PZ - Landscape Requirements
ARTICLE B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
SECTION:
11-3B-1: Purpose
11-3B-2: Applicability
11-3B-3: Application Requirements
11-3B-4: Application Process
11-3B-5: Standards And Installation
11-3B-6: Irrigation Standards
11-3B-7: Landscape Buffers Along Streets
11-3B-8: Parking Lot Landscaping
11-3B-9: Landscape Buffers To Adjoining Uses
11-3B-10: Tree Preservation
11-3B-11: Stormwater Integration
11-3B-12: Pathway Landscaping
11-3B-13: Landscape Maintenance
11-3B-14: Installation
11-3B-1: PURPOSE:
A. The regulations of this article are intended to promote landscaping in the city of
Meridian that will improve community livability, preserve the quality of life, and enhance
the aesthetic quality, economic viability, and environmental health of the city. (Ord. 12-
1514, 5-16-2012, eff. 5-21-2012)
B. The city of Meridian recognizes that landscaping can be a significant expense to
business people and residents. At the same time, high quality landscaping improves the
livability of residential neighborhoods, enhances the appearance and customer attraction
of commercial areas, increases property values, improves the compatibility of adjacent
uses, screens undesirable views, and can reduce air, water and noise pollution. (Ord. 16-
1717, 1-3-2017)
C. The intent of these regulations is to achieve a balance between the right of individuals
to develop and maintain their property in a manner they prefer and the rights of city
residents to live, work, shop, and recreate in pleasant, healthy, sustainable, and attractive
surroundings.
D. The City recognizes that surface irrigation water is not available everywhere, that
seasonal availability fluctuates, and that highly treated potable water is expensive and less
desirable for landscaping. These regulations are intended to encourage the use of water
conserving landscape designs and low water use plant materials and to discourage
landscaping that requires high water use for maintenance, such as large expanses of lawn
or turf.
E. These regulations are intended to assist in the implementation of CPTED (crime
prevention through environmental design) strategies to reduce the opportunities of fear
and incidence of crime and improve the quality of life. (Ord. 12-1514, 5-16-2012, eff. 5-21-
2012)
11-3B-2: APPLICABILITY:
A landscape plan shall be required for the following:
A. All development, redevelopment, additions, or site modifications except detached
single-family and secondary dwellings.
B. All common lots in all subdivisions.
C. All applications for a conditional use permit (CUP), preliminary plat (PP), final plat
(FP), certificate of zoning compliance (CZC), administrative design review (DES), or
planned unit development (PUD). (Ord. 09-1394, 3-3-2009, eff. retroactive to 2-4-2009)
D. Applicability of additions to existing structures: Existing development shall be
required to conform to this article based upon the following guidelines:
1. For additions less than twenty five percent (25%) of the existing structure or
developed area, no additional landscaping shall be required except for buffers to adjacent
residential uses.
2. For additions that are twenty five percent (25%) to fifty percent (50%) of the
existing structure or developed area, perimeter and right of way landscaping as required
by this article shall be installed.
3. For additions greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing structure or developed
area, all current landscape standards of this article shall be met.
4. If the location of existing buildings or other structures prevents conformance with
the requirements of this section, or if its implementation would create nonconformity, the
director shall determine how this article is to be applied through the alternative
compliance process in accord with chapter 5, "Administration", of this title. (Ord. 05-1170,
8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
11-3B-3: APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
A. All landscape plans shall comply with the requirements for size, scale, number of
copies, and contents as detailed in the application form.
B. The landscape plan may be on the same site plan used to show parking layout, setback
compliance, etc.
C. The landscape plan shall depict all ground level mechanical equipment areas and
include details for vertical screening.
CD. All landscape plans shall be prepared by a landscape architect, landscape designer,
or qualified nurseryman. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
11-3B-4: APPLICATION PROCESS:
A. Preliminary Landscape Plan Review: A preliminary landscape plan review is
recommended prior to submission for all developments, but is not required.
B. Landscape Plan Review: A landscape plan will be reviewed in accord with the
standards and procedures set forth in this article and approved by the department.
C. Landscape Plan Modification:
1. An approved landscape plan shall not be altered without prior approval of the
Planning Department.
2. No significant field changes to the plan are permitted.
3. Prior written approval of all material changes is required.
4. All approved changes to the landscape plan shall be documented prior to issuance of
a certificate of occupancy. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
11-3B-5: STANDARDS AND INSTALLATION:
A. Approved Tree Species:
1. The publication titled "Treasure Valley Tree Selection Guide" is hereby adopted by
this reference as the City of Meridian's list of approved and prohibited tree species, except
that thefor following Arborists Revised List of trees, are disallowed in Meridian
withoutwith written approval byfrom the City’s arborist.
The publication categorizes the trees by size as Class I, Class II, or Class III trees.
List of trees
(Ord. 19-1833, 7-9-2019)
2. In addition to the trees identified above, the trees listed in the Park’s and Recreation
Water Conserving Tree Species listtable 11-3B-5-1 of this subsection lists approved water
conserving tree species.
