall utilize a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs per the requirements in Table 1 19 and is not intended to be an impenetrable visual screen .

      STREET TREE — A shade/canopy tree with a single trunk located adjacent to a street , road or pedestrian right of way and outside the street  right-of-way with distances as specified in this section of the Code.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   E.   Information required to be shown on the landscape plan .

      (1)   The landscape plan submission shall show the following existing and proposed information:

         (a)   Plan scale, date, north arrow and location map with zoning district designations and current land use (s) for the site and all adjacent properties. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (b)   Property lines, setback lines, easements and rights-of-ways. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   Location of the footprints for all buildings . [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (d)   Location of all roads, parking, service areas and other impervious or porous site  improvements . [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (e)   Location of all outside storage and trash/recyclable receptacle areas. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (f)   Locations of sidewalks, berms, fences, walls, freestanding signs and site lighting.

         (g)   Locations of all underground, surface and above grade utilities, such as sanitary and storm sewers, water, electric, cable, TV, data lines, utility easements , transformers, hydrants, manholes, inlets and mechanical equipment. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (h)   Location, diameter, and species of existing individual trees with trunks eight inches or more in diameter. Trees in hedge rows, groves or woodlands with trunk diameters of eight inches or more may be shown by indicating the outer canopy edge or drip line of the tree grouping. Existing trees shown as masses must be labeled with an approximate quantity as counted or calculated. The total number of existing trees shall be included on the Plan. If the site contains 20 or more trees , then a separate tree survey plan showing the location and diameter of individual trees over eight inches in diameter is to be included. The tree survey plan is to be at the same scale of the site  plan as submitted. The drawing is to be sealed by a professional land surveyor or registered landscape architect. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (i)   A schedule listing existing trees eight inches or greater in diameter to be removed by the proposed development. The schedule shall indicate the botanical and common name, height, spread, diameter, quantity and special remarks for all trees proposed for removal. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (j)   A planting schedule listing all new plant materials (trees , shrubs and ground cover ) proposed to be installed as part of the project. This schedule shall indicate the botanical and common name, height, spread, caliper, quantity and special remarks for all proposed plant materials. Symbols may be utilized in the planting schedule and on the landscape plan to simplify and clarify the plan . [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (k)   Plans shall be drawn to a scale of not less than one inch equals 40 feet (1"=40') and shall show all existing and proposed contours at two-foot intervals. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (l)   Details and specifications for the planting and staking of trees , the planting of shrubs , establishment of ground covers by seed and/or plug, and installation of any hardscape or landscape features, including landscape furnishings such as benches, bike racks, bollards , etc. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (m)   Existing natural features, such as streams and creeks, water bodies, floodplains , wetlands, rock outcroppings and slopes in excess of 25%. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (n)   Location of all proposed plant materials to include trees , shrubs , ground cover , including perennials, annuals, meadow and/or lawn. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (o)   Information in the form of notes or specifications pertaining to planting and lawn areas. Such information shall specify the quality requirements and material for planting and staking, seeding, sodding, ground cover establishment, mulching and the like. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (p)   Using a graphic symbol, the limits and details of temporary tree protection fencing proposed to protect existing trees and shrubs from equipment damage during construction. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (q)   Interior parking lot green space calculations for parking lots larger than 5,000 square feet shall have a minimum landscape area of 10%. The area of the parking lot shall be measured from five feet outside the edge of the paving, or face of curb, where applicable, if the outside area is planted or turfed. Green space may include tree islands, rain gardens, planted or turfed corners and the outside perimeter of parking lots if they are planted or turfed. Green space to be considered shall be depicted graphically on the plan and the calculation shall appear on the drawings in the following form:

 

Total Green Space	Parking Lot Area	Percent of Parking Lot Devoted to Green Space
square feet (numerator)	square feet (denominator)	.         %

 

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (r)   A table showing compliance with each section of the Code is required. Landscape plans shall use symbols or labels to indicate which plant material meets which code requirement. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   F.   Specific planting requirements. Street  trees , softening buffers , screen buffers , general on-site screening, parking area landscaping, detention basin landscaping and individual lot landscaping shall be provided according to the following standards :

      (1)   Street  trees .

