The purpose of this chapter is to enhance the quality of the physical environment of the Village of Walton Hills by preserving existing trees and vegetation, planting new trees and vegetation, and controlling of the installation of fences and exterior lighting fixtures. The regulations contained herein are designed to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the Village by:
(a) Promoting the proper utilization of landscaping and screening as a buffer between certain land uses to minimize the possibility of nuisances including potential noise, glare, and the visual clutter associated with parking and service areas;
(b) Providing interruption of large expanses of vehicular use areas and reduction of reflected heat and glare through the implementation of interior and perimeter vehicular use area landscaping;
(c) Improving the appearance of off-street parking areas and vehicular use areas and properties abutting public rights-of-way;
(d) Providing areas of permeable surfaces in order to:
(1) Allow the infiltration of surface water into groundwater resources;
(2) Reduce the quantity of storm water discharge, which helps to reduce the hazards of flooding and aids in the control of erosion and storm water runoff; and,
(3) Improves the quality of storm water discharge.
(e) Establishing minimum standards for the consistent appearance of plant material in the community landscape;
(f) Controlling the installation of exterior lighting fixtures to prevent light pollution in the forms of light trespass and glare and to preserve, protect and enhance the character of the Village and the lawful nighttime use and enjoyment of property located within the Village;
(g) Protecting, preserving, and promoting the aesthetic character valued by the residents of the Village of Walton Hills.
(Ord. 2009-17. Passed 9-15-2009.)