TABLE 11-3B-5-1
APPROVED WATER CONSERVING TREE SPECIES
Common Name
Botanical Name
Deciduous:
Hedge maple
Acer campestre
Amur maple
Acer ginnala
Rocky mountain maple
Acer glabrum
Big tooth maple
Acer grandedentatum
Box elder
Acer negundo
Norway maple
Acer platanoides
Pacific sunset maple
Acer truncatum x platanoides
Serviceberry
Amelanchier alnifolia
Red bud
Cercis canadensis
Green ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Honey locust
Gleditsia triacanthos
Kentucky coffeetree1
Gymnocladus dioicus
Sweetgum
Liquidambar styraciflua
Tulip tree1
Liriodendron tulipeifera
Crabapple
Malus spp
London plane tree1
Platanus x acerifolia
Higan cherry
Prunus sub
Chokecherry
Prunus virginiana
Pear
Pyrus calleryana
Bur oak1
Quercus macrocarpa
Chinese scholar tree1
Saphora japonica
Conifer:
Blue atlas cedar
Cedrus atlantica "glauca"
Lawson's cypress
Chamaecypris lawsoniana
Alaskan cedar
Chamaecypris nootkantensis
Rocky mountain juniper
Juniperus communis
Utah juniper
Juniperus utahensis
Colorado spruce1
Picea pungens
Vanderwolf pine
Pinus flexilis
Austrian pine1
Pinus nigra
Ponderosa pine1
Pinus ponderosa
Scotch pine1
Pinus silvestris
Note:
1. Prohibited in parkways and/or required parking lot landscaping.
3. The city recognizes that new plant varieties are being produced every year and will
consider other species not listed in these publications. Copies of the publications will be
available at the planning department. (Ord. 11-1493, 9-6-2011, eff. 9-12-2011)
B. Minimum Plant Sizes: The following are minimum plant sizes for all required
landscape areas: (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
TABLE 11-3B-5-2
MINIMUM PLANT SIZES
Type Of Tree Minimum Size
Evergreen trees 6 foot height minimum
Ornamental trees 2 inch caliper minimum
Shade trees 2 inch caliper minimum
Woody shrubs 2 gallon pot minimum
(Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005; amd. Ord. 11-1493, 9-6-2011, eff. 9-12-2011)
C. Prohibited Plant Material: The plants listed in Treasure Valley Tree Guide, under trees
not permitted for rights of way property planting, and those in the Arborists Revised List,
are prohibited from being planted along any street or within any parking lot regulated by
this article. The only exception is that conifers (not otherwise disallowedprohibited) may
be planted in the center of street buffers that have a minimum width of twenty feet (20') as
measured from the edge of the sidewalk to the street curb. For public safety purposes, the
location of such conifers shall maintain view corridors of nonresidential structures.
D. Tree Species Mix: When five (5) or more trees are to be planted to meet the
requirements of any portion of this article (including street trees, street buffers, parking lot
landscaping and other landscape guidelines), a mix of species shall be provided. The
number of species to be planted shall vary according to the overall number of trees
required to be planted. See the table below: (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
TABLE 11-3B-5-3
REQUIRED NUMBER OF TREES AND SPECIES
Required Number Of Trees Minimum Number Of Species
5 to 10 2
11 to 30 3
31 to 50 4
More than 50 5
(Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005; amd. Ord. 11-1493, 9-6-2011, eff. 9-12-2011)
E. Plant Quality: All plant material installed pursuant to this article shall meet or exceed
the minimum federal standards as regulated by ANSI Z60.1, "American Standard For
Nursery Stock".
F. Planting Standards: All trees, shrubs, and other plant material shall be planted in
appropriate soil medium and using accepted nursery standards as published by the
American Association Of Nurserymen (latest edition) including hole size, backfilling, and
fertilization., or as detailed by a certified Landscape Architect or qualified arborist.
G. Staking: Tree staking is not required but may be used in areas with high winds or
other situations that make staking desirable. If trees are staked, the stakes shall be
removed within twelve (12) months to prevent damage to the tree. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-
2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
H. Mulching: Mulch shall be used in all required planting areas. Approved mulches may
be organic, such as bark or soil aid, or they may include rock products, such as "permabark"
or similar products. Use of mulch, organic or rock, as the only ground cover in required
planting areas is prohibited. Pea gravel, drain rock, road base gravel, and similar products
shall not be used as mulch. All mulch shall be contained by a curb, concrete mow strip, or
other edging material to contain the mulch and prevent it from migrating to adjacent
surfaces. If rock mulch is used, a weed barrier fabric shall be used beneath the rock.
Impermeable plastic weed barriers are prohibited because they restrict water and oxygen
to the plants. Within stormwater facilities, mulch may not float. (Ord. 16-1717, 1-3-2017)
I. Curbing: All planting areas that border driveways, parking lots, and other vehicle use
areas shall be protected by curbing, wheel stops, or other approved protective devices.