         (a)   When required.

            [1]   Street  tree planting requirements applicable to each zoning district are listed in Table 1. 19.1

            [2]   Street  trees shall be required for any subdivision or land development where suitable street  trees do not exist. Areas requiring such street  trees shall include:

               [a]   New streets .

               [b]   New sidewalks or pedestrian ways.

               [c]   Existing streets , sidewalks, pedestrian ways, highways, bicycle trails or pathways when they abut or lie within the subdivision or land develop ment.

               [d]   Access driveways to residential developments serving three or more single-family residences.

               [e]   Access driveways to nonresidential developments .

         (b)   Location.

            [1]   Street  trees shall be spaced to permit the healthy growth of each tree . In no instance shall they be closer than 50 feet on center nor further than 75 feet on center for each side of the street . The length of frontage may be reduced for calculation purposes by the right of way of intersecting street (s).

            [2]   Street  trees shall be planted no closer than two feet nor more than 15 feet outside the street  right-of-way , as measured to the center of the trunk; street  trees shall be planted no closer than eight feet to any public sidewalk.

            [3]   At intersections, trees shall be located no closer than 40 feet from the intersection of the curbs and must be outside the clear sight triangle .

            [4]   Where trees exist along a roadway, existing healthy shade trees over eight inches in diameter within 20 feet of the curb face or edge of pavement may be counted toward the street  tree requirement. Where existing street  trees are over 75 feet apart, new shade trees shall be planted between these existing trees at a spacing of no greater than 75 feet on center and no less or closer than 25 feet to any existing tree .

            [5]   Street  trees may be grouped (in groups of three or more) or planted in an informal arrangement, if appropriate to the area. The number of trees as calculated by the above standard shall be equal or greater quantity and may be spaced a minimum of 40 feet on center with appropriate species and with no spacing or gaps between tree groupings greater than 150 feet.

            [6]   Street  trees shall not be planted over underground utilities or beneath overhead utility lines. If utility lines are present or proposed, the street  trees shall be shown at a distance of no less than 10 feet nor more than 25 feet from the center line of the overhead or underground utility. Where this is not possible due to space limitations or other reasons, the species of street tree shall be changed to a species that grows to a lower mature height as recommended by the Township consultants.

         (c)   Plant material requirements (size, type and quality standards ).

            [1]   Street  trees shall be a minimum of two and one half inches in caliper. Trees shall meet the general specifications for height and spread in relationship to caliper for shade trees as stated in the American Standard for Nursery Stock by the American Association of Nurserymen. All branches shall be pruned to a clearance height of seven feet above the ground No side branching on tree trunks will be allowed below six feet eight inches from the ground. Trees shall have a single, straight trunk and central leader and be free of disease and mechanical damage. Tree leaders shall not be cut. Recommended street  tree species are found in Subsection I, Recommended plant list.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (2)   Softening buffer .

         (a)   When required.

            [1]   Softening buffer planting requirements applicable to each zoning district or land use are listed in Table 1 at the end of this chapter.

            [2]   A softening buffer is required along the perimeter of a site proposed for land development or subdivision . Existing healthy trees and shrubs meeting the requirements of Table 1 19.2 may be counted in satisfying those requirements. A softening buffer is not required along internal side and rear yard lines of new lots created by a proposed residential development.

            [3]   The buffer area shall be 25 feet in width and used for no purpose other than planting of trees and shrubs to meet planting requirements. The area may include a well or fence provided it does not exceed six feet in height. Any wall or fence shall be constructed in such a manner that it will not conflict with the character of the abutting district or land use .

            [4]   The applicant may not be required to provide buffer planting when existing planting, topography and/or man-made structures are shown on the plans and serve the same purpose.

