Landscape materials utilized in meeting requirements of this chapter should complement the form of existing trees and plantings, as well as the general design and architecture of the developed area. The type of sun or shade should be considered in selecting plant materials. Artificial plants are prohibited. All landscape materials shall be living plants and shall meet the following requirements.
(A) Deciduous trees. Trees which normally shed their leaves in the fall shall be species having an average mature crown spread of greater than 15 feet and having trunks which can be maintained with over five feet of clear wood in areas where visibility is required, except at vehicular use intersections, where the clear wood requirement shall be eight feet. A minimum of ten feet overall height, or a minimum caliper (trunk diameter as measured six inches above the ground) of at least two inches immediately after planting, shall be required. Trees of undesirable species, as cited in § 153.446, are prohibited.
(B) Evergreen trees. Evergreen trees shall be a minimum of three feet high with a minimum caliper of one inch immediately after planting.
(C) Undesirable species. In meeting the planting and maintenance requirements of this subchapter, the species of trees listed in § 153.446 shall not be utilized.
(D) Shrubs and hedges. Shrubs shall be at least two feet in average height when planted.
(E) Grass or ground cover. Grass of the fescue (Gramineae) or bluegrass (Poaceae) family shall be planted in spaces normally grown as permanent lawns, and may be sodded or seeded. In swales or similar areas subject to erosion, nets or suitable mulch shall be used; nurse grass shall be sown for immediate protection until complete coverage otherwise is achieved.
(2003 Code, § 153.439) (Ord. 3459, § 32.05, passed 3-7-2002) Penalty, see § 153.999