Such devices shall be a minimum of thirty inches (30") from all tree trunks to prevent cars
from damaging tree trunks.
J. Utilities: The following standards apply to the planting of trees near existing utilities
and to trenching for new utilities near existing trees:
1. Overhead Utilities: Only class I trees in the recommended plant list may be planted
under or within ten (10) lateral feet of any overhead utility wires.
2. Underground Utilities: All trees shall be planted outside of any easement that
contains a city water or sewer main, unless written approval is obtained from the city
engineer. If any utility easement precludes trees required by this article, the width of the
required buffer shall be increased to accommodate the required trees.
3. Trenching: New underground utilities shall stay outside of the drip line of existing
trees if trenched, or be tunneled a minimum of three feet (3') below existing grade within
the tree's drip line. The guiding principle is that no root two inches (2") or larger shall be
cut. Note: This requirement is for placement of new utilities and does not affect the city's
ability to access existing utilities for repair and maintenance.
K. Erosion Control: The landscape installation shall stabilize all soil and slopes.
L. Berms: Berm slopes shall not exceed two three to one (23:1) (horizontal:vertical).
Three to one (3:1) maximum slopes are recommended. Grass that requires mowing shall
not be used on slopes steeper than three to one (3:1). (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-
2005)
M. Screening: Where screening is required in this article and/or this title, chainlink
fencing with or without slats does not qualify as a screening material. (Ord. 06-1241, 7-5-
2006, eff. 7-15-2006)
N. Vegetation Coverage: Required landscape areas shall be at least seventy percent
(70%) covered with vegetation at maturity, with mulch used under and around the plants.
Alternatively, meet the standards for Water Conserving Design, An exception may be
approved by the director for water conserving designs that meet both the following
standards:
1. The design incorporates a variety of water conserving trees as set forth in table 11-
3B-5-1 of this section, water conserving plants, boulders, rocks, decorative walls and/or
permeable hardscape materials such as pavers and flagstones; and
2. Required landscape areas shall be at least forty percent (40%) covered with
vegetation at maturity.
O. Water Conserving Design: To qualify for the exceptions for water conserving designs
as set forth in this chapter, the applicant shall demonstrate the following:
1. The design includes water conserving trees as set forth in table 11-3B-5-1 of this
section., use of native or drought resistant shrubs, perennials or ornamental grasses, water
conserving plants, boulders, rocks, decorative walls and/or permeable hardscape materials
such as pavers and flagstones, and that are visually distinct (size, texture, or color) and
clearly visible from the adjacent travel roadway or drive aisle
2. The design includes plants that can thrive in climates with approximately ten (10) to
twelve inches (12") of annual rainfall.
3. Lawn and turf areas shall not comprise more than fifty percent (50%) of the total
landscaped areas and shall consist of water conserving grasses, including, but not limited
to, buffalo grass, blue gamma grass, compact fescue, zerilawnXerilawn, turf type tall fescue
and/or rhyzomotuous tall fescue.
4. Herbaceous and/or perennial ground cover shall be drought tolerant and able to
withstand dry conditions once established. As a guide, refer to the recommended plants in
the city of Boise parks and recreation "Water Conservation Guidelines". (Ord. 11-1493, 9-6-
2011, eff. 9-12-2011)
5. Excluding lawn and turf, no area larger than (375) square feet may be covered by a
single ground cover material without additional hardscape or design feature of no less than
(125) square feet.
6. Required landscape areas shall be at least forty percent (40%) covered with
vegetation at maturity.
P. Safety:
1. Landscaping shall be designed and installed in such a way as to provide natural
surveillance opportunities from public areas and not create hiding places or blind spots.
2. Shrubs and plant material installed in close proximity to windows and entryways
should be limited in size and be of slow growing varieties to prevent overgrowth and
concealment of windows and entryways creating opportunities for crime. (Ord. 12-1514, 5-
16-2012, eff. 5-21-2012)
11-3B-6: IRRIGATION STANDARDS:
A. Irrigation Required: All landscape areas regulated by this article shall be served with
an automatic underground irrigation system. Additional requirements affecting
pressurized irrigation systems can be found in section 9-1-28, "Pressurized Irrigation
System", of this code. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
B. Performance Specifications:
1. Coverage: The irrigation system shall be designed to provide one hundred percent
(100%) coverage within lawn areas with head to head spacing or triangular spacing as
appropriate or point to point (drip) at each plant or planting area.
2. Matched Precipitation Rates: Sprinkler heads shall have matched precipitation rates
within each control valve circuit.
3. Irrigation Hydrozones: Sprinkler heads irrigating lawn or other high water demand
areas shall be circuited so that they are on a separate hydrozone from those irrigating
trees, shrubs, or other reduced water demand areas.
