PZ - Staff Report and Exhibits 5-6STAFF REPORT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
HEARING
5/6/2021
DATE:
TO:
Planning & Zoning Commission
FROM:
Bill Parsons, Current Planning
Supervisor
208-884-5533
SUBJECT: ZOA-2021-0002
2021 UDC Text Amendment
LOCATION: City wide
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
C� fIEN!
DIAN�--
.►AHO
The Meridian Planning Division has applied for a Unified Development Code (UDC) text amendment to
update certain sections of the City's code as follows:
• Landscape Requirements and Common Open Space and Site Amenity Requirements in Chapter
3;
• Multi -family Common Open Space Design Requirements in Chapter 4; and
• Various other Amendments in Chapters 1-5 and 7.
II. APPLICANT INFORMATION
A. Applicant:
City of Meridian Planning Division
33 E. Broadway Ave, Suite #102
Meridian, ID 83642
Page 1
III. NOTICING
Planning & Zoning City Council
Posting Date Postine Date
Notification published in
newspaper
4/16/2021
Public Service Announcement 4/13/2021
Nextdoor posting 4/13/2021
IV. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ANALYSIS (Comprehensive Plan)
A. Comprehensive Plan Text(https://www.meridiancity.org/compplan):
3.01.01B - Update the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Code as needed to
accommodate the community's needs and growth trends.
Many of the requested code changes associated with this text amendment reflect the desire of the
Community and maintain the integrity of the plan.
3.04.01B — Maintain and update the Unified Development Code and Future Land Use Map to
implement the provisions of the Comprehensive Plan.
City staff keeps a running database of code revisions throughout the year. The Department's goal is
to amend the UDC twice a year to keep the code current. This round of changes has been a result of a
culmination of multiple revisions based largely on citizen input during the Comprehensive Plan
update which has resulted in a major revamp of the UDC's open space, amenity and landscape
requirements. Staff believes the proposed changes encompass the vision of the plan and is largely
supported by those who participated in the process.
V. UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE ANALYSIS (UDC
In accord with Meridian City Code 11-5, the Planning Division of the Meridian Community Development
respectfully submits a UDC text amendment application.
The proposed update is meant to modify certain sections of the Unified Development Code (UDC) and
overhaul the landscape and common open space and site amenities standards for residential and multi-
family developments. Many of the changes coincide with the policies and feedback received during the
update and adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. Last minute changes where added at the request of Code
Enforcement to assist in their effort to enforce the code.
The proposed text amendment includes a broad range of changes to the sections as follows:
1. UDC 11-313 — Landscape Requirements
2. UDC 11-3G — Common Open Space and Site Amenity Standards
3. UDC 11-4-3-27 — Multi -family Development: Updating the common open space standards to align
with some of the changes being proposed with the Common Open Space and Site Amenities
4. Miscellaneous changes to code sections in Chapters 1-5 and Chapter 7.
All the proposed changes to the UDC including the support documents are included as part of the public
record. Staff has purposely not attached all of the changes to the document to minimize the size of the
staff report. Further, staff anticipates further refinement to these documents as the project transverses
through the hearing process. Except for the Code Enforcement changes, all of the proposed changes went
through an extensive and collaborative review process over several months between City staff, the UDC
Page 2
Focus Group and the Open Space Committee. An informative meeting with the BCA was held on April
13"'.
In summary, City Staff believes the proposed changes will make the implementation and use of the UDC
more understandable and enforceable.
VI. DECISION
A. Staff:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment to the UDC based on the analysis provided
in Section IV and V, modifications presented in Exhibits 1-5 and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions
of Law in Section VII.
B. Commission:
Enter Summary of Commission Decision.
C. City Council:
Enter Summary of City Council Decision.
Page 3
VII. FINDINGS
1. UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE TEXT AMENDMENTS: (UDC 11-5B-3E)
Upon recommendation from the Commission, the Council shall make a full investigation
and shall, at the public hearing, review the application. In order to grant a text amendment
to the Unified Development Code, the Council shall make the following findings:
A. The text amendment complies with the applicable provisions of the comprehensive plan;
Staff finds that the proposed UDC text amendment complies with the applicable provisions of
the Comprehensive Plan. Please see Comprehensive Plan Policies and Goals, Section IV, of
the Staff Report for more information.
