A. Buffer screening between districts or parcels and uses shall not be required as set forth in section 9-3-10, "Buffers", of the city code, except as noted otherwise in this ordinance. The topography provides a natural buffer between the high density to the west and a significant amount of landscaping is required to be utilized along the eastern property line to provide a screening from the adjoining single-family lots to the east.
B. The development shall design buildings that work with the natural topography of the site to avoid the destruction of the slope.
C. The landscaping requirements specified herein are intended to foster aesthetically pleasing development which will enhance, protect and preserve the appearance, character, general health, safety and welfare of the city of West Des Moines.
1. Two (2) trees per three thousand (3,000) square feet of required green area.
2. Enhancements such as water features, benches, lighting and perennials shall be required within the activity/plaza areas. The exact number to be determined, by the community development director, during the review of the site plan.
3. No parking space, within a single row of parking, shall be greater than six (6) stalls from a landscape island or pod.
4. Landscape islands shall be located at the terminus end of parking rows. Islands shall be at least ten feet (10') in width by thirty eight feet (38') in length for dual parking rows and ten feet (10') in width by nineteen (19) in length for single rows.
5. A landscape pod, located within the parking rows shall be at least six feet (6') from the back of curb to the back of curb. (Ord. 1545, 9-29-2003)