4. Overspray: Sprinkler heads shall be installed and adjusted to reduce overspray onto
impervious surfaces such as streets, sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas. (Ord. 11-
1493, 9-6-2011, eff. 9-12-2011)
C. Backflow Prevention: Provide an appropriate backflow prevention device as required
by title 9, chapter 3, "Cross Connection Control", of this code. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff.
9-15-2005)
D. Nonpotable Water: Use of nonpotable irrigation and/or reuse water is required when
determined to be available by the city public works department as set forth in section 9-1-
28, "Pressurized Irrigation System", of this code; reuse water may not be used for
stormwater facilities. Water availability during the fall and spring seasons is also required
by connecting to city potable water, city reuse water, and/or an on site well as a secondary
source. An exception may be approved for water conserving designs as set forth in
subsection 11-3B-5O of this article. In such cases, the requirement for a secondary source
may be waived by the director. If city potable water is used, a separate water meter is
required. (Ord. 16-1717, 1-3-2017)
E. Subdivision Irrigation Systems: If a pressurized irrigation pump station is required on
the developed property, such station shall be on a lot solely dedicated to that pump station.
Said lot shall be owned by the entity that owns and maintains the pressurized irrigation
system. (Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)
11-3B-7: LANDSCAPE BUFFERS ALONG STREETS:
A. Purpose: The intent of these requirements is to ensure the long term and consistent
maintenance of landscape buffers along streets that improve the visual quality of the
streetscape, unify diverse architecture, and carry out the comprehensive plan policies
related to promoting attractive street(s) and street beautification.
B. Applicability: Landscape buffers shall be required along streets in all locations, except
for local streets adjacent to single-family residential, duplex, and townhouse residential
properties.
C. Standards: Standards for landscape buffers along streets shall be as follows:
1. Buffer Size: See chapter 2, "District Regulations", of this title. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-
2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
a. Measurement:
(1) All street buffers with attached sidewalks shall be measured from the back of
sidewalk. Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer
shall be measured from the ultimate sidewalk location as anticipated by ACHD.
(2) All street buffers with detached sidewalks shall be measured from the back of
curb. Where ACHD is anticipating future widening of the street, the width of the buffer shall
be measured from the ultimate curb location as anticipated by ACHD. Detached sidewalks
shall have an average minimum separation of greater than four feet (4') to back of curb.
(Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)
b. Easements: Where the buffer is encumbered by easements or other restrictions,
the buffer area shall include a minimum five foot (5') wide area for planting shrubs and
trees. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
c. Width Reduction: In a development where the required street buffer width results
in an otherwise unavoidable hardship to the property, a written request for a buffer
reduction may be submitted through the alternative compliance process in accord with
chapter 5, "Administration", of this title. The request shall demonstrate evidence of the
unique hardship caused by the required street buffer and propose a specific alternative
landscape plan that meets or exceeds the intent of the required buffer. In no case shall the
width be reduced to less than ten percent (10%) of the depth of the lot, except in the Old
Town district. A reduction to the buffer width shall not affect building setbacks; all
structures shall be set back from the property line a minimum of the buffer width required
in the applicable zoning district. (Ord. 10-1439, 1-12-2010, eff. 1-18-2010)
2. Buffer Location: Landscape buffers along streets shall be located at all subdivision
boundaries.
a. All residential subdivision street buffers shall be on a common lot, maintained by a
homeowners' association. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
b. All commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential street buffers shall be on a
common lot or on a permanent dedicated buffer, maintained by the property owner or
business owners' association. (Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)
c. Except where fences and walls are used as decorative landscape elements, fences
and walls are permitted only on the interior edge of the street buffer.
3. Buffer Landscaping Materials:
a. All required landscape buffers along streets shall be designed and planted with a
variety of trees and, shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative ground cover. Plant materials in
conjunction with site design shouldall elicit design principles including rhythm, repetition,
balance, and focal elements.
b. The minimum density of one tree per thirty five (35) linear feet is required. At least
35% of qualifying trees must provide urban canopy at maturity, and at least 25% of
qualifying trees must be Class 2 selections, unless otherwise prohibited by utilities it can be
shown that utility conflicts prohibit installation of Class 2 trees. If thisAll calculation results
in a fraction of five (5) or greater, round up to an additional tree. If theAll calculation
results in a fraction less than five (5), round the number down.
c. Large shrubs, hedges and conifers should be used sparingly and in clusters that are
well integrated with the landscape design. Such plants shall not screen or create a public
safety hazard.
d. Where street trees are within a parkway, they shall be centered within the parkway
planter. Where street trees are not within a parkway, they shall be offset a minimum of five
feet (5') from the edge of sidewalk.
e. Lawn and other grasses requiring regular mowing shall comprise no more than
65% of the vegetated coverage of a landscape buffer. This maximum area excludes
landscaped parkway with trees. All other vegetated coverage shall be mulched and treated
as planting area for shrubs or other vegetative cover. Areas along required walls and closed
vision fences should generally be reserved for planting beds with a minimum of one shrub
per seven lineal feet of frontage.