B. The text amendment shall not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety, and
welfare; and
Staff finds that the proposed zoning ordinance amendment will not be detrimental to the
public health, safety or welfare if the changes to the text of the UDC are approved as submitted.
It is the intent of the text amendment to further the health, safety and welfare of the public.
C. The text amendment shall not result in an adverse impact upon the delivery of services
by any political subdivision providing public services within the City including, but not
limited to, school districts.
Staff finds that the proposed zoning ordinance amendment does not propose any
significant changes to how public utilities and services are provided to
developments. All City departments, public agencies and service providers that
currently review applications will continue to do so. Please refer to any written or
oral testimony provided by any public service provider(s) when making this finding.
Page 4
UDC Section
Proposed amendment
Proposed language
Notes/reason
11-1A-1
Add definition of
DISMANTLED VEHICLE: Any vehicle, or parts
Code Enforcement had a case regarding a
"dismantled vehicle"
thereof, which:
violation of UDC section 11-4-3-37 (specific use
1. Cannot be safely operated under its own
standards for major/minor vehicle repair). The
power;
violation (among other things) was that
2. Is missing any one of the following: foot
dismantled vehicles were not properly
brakes, hand brakes, headlights, taillights,
screened. The lack of definition of "dismantled
horn, muffler, rearview mirrors, windshield
vehicle" presented a bar to conviction.
wipers, or adequate fenders;
3. Has been declared salvage, or has been
physically damaged to the extent that the cost
of parts and labor minus the salvage value
would make it uneconomical to repair or
rebuild such vehicle; or
Is otherwise in a wrecked, inoperative, or
dilapidated condition.
11-1A-1
Update definition of
Vehicle wrecking or junk yard. Any area, lot,
To intent is that where two qualifying vehicles are
"vehicle wrecking or
land, or parcel where two (2) or more vehicles
in the yard, it is a wrecking yard. But as written, if
junk yard"
without current registration or twe (2) eF m
there is one unregistered vehicle and one
inoperable or dismantled vehicles that are not in
dismantled vehicle, it is by definition not a
operating condition (or parts thereof) are
wrecking yard, because the definition envisions
stored, dumped, dismantled, partially
two unregistered vehicles or two dismantled
dismantled or wrecked; or as defined by Idaho
vehicles.
Code § 40-111, the use of a site that is
maintained, operated, or used for storing,
keeping, buying, or selling junk, or for the
maintenance or operation of an automobile
graveyard, garbage dumps and sanitary fills. The
following uses are excluded from this definition.
agricultural equipment on a farm as herein
defined and vehicles stored or dismantled within
a completely enclosed structure.
11-3C- Update provision
4(A)(2) regarding vehicles that
can be parked in the
street yard of single-
family dwellings
2. Tvoes of vehicles: location of aarkina.
a. Street yard. The following vehicles may be
parked in the street yard:
(1) Automobiles and motorcycles
displaying license plates assigned to the
vehicle with current registration; and
(2) One (1) other vehicle, which may
include a recreational vehicle or trailer
displaying license plates assigned to the
vehicle with current registration, or one
(1) boat, off -highway vehicle, or
specialty off -highway vehicle.
Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating
of 16,000 pounds or more shall not be
parked in the street yard. Vehicles parked
in the street yard shall not encroach upon
any sidewalk or public right-of-way.
b. Side yard, unscreened. If no recreational
vehicle, personal recreational item, boat,
or trailer is parked in the street yard, one
1. UDC defines "required yard" and "street
yard," but does not define "required street
yard." Remove the word "required" to avoid
confusion.
2. Allowing one RV, boat, or trailer to be stored
in the street yard will improve visibility and
safety by moving them off the roadways.
3. Neighborhoods that prefer no RV/boat/
trailer storage on residential properties can
privately enforce CC&Rs.
4. Code's enforcement of this provision results
in the greatest number of citizen complaints
regarding dissatisfaction with the City and
with Code Enforcement, especially in
neighborhoods without CC&Rs. Several of
our older neighborhoods were built prior to
the parking standard; at many homes the City
has even issued permits for electrical
hookups to their RV pad in the street yard.