            [5]   A softening buffer is not required where a screen buffer is provided.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (b)   Location. Required buffer plantings, shall be aligned adjacent to property lines or rights-of-way boundaries but may be positioned elsewhere on the property with the recommendation of Township staff or consultants and approved by the Board of Commissioners. An innovative and free-form arrangement of the required plant material is encouraged. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   Plant material requirements. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [1]   Not more than 35% of plants shall be evergreen. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [2]   Deciduous and semi-deciduous plants may be used with evergreen species to provide color and a softer, more interesting and natural effect. [Amended 6- 14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [3]   All plant material used shall meet minimum height requirements as stated in Subsection I, Recommended plant list.

      (3)   Screen buffer .

         (a)   When required. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [1]   Screen buffer planting requirements applicable to each zoning district or land use are listed in Table 2 at the end of the chapter. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [2]   If a screen buffer exists, this requirement may be reduced or eliminated, upon the recommendation of Township staff or consultants and approval by the Board of Commissioners. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [3]   In addition, all truck loading, outside storage areas, mechanical equipment and trash receptacles shall be screened from view from streets and abutting residential areas in accordance with the standards for screen buffer size and type, as found in Table 2, Screen Buffer Requirements. 20

            [4]   The buffer area shall be used for no purpose other than planting of trees , shrubs and lawn to meet planting requirements. [Amended 11-13-2007 by Ord. No. 1188]

         (b)   Location.

            [1]   The screen buffer is to provide a visual barrier between adjacent land uses . The screen buffer shall be 30 feet in width and aligned adjacent to property lines or ultimate rights-of-way boundaries or may be positioned elsewhere on the property upon the recommendation of Township staff or consultants and approval by the Board of Commissioners. [Amended 5-14-2013 by Ord. No. 13-1272]

            [2]   The screen planting shall be broken only at points of vehicular/pedestrian access and easements where plantings are prohibited.

            [3]   Screen buffers are not required in front yards .

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   Plant material requirements.

            [1]   Trees used for screen buffers shall be composed of a minimum of 80% evergreen varieties. Shrubs may be a combination of evergreen and deciduous species. At the same time the required plant material shall be so arranged as to provide a visual screen of 50% and at least eight feet in height. Where the screen buffer planting requires more than 50 trees , no more than half of these trees may be of a single species.

            [2]   Walls, ornamental structures , fences and earth berms, or a combination of these, may be used in combination with appropriate plant material, upon the recommendation of Township staff or consultants and approval of the Board of Commissioners.

            [3]   Recommended evergreen tree species used for screening are found in Subsection I, Recommended plant list. Spacing requirements are included in Table 1. 21

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (4)   Parking area landscaping. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (a)   Landscaping requirements applicable to each zoning district or land use are listed in Table 1. 22  Selected plant material shall account for the sub base conditions, especially related to acid and alkaline sub base rock and ballast. [Amended 6-14- 2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (b)   In addition to the trees and shrubs required for buffers and parking areas, a minimum of 10% of any parking lot over 5,000 square feet in gross area shall be devoted to landscaping. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   A maximum of 12 parking spaces shall be permitted in a row without a landscape island. This island shall contain not less than 400 square feet of planting area with a minimum island width of 20 feet and one shade tree , or flowering trees , of a size and type suitable to the parking lot. Where area restrictions exist, flowering trees may be used upon the recommendation of Township staff or consultants and approval by the Board of Commissioners. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11- 1240]

         (d)   Raised continuous curbing shall be required around all planting islands, except those used for stormwater management such as rain gardens where openings are needed. In addition, curbed planting islands shall be placed at the end of each row of parking spaces which begins or terminates at an internal circulation drive. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (e)   For any land use where the total number of parking spaces exceeds 100 stalls, the parking area shall be divided by continuous islands perpendicular to the spaces every 120 feet. (One hundred twenty feet assumes four rows of parking and two aisles.) These divider islands shall be a minimum of 15 feet wide.