f. Entryway Corridors: along all entryway corridors, additional landscape design
features shall be provided within landscape buffers. Features may include berms of no less
than (4:1) slope at least 12-feet in depthto at a 3-foot minimum height, decorative
landscape walls (no greater than 3-feet in height), decorative open vision fencing (no
greater than 4-feet in height), or design elements with a similar level of effort (Example: a
dry creek design with river rock, boulders, etc.). Detached sidewalks within landscaped
buffers are required along entryway corridors, unless curb, gutter and sidewalk already
exist.
g. In conditions with reduced landscape buffers, additional design elements shall be
required including reduced turf area, increased mulched planting area and increased plant
diversity, and additional vertical design features such as decorative landscape retaining
walls (no greater than 3-feet in height).
4. Tree Spacing: For design flexibility, trees may be grouped together or spaced evenly
as desired. Landscape designs should consider tree placement location, spacing, and
clumping to avoid conflicts with wayfinding and business identification signs. However,
trees shall be spaced no closer than eighty percent (80%) of the average mature width of
the trees, as demonstrated in the following examples:
FIGURE 1
TREE SPACING
(Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
5. Landscaping Within Right Of Way:
a. If the unimproved street right of way is ten feet (10') or greater from the edge of
pavement to edge of sidewalk or property line, the developer shall maintain a ten foot (10')
compacted shoulder meeting the construction standards of the transportation authority
and landscape the remainder with lawn or other vegetative ground cover. (Ord. 16-1672, 2-
16-2016)
b. Landscaping improvements within the right of way shall require a license
agreement between the property owner and the transportation authority. (Ord. 05-1170,
8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
6. Impervious Surfaces: Allowed impervious surfaces within the landscape buffer
include driveways, outdoor seating, signs and walkways. Vehicle display pads are
prohibited in the required buffer. (Ord. 10-1439, 1-12-2010, eff. 1-18-2010)
7. Berms In Street Buffers: Berm design is subject to the provisions in accord with
subsection 11-3B-5L of this article. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
8. Stormwater Detention: Stormwater swales and other green stormwater facilities
may be incorporated into the buffer in accord with section 11-3B-11 of this article. Other
stormwater detention and retention facilities shall not be permitted in the street buffer,
except along I-84. (Ord. 16-1717, 1-3-2017)
11-3B-8: PARKING LOT LANDSCAPING:
A. Purpose: The purpose of perimeter and internal parking lot landscaping is to soften
and mitigate the visual and heat island effect of a large expanse of asphalt in parking lots,
and to improve the safety and comfort of pedestrians users. Landscaping can also reduce
summer heat gain in parking areas and define pedestrianways.
B. Applicability: The requirements for perimeter and internal lot landscaping shall apply
to all commercial, industrial and multi- family development, with the following exceptions:
1. Parking spaces adjoining loading areas in the I-L and I-H districts are excluded from
the interior landscape requirements. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
2. For parking lot reconstruction, exclusive of sealing, striping, or overlaying, all
current landscape standards of this section shall be met, unless approved as set forth in
section 11-1B-4 of this title. (Ord. 16-1672, 2-16-2016)
3. If the location of existing buildings or other structures prevents conformance with
the requirements of this section, or if its implementation would create a nonconformity
with parking standards, the director shall determine how this article is to be applied
through the alternative compliance process. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
C. Standards:
1. For Perimeter Landscaping: The following standards apply to the perimeter of
parking or other vehicular use areas, including driveways:
a. Requirement: Provide a five foot (5') wide minimum landscape buffer adjacent to
parking, loading, or other paved vehicular use areas, including driveways, vehicle sales
areas, truck parking areas, bus parking areas, and vehicle storage areas, subject to the
following exceptions:
(1) This requirement may be reduced or waived at the determination of the director
where there is a shared driveway and/or recorded cross parking agreement and easement
with an adjacent property.
(2) This requirement may be reduced or waived at the determination of the director
for truck maneuvering areas in industrial, and mixed-employment and high-density
employment districts. (Ord. 09-1420, 6-23-2009, eff. 6-23-2009)
b. Landscaping: The perimeter landscape buffer shall be planted with one urban
canopy Class II or Class III tree per thirty five (35) linear feet and shrubs, lawn, or other
vegetative ground cover. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-8-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
c. Encroachments: Structures less than one hundred twenty (120) square feet,
including, but not limited to, trash enclosures and storage sheds, may encroach into a
required landscape buffer, excluding any buffer to adjoining residential uses as set forth in
section 11-3B-9 of this article. (Ord. 09-1420, 6-23-2009, eff. 6-23-2009)
2. For Internal Landscaping: Interior parking lot landscaping shall be required on any
parking lot with more than twelve (12) spaces. The following standards apply to internal
landscaping:
a. Planter Size: Landscape planters shall contain a minimum of fifty (50) square feet,
and the planting area shall not be less than five feet (5') in any dimension, measured inside
curbs. The only exception to the five foot (5') minimum dimension is at the tip of triangular
planters located at the end of rows of angled parking.