(11-3C-4(A)(2) establishes a standard, not a
land use, so nonconforming provisions do not
apply.) These citizens are frustrated when the
City then requires them to remove their RV
from the pad. This standard is especially
frustrating for citizens where there is a
"neighborhood norm" of parking RVs, boats,
and trailers in street yards. Code typically
sees a domino effect of finger pointing when
responding to a complaint in such
neighborhoods. As Code responds to each
successive complaint, moving throughout
entire neighborhoods, people again feel like
they are being "harassed."
in a side yard that is not screened by a solid
fence: a recreational vehicle, personal
recreational item, boat, or trailer.
c. Rear or side yard. Except as otherwise
allowed by this section, the following
vehicles shall be parked in the rear or side
yard and shall be screened by a solid
fence, six (6) feet in height:
(1) Vehicles other than automobiles and
motorcycles;
(2) Vehicles without current registration;
and/or
(3) Vehicles without license plates
assigned to the vehicle.
11-3C-4(B)
Update provision
B. Improvements.
Enforcement of standards for parking area
regarding surface of
1. Except -, in this
bseetwen (Q'("
surface in rear yard, behind fence/screen, is
aallev ed- s of
off-street parking areas
sue, All Of Off street parking areas in the
impractical. Requiring concrete or asphalt
at single-family
street yard and driveways into and through a
parking surface in front yard adequately serves
dwellings
parking area in the street yard shall be improved
the public purpose of this provision (dust
with a compacted gravel base, not less than four
suppression, aesthetic).
(4) inches thick, surfaced with concrete or
asphaltic pavement. No person shall park, or
allow to be parked, - t.,mAhii , t,,.-ey �
any vehicle in the required street yard on any
surface other than compacted gravel base, not
less than four (4) inches thick, surfaced with
concrete or asphaltic pavement.
fence, six (6) feet in height the ff street
with a 4pro iR,--irT i,, h„+ ,,,,t
eeReFete, p .S bFiGi,S . led asphalt
Proposed UDC Text Amendments
(Phase 2)
UDC Section
Topic
Reason for Change
Proposed Change
11-2A-3E
Standards
Increase the maximum height limit for education
3. Notwithstanding other height limitations as set forth in this chapter, the maximum height for
institutions
education facilities shall be firmer-yfeet (540')
Table 11-213-2
Allowed use table in
Medical centers are identified in the M-E zone but
commercial districts
hospitals are a prohibited use in the table.
�IM-EUse C-N C-C -G L-0 H-E
��Fc
-F-
Hospital' F v l v l v l= P
11-3A-5
Bikeways
ACHD has a master plan specific to bikeways that
"Bikeways shall be constructed in accord with the city's comprehensive plan and the Ada County highway
supplements the Master Street Map.
district master street map and Roadways to Bikeways Master Plan."
11-313-7C.2c
Location of fences/walls
11-31-1-4D requires a berm or berm/wall combination for
"Except where fences and walls are used as decorative landscape elements or as noise abatement, fences
on interior edge of
noise abatement for residential and other noise sensitive
and walls are permitted only on the interior edge of the street buffer."
street buffers
uses adjoining state highways.
-
11-313-14C
Installation
Coincides with the changes requested below to the
C. Extension Of Time For Installation:
surety standards.
1. Non -Residential: The director, may recommend
issueance of a tompeFaFy certificate of occupancy for non-residential projects for a specified time
period, not to exceed one hundred eighty (180) days when:
la. Due to inclement weather or other extenuating circumstances, the landscaping or other
required site amenities cannot be completed_; aid
2b. 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.
2. Residential: The building official, upon recommendation of the director, may recommend
issueance of a certificate of occupancy for residential dwelling units when:
4a. Due to inclement weather or other extenuating circumstances, the landscaping or other
required site amenities cannot be completed_,•,• —and
2b. 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.
c. Within ninety (90) days of the first certificate of occupancy being issued, all required
landscaping, irrigation systems and site features shall be installed, or additional certificate of
occupancies will be withheld.
REV DATE: 10/21/2020
Table 11-3C-6
Required parking
Revisit the parking ratios for multi -family developments.