         (f)   In addition to the above, any parking area over 4,000 square feet in area closer than 50 feet to a public street  right-of-way or to any residential district shall have a continuous row of shrubs , fence, wall, earth berm or a combination of these to a minimum height of three feet six inches at time of installation between the street or residential district and the parking area.

         (g)   Recommended shade tree species are found in Subsection I, Recommended plant list.

      (5)   Detention basin landscaping.

         (a)   The basin landscaping shall be so designed that the plantings in and adjacent to it shall not have a negative effect on the hydrological function of the basin.

         (b)   Drainageways, detention basins and retention ponds shall be aesthetically pleasing and compatible with the adjacent land use . Creative grading , innovative basin forms and naturalized plantings and groundcovers shall be employed where feasible. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   Basin floors and sides.

            [1]   Floors dry most of the year shall be landscaped in one or a combination of the following:

               [a]   Turf (seeded, hydro-seeded or sodded).

               [b]   Seeded in low-maintenance naturalized mix that includes groundcovers with warm season meadow grasses and wildflowers. Commercial mixes shall be matched to site conditions.

               [c]   All-season ground cover .

            [2]   Basin floors, portions of a floor or channels which are wet most of the year shall be landscaped in one or a combination of the following:

               [a]   Wet habitat grasses and ground covers .

               [b]   Seeded in low-maintenance, naturalized mix that include groundcovers with warm season meadow grasses and wildflower. Commercial mixes shall be matched to wet site conditions.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (d)   Basin perimeter plantings.

            [1]   Basin perimeter planting requirements applicable to each zone or land use are listed in Table 1. 22.1 To promote diversity, up to 50% of the shade trees may be substituted with an option of two flowering trees, two evergreen trees or 10 shrubs for every shade tree. No plantings shall be placed on the fill area of the berm acting as an impoundment structure. Trees and shrubs shall not be planted in the basin floor.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (e)   Recommended tree and shrub species are found in Subsection I, Recommended plant list. [Added 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (6)   Individual lot landscaping.

         (a)   When required.

            [1]   Individual lot landscaping includes those areas of the site not covered by Subsection F(1) through (5) above.

            [2]   Lot landscaping requirements applicable to each zone or land use are listed in Table 1. 23

            [3]   Lot landscape requirements shall not be met for any lot by the transplanting of other plant material from the subject lot or lots created as part of this application, unless approved as provided in this Chapter (Subsection G).

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (b)   Location. Trees specified under this section shall be planted on the lot . They may be planted within the general open space of the subdivision or land development , upon recommendation by Township consultants and approval by the Board of Commissioners. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

         (c)   Plant material requirements. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

            [1]   Trees shall be a minimum of three inches in caliper and of a recommended species listed in Subsection I, Recommended plant list.

            [2]   To permit greater diversity and interest, up to 50% of the shade tree requirement may be substituted with an option of two flowering trees , two evergreen trees , and ten shrubs for each shade tree . Substitute plan material shall be from the Recommended Plant List, Subsection I, and refer to Note No. 1 on Table 1. 23.1 [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (7)   Landscaping on Slopes .

         (a)   When required. Landscaping shall be required on disturbed areas of the site with slopes in excess of one foot vertical to 4 feet horizontal (4:1 or 25% slope ).

         (b)   Plant material requirements.

            [1]   Sodded lawn and/or ground cover plantings are required on all slopes of between 25% and 33%. [Amended 5-14-2013 by Ord. No. 13-1272]

            [2]   Ground cover plantings are required on slopes of 33% or greater (one foot vertical to three feet horizontal).

         (c)   Supplemental plantings. Supplemental plantings may be applied toward the replacement tree requirements of Subsection H, except where these plantings are required by other sections of this chapter. Supplemental plantings of shade trees , ornamental trees and evergreen trees and shrubs may be planted as a part of landscaping on slopes .

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (8)   Watercourse  Buffers

         (a)   When required.