b. Parking Spaces: No linear grouping of parking spaces shall exceed twelve (12) in a
row, without an internal planter island. The planter island shall run the length of the
parking space and may be reduced by two feet (2') to allow for improved vehicular
maneuvering.
c. Parking Lot Layout: Interior landscaping shall, insofar as possible, be used to
delineate and guide major traffic movement within the parking area so as to prevent cross
space driving. Interior landscape planters shall be spaced as evenly as feasible and at the
ends of rows of parking throughout the lot to consistently reduce the visual impact of long
rows of parked cars. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
d. Trees Required: Each interior planter that serves a single row of parking spaces
shall be landscaped with at least one tree and shall be covered with low shrubs, lawn, or
other vegetative ground cover. Each interior planter that serves a double row of parking
spaces shall have at least two (2) trees and shall be covered with low shrubs, lawn, or other
vegetative ground cover. Trees shall be centered within the planters and provide urban
canopy. Deciduous shade urban canopy trees shall be pruned to a minimum height of eight
feet (8') above the adjacent parking areas. Evergreen trees and class III trees are prohibited
in interior planters. (Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)
e. Design Flexibility: In parking areas where the strict application of this subsection C
will seriously limit the function and circulation of the lot, up to fifty percent (50%) of the
required landscaping may be located near the perimeter of the paved area or adjacent to
pedestrian corridors to emphasize entrance corridors, pedestrian safety, or special
landscape areas within the general parking area. Such required interior landscaping that is
relocated shall be in addition to perimeter landscape and right of way screening
requirements. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
11-3B-9: LANDSCAPE BUFFERS TO ADJOINING USES:
A. Purpose: The requirements in this section shall apply to the landscape buffer to
residential and/or nonindustrial uses in section 11-2B-3, table 11-2B-3 and section 11-2C-
3, table 11-2C-3 of this title. The landscape requirements in this section are intended to
ensure that incompatible, adjoining land uses are adequately protected and are provided
an appropriate amount of land separation to conduct permitted uses without causing
adverse impact.
B. Applicability: The landscape buffer is required in the C-N, C-C, C-G, L-O, M-E, H-E, and
I-L districts on any parcel sharing a contiguous lot line with a residential land use. The
landscape buffer is required in the I-H district on any property sharing a contiguous lot line
with a nonindustrial use.
C. Standards:
1. Buffer Materials: The materials within the required buffer between incompatible
land uses are regulated as follows:
a. Mix Of Materials: All buffer areas shall be comprised of, but not limited to, a mix of
evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative ground cover. Fences,
walls and berms may also be incorporated into the buffer area as set forth in subsection 11-
3B-7C2c of this article.
b. Barrier Effectiveness: The required buffer area shall result in a barrier that allows
trees to touch at the time of the tree maturitywithin (5) years of planting. Trees that will
not touch until maturity outside of this timeframe must be supplemented with additional
materials such as tall columnar evergreen shrubs, or other qualifying materials.
c. Buffer Wall And/Or Fence: Where existing or proposed adjacent land uses cannot
be adequately buffered with plant material(s), the city may require inclusion of a wall,
fence, or other type of screen that mitigates noise and/or unsightly uses. If a wall or fence
at least six feet (6') tall is provided, the planting requirement may be reduced to a
minimum of one tree per thirty five (35) linear feet, plus shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative
ground cover.
d. Chainlink Fencing: Chainlink fencing with or without slats does not qualify as a
screening material. Except in the I-L and I-H districts, chainlink or cyclone fencing is
prohibited within required buffers between different land uses. Chainlink may be used
beyond the required buffer.
2. Minimum Buffer Size: The width of the buffer is determined by the district in which
the property is located, unless such width is otherwise modified by city council at a public
hearing with notice to surrounding property owners. The tables of dimensional standards
for each district in accord with chapter 2, "District Regulations", of this title establish the
minimum buffer size. A reduction to the buffer width shall not affect building setbacks; all
structures shall be set back from the property line a minimum of the buffer width required
in the applicable zoning district.
3. Pedestrian Access: Landscape buffers shall facilitate safe pedestrian access from
residential development to abutting commercial districts and vice versa.
4. Relationship To Parking Lot Perimeter Requirements: All buffers between different
land uses may include any required perimeter parking lot landscape buffers (see
subsection 11-3B-8C of this article) when calculating the minimum width of the buffer.
(Ord. 12-1514, 5-16-2012, eff. 5-21-2012)
11-3B-10: TREE PRESERVATION:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to preserve existing trees four
inch (4") caliper or greater from destruction during the development process.
B. Applicability: Tree preservation is required in all districts.
C. Standards:
1. Site Plans: Site plans shall make all feasible attempts to maintain existing trees four
inch (4") caliper or greater within their design.