Studio
1 per dwelling unit
spaces for residential
use
1
1.5 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a
covered carport or garage
2/3
2 per dwelling unit; at least 1 in a covered
Dwelling, multi-family3 (triplex, fourplex,
carport or garage
4+
3 per dwelling unit; at least 2 in a covered
apartments, etc.)
carport or garage
Guest
1 per 10 dwelling units
spaces
11-4-3-18
Flex space
Provide an avenue for an applicant to incorporate
A. Office and/or retail showroom areas shall comprise a minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the
loading docks in the commercial districts.
structure and/or tenant space.
B. Light industry and warehousing shall not comprise more than seventy percent (70%) of the tenant
space.
C. In the C-C, C-G and M-E Districts, roll -up doors and loading docks shall not be visible from a public
street.
a
rrzur
D.Except inthen-m=raDistriets, leading vEl5-cr�phib-i-t ca
.
DI;. Retail use shall not exceed twenty five percent (25%) of leasable area in any tenant space.
11-4-3-43C.8
Lattice or guyed
We have considered a lattice structure to fall into the
Lattice or guyed designed structures are prohibited unless approved through the conditional use process.
designed structures
category of "other wireless communication facilities that
do not meet the standards set forth in this section shall
require conditional use approval in 11-4-3-43C.10"
although 11-4-3-43C.8 specifically prohibits these type
of structures. (i.e. Ada County Dispatch Center CUP-14-
018, Day Wireless CUP H-2019-0115)
REV DATE: 10/21/2020
11-SA-6D
City takes over posting
There have been complaints that properties are not
D. Posting Of Public Hearing Notice:
of 4' x 4' signs and
being posted in a quality and timely manner. The City
ensures they are affixed
should contract out the posting requirements to lessen
1. Required: All applicants f^r applications requiring a public hearing shall be posted on the subject
to ground
the amount of continuations.
property, except posting is not required for a unified development code text amendment,
comprehensive plan text amendment, vacation, comprehensive plan map amendment initiated by the
city, and/or short plat.
2. Time Frame: Not less than ten (10) days prior to the hearing, the applicant shall post a copy of the
public hearing notice of the application on the property under consideration. Except as noted herein,
posting of the property must be in substantial compliance with the following requirements:
(Keep Exhibit)
3. Sign Placement: The signs shall be posted securely on the land being considered along each roadway
that is adjacent to the subject property boundaries. The sign(s) shall be located on the property, outside
of the public right of way. If the sign cannot be placed on the property and still be clearly visible, the sign
may be placed within the right of way if the applicant can obtain the consent of the owner of the right of
way can be obtained. In circumstances where placing signs per the standards listed herein is not
practical the applicant may request -a-director's determination to may identify an alternative sign
placement strategy.
4. Proof Of Posting: The applicant shall submit aA notarized statement, map depicting the location(s) of
the sins and a photograph of the posting shall be provided to the city no later than seven (7) days
prior to the public hearing attesting to where and when the sign(s) were posted. Unless certificate is
received by such date, the hearing will be continued.
S. Sign Removal: The signs shall be removed no later than three (3) days after the public hearing for
which the sign had been posted is ended.
11-SA-6G
Public hearing process
Add a new provision that specifies when revised plans
8. If revised plans are required by director, commission or council, the applicant shall provide those 15
are due to staff for adequate review. Many times
days prior to the scheduled hearing for review and approval. If plans are not received within the
applicants are providing staff with revised plans to close
to the public hearing and staff doesn't have enough time
established timeframe, the project shall be continued to extend the review period.
to analyze them to ensure that meet city codes.
REV DATE: 10/21/2020
11-5C Surety agreements Recently City was issuing CO's for single family homes
without all of the subdivision improvements being
completed. The City does not issue TCO's for single
family residences even if surety is in place for such
improvements. This section of code is being amended to
address this issue.
UDC 11-313-14 covers the nonlife, nonsafety
improvements a project can provide surety for. Remove
duplication in 11-5C-3D.