            [1]   Watercourse  buffer planting requirements applicable to each zoning district or land use are listed in Table 1. 23.2 [Amended 5-14-2013 by Ord. No. 13- 1272]

            [2]   Buffers are required along all permanent and intermittent streams and watercourses where they cross a property. Where existing healthy vegetation exists it must be retained. It must be supplemented per the requirements of this chapter.

            [3]   Buffers must be provided on each side of the stream or watercourses except when the waterway forms the property boundary, in which case the buffer is required only on the subject property side.

         (b)   Location. Buffers shall be aligned with the stream/creek embankment or watercourse edge.

         (c)   Plant material requirements.

            [1]   Buffers must be a minimum of 35 feet for unnamed watercourses , 50 feet for named waterways and 100 feet for Sandy Run and Wissahickon Creek. Named waterways are: Rose Valley Creek (North and South Branches), Tannery Run, Honey Run, Small Creek, Rapp Run, and Pine Run.

            [2]   Buffer plantings must be selected based on site conditions, and in particular with respect to flow, flooding, soil wetness and elevation.

            [3]   Plant diversity and informal planting schemes are recommended to replicate natural streamside buffers and habitat.

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (9)   Landscaping of Other Areas. Any area not used for buildings , structures , paved areas, planting beds, or screening shall be planted in an all-season ground cover or lawn and other landscape materials. Wherever possible, healthy and suitable existing vegetative materials shall be preserved. [Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

      (10)   Existing Vegetation. In cases where preserved natural features existing on the subject site duplicate, or essentially duplicate, the planting requirements of this chapter, these requirements may be waived or amended upon the recommendation of Township consultants and approval by the Board of Commissioners. [Added 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   G.   Preservation and Protection of Existing Trees .

      (1)   All subdivisions and land developments shall be laid out in such a manner so as to preserve the healthy trees and shrubs on the site , whenever possible. Special care must be taken to preserve trees over 20 inches in diameter and trees standing in groves. Special care shall include avoiding woodland fragmentation, protecting native species, and removing invasive plant species. The Township may refuse approval of any plan showing the unnecessary destruction of healthy trees and shrubs , particularly those for which special care is required. Financial benefit to the developer will not constitute a sufficient reason to avoid compliance with this subsection.

      (2)   During the construction of any site , trees and shrubs , as defined herein, shall be protected by temporary fencing to ensure that there is no encroachment or disturbance within the area of their dripline by changing grade , trenching, stockpiling of building materials or topsoil or compacting the soil and roots by any equipment. In addition, the following regulations shall apply:

         (a)   Existing trees where the root zone (dripline) has been encroached upon are not to be counted as preserved.

         (b)   Existing trees where trunks are within five feet of proposed sidewalks, walkways or driveways , or within 10 feet of proposed roadways are not to be counted as preserved.

         (c)   At the direction of the Township staff or consultants, existing trees which have not been adequately protected or have been significantly damaged are to be removed.

         (d)   Standing trees that are confirmed by the Township staff or consultants as dead or substantially in decline or stressed or invasive species that are undesirable for the site or site conditions will not be counted as preserved and shall be removed.

      (3)   The foregoing requirements for trees in Subsection F(1), (2), (3), (4) and (8) (street  trees , softening buffers , screen buffer , parking area, and watercourse  buffers ) shall be met by preserving existing healthy, native trees . To that end, the number of trees required by these subsections may be reduced by a credit for approved preserved trees as follows:

         (a)   Approved preserved trees eight inches or greater in diameter remaining on an individual lot may offset the requirements as noted herein on a ratio set forth in Subsection (d). For example, if two eight-inch healthy native shade trees are preserved on a lot , two trees may be deducted from the calculated requirements.

         (b)   A preserved tree may not be used to offset more than one landscape code requirement.

         (c)   Transplanting plant material within the subject property may be permitted when unusual or unique conditions exist, such as crowding, a change in site conditions or prior planting conditions (e.g., nursery.)