2. Landscape Plan: All existing trees greater than four inch (4") caliper shall be shown
on the landscape plan. Indicate whether each tree is to be retained or removed. Include on
the plan a description of how existing trees to be retained are to be protected during
construction.
3. Protection During Construction: Existing trees that are retained shall be protected
from damage to bark, branches, and roots during construction. The city of Meridian parks
department arborist shall approve the protection fence(s) prior to construction. Any
severely damaged tree shall be replaced in accord with subsection C5 of this section.
4. Construction Within The Drip Line Of Existing Trees: Construction, excavation, or fill
occurring within the drip line of any existing tree shall be avoided, except to supplement
existing trees with new irrigation. Specific requirements for construction within the drip
line of existing trees are as follows:
a. Paving: Whenever possible, impervious paving surfaces shall remain outside of the
drip line of existing trees. When it is not possible, impervious surfaces shall be allowed at a
distance from the trunk of a retained tree equal to the diameter of the tree trunk plus five
feet (5').
b. Grade Changes: Grade changes greater than six inches (6") are prohibited within
the drip line of existing trees.
c. Compaction: A fence or barrier that encloses the entire area beneath the tree
canopy shall be in place prior to construction.
d. Utilities: New underground utilities to be placed within the drip line of existing
trees shall be installed in accord with subsection 11-3B-5J3 of this article.
5. Mitigation:
a. Mitigation shall be required for all existing trees four inch (4") caliper or greater
that are removed from the site with equal replacement of the total calipers lost on site up
to an amount of one hundred percent (100%) replacement. (Example: Two 10-inch caliper
trees removed may be mitigated with four 5-inch caliper trees, five 4-inch caliper trees, or
seven 3-inch caliper trees.). Deciduous specimen trees (4”) caliper or greater may count
double towards total calipers lost, when planted at entryways, within common open space,
and when used as focal elements in landscape design.
b. No mitigation is required in the following: 1) existing prohibited trees within the
street buffer or parking lot;the property boundary of the project. 2) existing dead, dying, or
hazardous trees certified prior to removal by the city of Meridian parks department
arborist; 3) trees that are required to be removed by another governmental agency having
jurisdiction over the project.
6. Required Landscaping: Existing trees that are retained or relocated on site may
count toward the required landscaping. Existing trees (12”) caliper or greater that are
verified healthy by the City Arborist or a certified arborist and located within common
open space or as focal elements within the site may count equally towards the mitigation of
calipers lost from other removed trees. Mitigation trees are in addition to all other
landscaping required by this article. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
7. Fee In-lieu: In conditions where it is desired to remove healthy trees for design
flexibility, and where other mitigation methods are less desired, an in lieu-fee may be
contributed towards the City’s Tree Mitigation Fund. The purpose of this fund is to offset
urban tree canopy loss by having the City install new trees in other areas of the community.
Need a price or method….”Trees are valued by a certified arborist at wholesale nursery
pricing at the time of plan submittal.”
87. Incentives: The director may allow a reduction up to ten percent (10%) of the
required parking spaces to accommodate existing trees through the alternative compliance
process in accord with chapter 5, "Administration", of this title. Approval of an alternative
compliance application for a reduction in required parking shall be obtained prior to
submittal of plans. (Ord. 10-1439, 1-12-2010, eff. 1-18-2010)
11-3B-11: STORMWATER INTEGRATION:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to improve water quality and
provide a natural, effective form of flood and water pollution control through the
integration of vegetated, well designed stormwater filtration swales and other green
stormwater facilities into required landscape areas, where topography and hydrologic
features allow.
B. Applicability: The standards for stormwater integration shall apply to all subdivisions,
site improvements and ACHD stormwater facilities. ACHD stormwater policy shall
supersede city requirements for stormwater facilities, except that facilities counting
toward open space requirements must also meet or exceed city requirements.
C. Standards:
1. Stormwater swales incorporated into required landscape areas shall be vegetated
with grass or other appropriate plant materials. Such swales shall also be designed to
accommodate the required number of trees as per section 11-3B-7 of this article if located
in a street buffer or other required landscape area.
2. A rock sump may be incorporated into a vegetated swale to facilitate drainage. The
rock sump inlet may not exceed more than five feet (5') in any horizontal dimension.
3. Gravel, rock, sand, or cobble stormwater facilities are not permitted on the surface of
required landscape areas, unless designed as a dry creek bed or other design feature.
4. Plant materials shall be a species that are able to withstand the anticipated changes
in soil wetness and moisture levels.
5. Organic mulch shall not be used against drainage catch basins because of potential
sediment clogging.
6. Slopes shall be less than or equal to three to one (3:1) (horizontal:vertical) for
accessibility and maintenance.
7. The stormwater facility shall be designed free draining with no standing water
within forty eight (48) hours of the completion of a storm event. (Ord. 16-1717, 1-3-2017)
11-3B-12: PATHWAY LANDSCAPING:
A. Purpose: The purpose of this section is to promote trees and other landscaping along
pathways developed within the city. The required landscaping will provide shade and
visual interest along the pathways.
