(A) Purpose. The village recognizes the value of woodlands to the community in providing a rich and varied environment, watershed cover, soil protection, noise buffers, wildlife habitat, pollution purification, and a continuous supply of pure oxygen. Poorly planned development can lead to increased erosion and siltation, deterioration of water quality, loss of landscape diversity, increased danger of flooding, and reduced recreational opportunities. This section of this Zoning Code is intended to preserve and protect the character and purpose of woodland areas.
(B) Definition. For the purposes of this chapter, a WOODLAND is defined as an area or stand of trees the majority of which are greater than 12 inches caliper measured four feet above grade and covering an area greater than one-quarter acre; or groves of mature trees without regard to minimum area consisting of more than ten individual specimens.
(C) Permitted uses. Land and buildings within woodlands shall be used only for the following purposes:
(1) Single-family detached dwellings limited to minimum one acre lots and the designation of permanent no-build zones amounting to 60% of each lot;
(2) Accessory buildings and uses in association with a permitted dwelling;
(3) Home occupation in accordance with § 153.197;
(4) Public parks, open space, and nature areas; and
(5) Agricultural pursuits that do not reduce the tree cover, such as maple sap tapping.
(D) Development standards. The following are minimum development standards, except where noted, and shall apply within woodlands in addition to the applicable development standards of the underlying zoning district.
(1) Maximum lot coverage for all structures and accessory buildings and uses shall be 20%.
(2) On-site wastewater treatment and disposal and ground water generation shall not be permitted.
(3) Soil types shall be appropriate and suitable for residential development.
(4) Fire-retardant materials, as defined by the Warren County Building and Electrical Code.
(5) Landscape materials shall be native to central Ohio.
(6) Applicable standards shall be met in corresponding provisions of this chapter.
(E) Landscaping plan.
(1) The landscape plan, submittal requirements, and all other requirements and standards of this section shall apply to all structures and uses proposed within a woodland. The landscaping plan shall contain a natural resources inventory showing type, size, and location of all existing vegetation with a minimum caliper of six inches, and soil and topographical information.
(2) In reviewing the landscaping plan, the village may call upon the Tree Board and professional services from either the public or private sectors to assist in such evaluation.
(F) Variance. The Board of Zoning and Building Appeals may consider a request for a variance of the strict application of the requirements of this section; however, in doing so, the Board may only consider variances for nonresidential zoning districts and in granting a variance shall require the on-site comparable replacement of all removed trees as per the definition in division (B) of this section.
(Ord. 96-152, passed 10-7-1996)