REV DATE: 10/21/2020
11-5C-1: PURPOSE:
The purpose of this article is to establish procedures that guarantee the completion of improvements
where City Engineer signature on the final plat or occupancy of a structure is desired, but the
improvements required by the City have not been completed. (Ord. 11-1487, 8-9-2011, eff. 1-1-2012)
11-5C-2: APPLICABILITY:
The provisions of this article shall apply to those improvements that are not needed to protect the public
health, safety and life (including, but not limited to: landscaping, fencing, pressurized irrigation systems
and site amenities) and those improvements that are needed to protect the public health, safety and life
(including, but not limited to, water, sewer, reclaimed water, stormwater facilities or improvements, and
power facilities; parking lot paving and striping; and street paving). (Ord. 11-1487, 8-9-2011, eff. 1-1-
2012)
11-5C-3: PROCESS:
A. The City may withhold building, electrical or plumbing permits, certificates of zoning compliance, or
certificates of occupancy on the lots or land being developed or subdivided, or the structures constructed
thereon, if the improvements required under this title have not been constructed or installed, or if such
improvements are not functioning properly.
B. Where approved by the City Engineer, an owner may post a performance surety for such
improvements that are needed to protect the public life, safety and health including, but not limited to,
water, sewer, reclaimed water, stormwater facilities or improvements, and power facilities; parking lot
paving and striping; and street paving in order to obtain City Engineer signature on the final plat. The
estimated cost shall be provided by the applicant and reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. In
addition to the performance surety, all such improvements shall also be subject to a warranty surety in
the amount of twenty percent (20%) of the cost of improvements for a period of two (2) years. The
amount of the performance surety shall be established by City Council resolution.
C. In the event that an applicant and/or owner cannot complete the nonlife, nonsafety and nonhealth
improvements, such as landscaping, amenities, pressurized irrigation, pathways and fencing, prior to City
Engineer signature on the final plat and/or prior to occupancy, a surety agreement may be approved in
accord with the procedures set forth in this chapter. The estimated cost for landscape and fencing
sureties shall be provided by the applicant and reviewed and approved by the Director. The amount of
surety called for shall be established by City Council resolution.
.. . . .. .. . ...
. ... .. .. ..... . ... . ..... . .. ..
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11-7-4C.3
D-9. Sureties shall be in the form of a bond, an irrevocable letter of credit or a cash deposit. In all cases
the surety shall be drawn solely in favor of, and payable to, the order of the City of Meridian, in accord
with the regulations contained in the surety agreement by and between the guarantor and the City of
Meridian.
E-F. Where a surety is accepted by the City and deposited as provided by this article, the surety shall be
released subject to the following regulations:
1. The owner shall submit a written request to the City to lease the surety. The request shall include the
following documents:
a. A statement from the owner that the required improvements are complete.
b. Two (2) sets of prints of the as built plans and specifications for all improvements.
2. The City Engineer and/or Director shall verify and certify that the required improvements, as
detailed in the surety agreement, have been installed and/or accepted by the City at the end of the
warranty period. The as built plans shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer or Director.
3. Upon certification of the City Engineer and/or the Director, the City shall release the sureties
heretofore deposited in the manner and to the extent as provided for in the surety agreement in accord
with the regulations of this article.
F&. All improvements related to public life, safety and health shall be completed prior to occupancy of
the structures.
Density formula (All The UDC no longer has a maximum number of units Density Formula: Residential density in a planned development shall be calculated by multiplying the n '
PUD Standards) associated with zoning we should remove
v,;tS P-IIAI.,P,.a 4'.,,- fL,P, .a;Vr,-;Cr ; P I AVh ;CL, tL,., P;*., ;r 1AC—r.,.l
REV DATE: 10/21/2020
ARTICLE B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
SECTION:
11-313-1: Purpose
11-313-2: Applicability
11-313-3: Application Requirements
11-313-4: Application Process
11-313-5: Standards And Installation
11-313-6: Irrigation Standards
11-313-7: Landscape Buffers Along Streets
11-313-8: Parking Lot Landscaping
11-313-9: Landscape Buffers To Adjoining Uses
11-313-10: Tree Preservation
11-313-11: Stormwater Integration
11-313-12: Pathway Landscaping
11-313-13: Landscape Maintenance
11-313-14: Installation
11-313-1: 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 landscapin . 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)
11-313-2: 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)
11-313-3: 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)
11-313-4: 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)
11-313-5: 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
for following Arborists Revised List of trees, are aisa"evoxed i n"Perlman •• ithoutwith
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 -3u-5-' of this subsection lists appFoved water
TABLE 11-2--B-5-1
Blue atlas ceda -
Lawson's cypress
Chamaecypris 1.,ws,,,,;.,,,-,
mask-, ce,dd,,-
rh-,w,.,ecy tv-,,,twnWi
Reeky hy mountainIff
juniper -us
Utah juniper
junipeFus ,t-,ho
nsis
Colorado spouse
D'
Dines flex l;s
�.ES ME.