B. Applicability: Wherever pathways are installed and/or required, the landscaping
standards within this section shall apply.
C. Standards:
1. Planter Width: A landscape strip a minimum of five feet (5') wide shall be provided
along each side of the pathway. Designs are encouraged in which the width of the
landscape strip varies to provide additional width to plant trees farther from the pathway,
preventing root damage. The minimum width of the landscape strip shall be two feet (2') to
allow for maintenance of the pathway. Alternative compliance as set forth in section 11-5B-
5 of this title shall not be required to meander the pathway as long as a total width of ten
feet (10') of landscaping is maintained along the pathway.
2. Required Plants: The landscape strips shall be planted with a mix of trees, shrubs,
lawn, and/or other vegetative ground cover. There shall be a minimum of one tree per one
hundred (100) linear feet of pathway. If this calculation results in a fraction of five (5) or
greater, round up to an additional tree; if the calculation results in a fraction less than five
(5), round the number down.
3. Improvements: The pathways construction shall be in accordance with the site
specific geotechnical report for light duty paving. In the cases where no geotechnical report
is available pathways shall be built using 2.5 “of asphaltic concrete over 4” of crushed
aggregate base over 10” of structural subbase over compacted subgrade. Materials and
methods shall conform to ISPWC standard specifications. shall be paved with three inches
(3") of asphaltic concrete or equivalent. (Ord. 10-1439, 1-12-2010, eff. 1-18-2010)
4. Tree Branching Height: Trees along the pathway shall be pruned with a clear
branching height of at least eight feet (8') above the path surface.
5. Shrub Height: Shrubs are limited to three feet (3') high or less at mature size to allow
for safety provisions and sight distance.
6. Mulch: The solitary use of mulches, such as bark alone without vegetative ground
covers, is prohibited. Mulch under the trees and shrubs is required in accord with
subsection 11-3B-5H of this article.
7. Prohibited Trees: No evergreen trees or class III trees shall be planted within the
required landscape strips of less than 10-feet because of safety, sight distance, and
maintenance concerns. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
8. Fences: See section 11-3A-7 of this chapter for pathway fencing standards. (Ord. 10-
1439, 1-12-2010, eff. 1-18-2010)
11-3B-13: LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to ensure that all required
landscaping is maintained in a healthy, growing condition at all times.
B. Applicability: The requirement for landscape maintenance applies in all districts
where landscaping has been required.
C. Standards:
1. Responsibility: The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of all
landscaping and screening devices required by this article.
2. Topping Prohibited: Topping any street tree required by this article is prohibited.
3. Tree Grates: Tree grates shall be widened to accommodate the growing tree trunk
and prevent girdling of any trees planted in tree wells within sidewalks or other public
right of way.
4. Dead And Diseased Plant Materials: Plant materials that exhibit evidence of insect
pests, disease, and/or damage shall be appropriately treated to correct the problem. Dead
plant materials shall be replaced.
5. Inspections: All landscaping required by this subsection may be subject to periodic
inspections by city officials to determine compliance or to investigate.
6. Pruning: The lower branches of trees shall be pruned and maintained at a minimum
height of six feet (6') above the ground or walkway surface to afford greater visibility of the
area, except as otherwise required herein. (Ord. 12-1514, 5-16-2012, eff. 5-21-2012)
11-3B-14: INSTALLATION:
A. Certificate Of Completion: A written certificate of completion shall be prepared by the
landscape architect, landscape designer or qualified nurseryman responsible for the
landscape plan upon completion of the landscape installation. The certificate of completion
shall verify that all landscape improvements, including plant materials and sprinkler
installation, are planted and installed in substantial compliance with the approved
landscape plan and details.
B. Installation Schedule:
1. All required landscaping, irrigation systems and site features shall be installed
according to the approved landscape plan prior to issuance of a final certificate of
occupancy.
2. All pathways to be turned overconveyed to the City for permanent maintenance,
must be inspected and compaction tested prior to issuance of a final certificate of
occupancy.
32. Private site improvements that are above and beyond the requirements placed on
the development do not require completion prior to occupancy. (For example a clubhouse
in a residential development need not be completed prior to occupancy of residences in the
development.)
34. For final plats, all landscape buffers along streets, with the exception of local
streets, shall be installed prior to signature on the final plat. Street buffers on local streets
may be installed at the time of the lot development; installation of such improvements shall
not be required at the time of plat approval. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
C. Extension Of Time For Installation: The building official, upon recommendation of the
director, may issue a temporary certificate of occupancy for a specified time period, not to
exceed one hundred eighty (180) days when: (Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)
1. Due to weather or other circumstances, the landscaping or other required site
amenities cannot be completed; and (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
2. The applicant has provided surety to the city for the required improvements
consistent with the provisions of chapter 5, article C, "Surety Agreements", of this title.
(Ord. 07-1325, 7-10-2007)