         (d)   Credits for approved preserved trees to offset landscape code requirements shall be calculated as follows:

 

Diameter of Trunk of Approved Preserved Tree (inches)	Number of Tree Credits
37 or greater	5
25 to 36	4
13 to 24	2
8 to 12	1

 

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   H.   Replacing Trees Destroyed by Development.

      (1)   Where more than 25% of the existing trees have been removed, every remaining tree , eight inches in diameter or more, which is destroyed because of site  improvements shall be replaced. It is intended that tree replacement be the initial steps towards re- establishing woodland and reforestation. Replacement shall be according to the following formula:

         (a)   One-third of the required replacement trees shall be shade trees at a ratio of one shade tree to one removed tree (1:1).

         (b)   One-third shall be flowering trees and evergreen trees at a ratio of two flower ing/evergreen trees to one removed tree (2:1).

         (c)   One-third shall be shrubs at a ratio of ten shrubs to one removed tree (10:1), or, all or some part of this third may be groundcover at a ratio of 40 groundcover plants to one removed tree (40:1).

      (2)   Replacement plant material shall be positioned, spaced and planted to replicate a native woodland or forest and near other woodland where possible to expand existing woodland areas. All species are to be selected from Subsection I, Recommended Plant List.

         (a)   Such new plant material shall be planted in addition to that required in Subsection F above.

         (b)   Replacement trees must be planted in common areas within and between lots rather than as foundation plantings around individual structures .

         (c)   Recommended sizes and species of shade trees , evergreen trees , flowering trees , shrubs and groundcovers are listed in Subsection I.

      (3)   Calculation and estimation of existing trees before construction shall be performed based on the following procedure:

         (a)   Healthy trees over eight inches in diameter standing alone will be documented individually and noted on the landscape plan . Dead trees or trees in severe decline shall be omitted.

         (b)   The quantity of large trees standing in masses of over 10 trees shall be estimated by the following method:

            [1]   Three 100 by100-foot square areas will be staked out in locations acceptable to the owner/developer and the Township staff or consultants.

            [2]   The quantity of trees in each area will be counted and the totals averaged to determine the average number of trees per 10,000 square feet of wooded area.

            [3]   This average quantity per area shall serve as a representative sample and will be used to determine both the quantity of trees being removed and the quantity of trees to remain in large masses.

      (4)   Calculation and estimation of existing trees remaining after construction shall be prepared by the applicant and confirmed by Township staff or consultants based on the procedure noted above.

      (5)   Calculations of the required replacements for existing trees eight inches or more in diameter removed during construction shall be submitted by the applicant and confirmed by Township staff or consultants based on the following formula:

         (a)   Twenty-five percent of the total number of existing trees on the site may be removed without the need for replacement.

         (b)   If more than 25% but less than 75% of the total number of existing trees are to be removed, the replacement quantity shall be based on a 1:1 ratio and the plant material selected based on woodland replacement criteria as stated above in Subsection H(1).

         (c)   If 75% or more of the existing trees are to be removed, the calculation of replacement trees for the last 25% of the trees removed shall be at a ratio of 2:1; two new two and one half inch caliper shade trees for each existing tree removed. The replacement plant material shall be based on the woodland replacement criteria as stated above in Subsection H(1).

      (6)   The total number of trees on site before construction, the total number of trees proposed to be removed and the total quantity of required replacement trees are to be listed on the landscape plan .

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240]

   I.   Recommended plant list. The following is the recommended list of trees, shrubs and ground cover for use in Upper Dublin Township. However, the Board of Commissioners may permit other planting types if they are hardy to the area, are not subject to blight or disease and are of the same general character and growth habit as those listed below. Substitutions for suitable plants not listed will be considered on a case by case basis. Any plant material proposed for use and not listed must be reviewed and recommended for approval by Township staff or consultants and approved by the Board of Commissioners.

      (1)   Shade/canopy trees : minimum two and one half inches caliper,* 12 to 14 feet high, eight feet minimum spread, clear trunk to seven feet above the ground and full branching structure .

