15-1418 Amending Landscaping,Buffer Screening and Open Space

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4. Species of tree. Species of trees shall be selected based upon the location of the tree to ensure that the tree can reach its full potential without causing a disturbance to site infrastructure. No tree species shall account for more than 50 percent of the total number of trees. If palms are used, they shall constitute no more than 25 percent of the total tree requirements for any provisions herein. 5. Tree grouping. Trees or palms having an average mature crown spread of less than 30 feet may be substituted by grouping trees so as to create the equivalent of 20 feet crown spread or by planting three (3) trees. Such a grouping shall count as one (1) tree toward meeting the tree requirement for any provisions herein. 6. Preferred trees. A list of preferred trees can be found in the most up to date version of "Florida- Friendly Landscaping Guide to Plant Selection & Landscape Design" - University of Florida, Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences. This list gives guidance to the appropriate trees for appropriate locations including the mature tree height and canopy spread. B. Shrubs. 1. All shrubs shall be a minimum of two (2) feet in height immediately after planting and planted no further apart than four (4) feet on center. 2. Shrubs planted for the purpose of creating a hedge of 6 foot in height shall be a minimum of three (3) feet in height immediately after planting. 3. Hedges shall reach the required height and form a solid and unbroken visual screen within one (1) year after planting. An alternate size or species of landscaping may be allowed where current market conditions are such that required specifications for shrubs and /or trees are not readily available. The applicant shall provide sufficient evidence of such, including relevant contact information for the landscape retailers contacted. Section 3 -13.5. Tree Placement. A tree shall be provided with an appropriate area to grow to its full potential. When planting any tree, attention shall be paid to the full height, canopy width and root structure of the tree at the tree's mature age. Spacing, area and distance from other trees, structures and infrastructure shall be required to reduce the chances of disturbance to the future health of the tree or any buildings or infrastructure. Depending on the characteristics of the tree species and the function of the respective tree the following shall apply: A. Tree Spacing. Trees should be spaced between 10 and 50 feet apart. B. Planting area. Trees should be provided a minimum area dimension of six (6) feet and a minimum of 60 square feet of continuous landscaped open area. C. Distance from overhead and underground utility and power lines. 1. Overhead. Trees next to power lines shall be planted using the table below. The measurement shall be made from the nearest edge of the tree trunk. Distance from Power Linne= Tree Specification 40 feet or greater I Any tree (Except undesirable trees). Ordinance 15 -1418 Page 6