.l7{511
0.
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 11-313-5-2
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 prohibited) 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 11-313-5-3
REQUIRED NUMBER OF TREES AND SPECIES
Required Number Of Trees Minimum Number Of Species
5to10 2
11to30 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
America Association Of NuFseryme (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)
1. 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:,
or alternatively, meet the standards for Water Conserving Design below. An exeeption Ma
be appFoved by the dilrecto r r WateF censerwing designs that meet both the following
standards--
1.
plants,
G-boulders,
Glble haFdscape mateFials such as pavers and flagstones;
and
7 RequiFed landscape aFeas sh-AI i,., -at least fOFty peFeent (409 ) e e
vegetation at matuFityL
0. 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 foFth in table 1-313-5-' 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, z^#nXerilawn, 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)
S. Excluding lawn and turf, no area larger than (37S) 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 maturit.
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)
11-313-6: 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 11-313-50 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)
11-313-7: 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 te14, e-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 awl shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative ground cover. Plant materials in
conjunction with site design sheall 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 it can be shown that utility conflicts
prohibit installation of Class 2 trees. lsAll calculation results in a fraction of five (5) or
greater, round up to an additional tree. lsAll 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 to 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
FIGURE 1
TREE SPACING
Examples
x
( Z ).8
(40+40 ) .8 = 32'
2
Min Spacing
Minimum Tree Spacing.
Examples:
Y
(4-0 15 ).g = 22'
Min Spacing
Minimum 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 11-313-51, 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 11-313-11 of this article. Other
stormwater detention and retention facilities shall not be permitted in the street buffer,
except along 1-84. (Ord. 16-1717, 1-3-2017)
11-313-8: 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. T andseaping can also r-eduee sum-mer
heat gain in parking aFeas and define pedestri
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 11-113-4 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, 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 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 11-313-9 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 she 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)
11-313-9: 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 11-213-3, table 11-213-3 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-0, 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 w,.,*uFit ,w; (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 (C) 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 11-313-8C of this article) when calculating the minimum width of the buffer.
(Ord. 12-1514, 5-16-2012, eff. 5-21-2012)
11-313-10: 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 11-313-5J3 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 tyre
*"^^* buff or par -king 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.
8-7. 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)
11-313-11: 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 11-313-7 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)
11-313-12: 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 11-513-
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 OF .alert. (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 11-313-51-1 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)
11-313-13: 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 maybe 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)
11-313-14: 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 conveyed to the City for permanent maintenance, must be inspected
and compaction tested prior to issuance of a final certificate of occupancy.
3. 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.)
4. 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)
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Article G. COMMON OPEN SPACE AND SITE AMENITY REQUIREMENTS
11-3G-1: Purpose
11-3G-2: Applicability
11-3G-3: Standards for Common Open Space
11-3G-4: Standards for Site Amenities
11-3G-5: General Standards for Common Open Space and Site Amenities
11-3G-1: PURPOSE:
A. To implement the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan:
1. Plan for safe, attractive, and well -maintained neighborhoods that have ample open space,
and generous amenities that provide varied lifestyle choices.
2. Require the design and construction of pathways connections, easy_ pedestrian and
bicycle access to parks, safe routes to schools, and the incorporation of usable open
space with quality amenities as part of new residential and mixed -use developments-
B. The ,.egg *ions of this , fiele are iffteaded t To provide for common open space and site
amenities in Residential Districts and in areas designated as mixed -use in the Comprehensive
Plan that improve the livability of residential neighborhoods, buffer the street edge, provide
alternatives to driving, and protect natural amenities.