         Acer rubrum - Red Maple

         Acer saccharum - Sugar Maple*

         Aesculus glabra - Buckeye

         Betula nigra - River Birch

         Carpinus betulus - European Hornbeam*

         Carya glabra - Pignut Hickory

         Carya ovata - Shagbark Hickory

         Cercidiphyllum japonicum - Katsura Tree*

         Corylus colurna - Turkish Filbert*

         Fagus (species) - Beech

         Ginko biloba - Ginko (male only)*

         Gleditsia triacanthos - Common Honeylocust

         Gleditsia triacanthos inermis - Thornless Common Honeylocust

         Gymnocladus dioicus - Kentucky Coffeetree

         Juglans cinera - Butternut

         Juglans nigra - Black Walnut

         Larix decidua - Larch

         Liquidambar styraciflua - Sweetgum

         Liriodendron tulipifera - Tulip Poplar

         Metasequoia glyptostroboides - Dawn Redwood

         Nyssa sylvatica - Black Gum

         Platanus x acerifolia - London Planetree

         Platanus occidentallis - Sycamore

         Quercus acutissima - Sawtooth Oak*

         Quercus alba - White Oak

         Quercus bicolor - Swamp White Oak

         Quercus imbricaria - Shingle Oak*

         Quercus macrocarpa - Bur Oak

         Quercus palustris - Pin Oak

         Salix alba - White Willow

         Salix babylonica - Weeping Willow

         Sophora japonica - Scholar-tree*

         Tilia cordata - Littleleaf Linden

         Ulmus (hybrid species) - Elm*

         Zelkova (species) - Zelkova*

         * Suitable for street  trees

         * Nursery grown trees four inches caliper or less are measured at six inches above ground level as defined by the American Association of Nurserymen. Nursery grown trees of greater than four-inch caliper are measured at 12 inches above the ground level.

      (2)   Evergreen trees : minimum eight feet in height, four-foot minimum spread,* single leader, symmetrically branching to the ground.

         Abies concolor - Concolor Fir

         Abies fraseri - Fraser Fir

         Cedrus (species) - Cedar

         Chamaecyparis (species) - False Cypress

         Ilex opaca - American Holly

         Juniperus virginiana - Eastern Red Cedar

         Picea abies - Norway Spruce

         Picea glauca - White Spruce

         Picea omorika - Serbian Spruce

         Picea pungens - Colorado Spruce

         Pinus bungeana - Lacebark Pine**

         Pinus flexilis - Limber Pine**

         Pinus strobus - White Pine**

         Pseudotsuga menziesii - Douglas Fir

         * = Spread may be less than four feet for upright or columnar varieties.

         ** = Not to be used for buffer plantings.

      (3)   Flowering understory trees : minimum eight feet in height, five-foot minimum spread, symmetrically branched to within four feet from the ground.

         Acer ginnala - Amur Maple

         Acer griseum - Paperbark Maple

         Amelanchier (species) - Serviceberry

         Amelanchier Canadensis - Shadblow Serviceberry

         Carpinus caroliniana - Ironwood

         Cercis canadensis - Redbud

         Cladrastus Cladrastis lutea - Yellowwood

         Cornus (species) - Dogwood

         Crataegus (species) - Hawthorne

         Halesia carolina - Carolina Silverbell

         Koelreuteria paniculata - Golden Rain Tree

         Magnolia (species) - Magnolia

         Malus (species) - Crabapples (disease resistant varieties)

         Ostrya virginiana - American Hornbeam

         Oxydendrum arboreum - Sourwood

         Prunus (species) - Cherries and Plums (disease resistant varieties)

         Sassafras albidum - Sassafras

      (4)   Deciduous shrubs : 30-inch minimum height, 24-inch minimum spread and symmetrically branched to the ground.

         Abelia x grandiflora - Glossy Abelia

         Aesculus parviflora - Bottlebrush Buckeye

         Aronia arbutifolia - Red Chokeberry

         Callicarpa bodinieri - Beautyberry

         Calycanthus floridus - Sweetbrush

         Cephalanthus occidentalis - Buttonbush

         Chaenomeles speciosa - Common Flowering Quince

         Cornus sericea - Redosier Dogwood

         Corylopsis glabrescens - Fragrant Winterhazel

         Cotoneaster (species) - Cotoneaster

         Cytisus scoparius - Scotch Broom

         Daphne odora - Fragrant Daphne

         Deutzia gracilis - Slender Deutzia

         Enkianthus campanulatus - Redvein Enkianthus

         Forsythia (species) - Forsythia

         Fothergilla gardenii - Dwarf Fothergilla

         Hamamelis (species) - Witchhazel

         Hydrangea (species) - Hydrangea

         Hypericum prolificum - St. Johnswort

         Ilex verticillata - Winterberry Holly

         Itea virginica - Virginia Sweetspire

         Jasminum nudiflorum - Winter Jasmine

         Kalmia latifolia - Mountain Laurel

         Ligustrum amurense - Amur Privet

         Lindera benzoin - Spicebush

         Lonicera fragrantissima - Winter Honeysuckle

         Myrica pensylvanica - Northern Bayberry

         Philadelphus coronarius - Mockorange

         Physocarpus opulifolius - Common Ninebark

         Rhus (species) - Sumac

         Skimmia japonica - Japanese Skimmia

         Spiraea (species) - Spiraea (except spiraea japonica)

         Syringa (species) Lilac

         Vaccinium corymbosum - Highbush Blueberry

         Viburnum (species) - Viburnum

         Weigelia florida - Weigelia

      (5)   Evergreen shrubs : 24-inch minimum height, 18-inch minimum spread and symmetrically branched to the ground.

         Berberis (species) - Barberry (except berberis thunbergii and berberis vulgaris)

         Buxus (species) - Boxwood

         Cupressocyparis leylandii - Leyland Cypress

         Ilex (species) - Holly

         Juniperus (species) - Juniper

         Leucothoe fontanesiana - Leucothoe

         Mahonia aquifolium - Oregon Hollygrape

         Osmanthus heterophyllus - Osmanthus

         Pieris (species) - Pieris

         Prunus laurocerasus - Cherrylaurel

         Rhododendron (species) - Rhododendron

         Taxus (species) - Yews

         * Height and spread requirements may be reversed for spreading varieties of evergreen shrubs .

      (6)   Groundcover plants.

         (a)   Shrubs : heavily rooted plants in two gallon containers planted a maximum of 36 inches on center.

            Calluna vulgaris - Scotch Heather

            Cotoneaster (species) - Cotoneaster (low-growing and spreading cultivars)

            Erica (species) - heath

            Forsythia viridissima “Bronxensis”- Bronx Forsythia

            Juniperus horizontalis and Sabina species - Juniper

            Microbiota decussate - Siberian Cypress

            Stephanandra incisa - Cutleaf Stephanandra

            Symphoricarpos x chenaultii - Prostrate Chenault Coralberry

            Vaccinium macrocarpon “Lohzam” - Lohzam American Cranberry

         (b)   Herbaceous plants: heavily rooted plants in number 2 containers planted a minimum of 18 inches on center.

            Ajuga reptans - Bugleweed

            Gaultheria procumbens - Eastern Teaberry

            Liriope (species) - Lilly Turf

            Pachysandra terminalis - Japanese Pachysandra

            Vinca minor - Myrtle, Periwinkle

            Hardy Ferns

            Ornamental grasses

[Amended 6-14-2011 by Ord. No. 11-1240; 5-14-2013 by Ord. No. 13-1272; 1-8-2019 by Ord. No. 19-1347]

19. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

19.1. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

19.2. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

20. Editor’s Note: Table 2 is included at the end of this chapter.

21. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

22. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

22.1. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

23. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

23.1. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.

23.2. Editor’s Note: Table 1 is included at the end of this chapter.