C. The r-eg latio s are "'*ended * To establish minimum quantity and standards for
common open space and site amenities, and requirements for the long term maintenance of these
areas.
11-3G-2: APPLICABILITY:
The standards for common open space and site amenities shall apply to all new single-family,
townhouse, and two-family duplex, and multi family developments of five (5) acres or more.
Open space and site amenity standards for multi -family developments are provided for in Section
11-4-3-27C and D of this Title.
11-3G-3: STANDARDS FOR COMMON OPEN SPACE:
A. Open Space and Site ^ m en-4y Minimum Requirements: The minimum requirements are
based on both the quantity and quality of open space provided.
1. Minimum open space quantity requirements: The total land area of all common open space
that meets the standards as set forth in subsection B of this section shall equal or exeee to
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per-eent ( poi) f the gross land o f the deve opine„t. provide five percent (5%)
common open space if the entire development is comprised of buildable lots, a minimum of
sixteen thousand (16,000) square feet, not including landscape buffers along arterial or
collector roadways; or as shown in Table 11-3G-3.
a. Table 11-3G-3 Minimum Open Space Re uirements
Zone
% Open Space
R-2
10%
R-4
12%
R-8
15%
R-15
15%
b. When a project is located in more than one zone, the calculation of the minimum
required open space shall be based on the land area in each zone, and the total for each
zone shall be combined for the minimum required open space for the entire project.
2. Otie additional site amenity that meets the standards as set forth in subseetion C of
seefien shall be required for- eaeh additional twenty (20) aer-es of development afea.
Minimum open space quality requirements: All open space areas shall meet the following
quality standards:
a. The development plan shall demonstrate that the oven space has been integrated into
the development as a priority and not for the use of land after all other elements of the
development have been designed. Open space areas that has been given priority in the
development design have direct (a) direct pedestrian access, (b) high visibility, c)
comply with Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) standards,
and deport a range of leisure and play activities and uses. Open grassy areas that
are crooked or jagged in shape, disconnected or isolated do not meet this standard.
b. Open space shall be accessible and well connected throughout the development. This
quality can be shown with open spaces that are centrally located within the
development; connected by pathways and visually accessible along collector streets;
or are a terminal view from a street.
c. The open space promotes the health and well-being of its residents. Open space shall
support active and passive uses for recreation, social gathering and relaxation to serve
the development.
B. Qualified Open Space: The following may alif . to meet the eOpen s-paee
1. Active or Passive In intended Open Spaces: Any open space that is active or passive
in its intended use, and accessible by all residents of the development, including, but not
limited to:
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a. Open grassy area of at least fifty feet by one hundred feet (50' x 100') in area and is
surrounded by the front yards of lots on at least 50% of its perimeter. Intervening
local streets may be located between the open space and front yards of the lots;
b. Community gardenLss,);
c. Ponds owater- f tttr-e ; Natural waterways, open ditches, and laterals. Protective
buffers a minimum of ten feet (10') in width dedicated for active access alongthese
hese
natural open spaces count toward meetingthe space minimum requirements;
d. Plaza with a minimum dimension of twenty feet (20') in all directions and including
hardscape, seating, lighting in conformance with the standards set forth in section 1I-
3A-I I and landscaing in conformance with the requirements set forth in Article 1I-
3B Landscaping Requirements; or
e. Linear open space area that is at least twenty feet (20') and up to fifty feet (50') in
width, has an access at each end, and is improved and landscaped as set forth in
subseetio,, E of this seetion; Article 11-3B Landscaping Requirements.
2 Additions T P4 he Pad Additions to the land area of a public park or other public open
space area.
3
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3
Full Area Of Buffer: One hundred percent (100%) The area- of the landscape buffer
along collector streets ffia-y eeu-n4 t,,w ,.a the required common open spnee and 4
Per-ee tage nOf-f- u„�� r: Ffifty percent (50%) of
the landscape buffer along arterial streets that
meet the enhanced buffer requirements that
follow may count toward the required common
open space.
a. Enhanced landscaping as set forth in Article
11-313 Landscaping Requirements
b. Multi -use pathway
c. Enhanced amenities with social interaction
characteristics;
d. Enhanced context with the surroundings.
4-5. Parkways Along re"ee*or and Local
Residential Streets: Parkways along local
residential streets that meet all of the
following standards may count toward the
common open space requirement:
a. The parkway meets the minimum width
standard as set forth in subsection 11-3A-
17E of this chapter.
b. The parkway is planted with street trees in accord with section 11-313-7, "Landscape
Buffers Along Streets", of this chapter.
c. Except for alley accessed dwelling units, the area for curb cuts to each residential lot
or common driveway shall be excluded from the open space calculation. For purposes
of this calculation, the curb cut area shall be twenty six feet (26') by the width of the
parkway.
56. Stormwater Detention Facilities: Stormwater
detention facilities when designed in accord with
section 11-3B-11, "Stormwater Integration", of this
chapter may count up to twentypercent 25%)
towards the qualified open space requirement if
located within a passive or active qualified open
space of at least twenty thousand (20,000) square
feet and is visible from a public street(s) on at least
two (2) sides.
4
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67. Open Water Ponds: "esthetieally desi .ne
Artificial open water ponds and holding areas
may comprise up to twenty five percent
(25%) of a required open space area when
developed with at least one site amenity in
accord with subse do r Table 11-3G-4 of
this section. All ponds with a permanent
water level shall meet the following
standards:
a. The pond shall have recirculated water; and
b. The pond shall be maintained such that it does not become a mosquito breeding
ground.
11-3G-4: Standards For Site Amenities
A. Site Amenities Minimum Standards: The minimum site amenity required is based on the
point value of the amenitv as set forth in subsection B of this section and the size of the
development.
1. For each five (5) acres of gross land area, one (1) point of site amenity is required. If the
calculation of the number of required site amenities results in a fraction, such number
shall be rounded up or down to the next whole number: fractions less than one-half (0.5)
shall be rounded down to the whole number and fractions which are one- half (0.5) and
greater shall be rounded up to the next higher whole number.
2. For projects forty (40) acres or more in size, multiple amenities are required from the
separate categories listed in Table 11-3G-4.
B. Qualified Site Amenities:
1. Qualified site amenities shall include, bu4 not be lifnited to the features listed in Table 11-
3G-4.
2. The assigned point value may be decreased depending on (a) the size, (b) quality of the
feature, (c) ease of maintenance, (d) durability, (e) integration with other open space or
amenities and (f)year-round usability. The burden will be on the applicant to demonstrate
that the amenity meets these criteria.
3. Through the Alternative Compliance provisions asset forth in Section 11-5B-5:
5
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a. Amenities not listed in Table 11-3G-4 mad
be considered.
b. Amenities that are a centerpiece or of
benefit to the entire city; that creatively
create a sense of uniqueness to the
neighborhood; or preserve or represent the
historic context of the place may be
substituted for required open space as set
forth in section 11-3G-3. Application fees
for alternative compliance for such
amenities shall be waived until MATE].
Table 11-3G-4 Site Amenities and Point V
Site Amenity
Maximum
Point Value
Quality of Life Amenities
Business center
2
Clubhouse between-5 000 - -,OWsf or geater in size
6
Clubhouse less than 5,000 sf or o en air ramadas
3
Semi -enclosed clubhouse
3
Fitness facilities 5,000 sf or greater in size
4
Fitness facilities less than 5,000 sf
2
Locker rooms in association with clubhouse or fitness
2
facility
Public art
1
Fountain
2
Picnic area on a site 5,000 sf or greater in size
2
Picnic area on a site less than 5,000 sf
1
Fitness course
2
Open sace commons
3
Open sace commons Shelter
2
Communication infrastructure with fiber o tic cable
2
Dog Park
2
Dog waste station
0.5
Commercial outdoor kitchen
2
Outdoor fire ring
1
Recreation activity area amenities
Swimming pool
4
Swimming pool changing facilities and restrooms
6
Interactive splash pads, fountains or water features
4
Tot Lot
1
Playground
3
Sports coj!rts awed
4
Sports courts, unpaved
2
0
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Site Amenity
Maximum
Point Value
Sports fields
5
Pedestrian or bicycle circulations stem amenities
When aligned with a waterway
1 Per 1/4 mile
When aligned with a linear open sace
1 per 1/4 mile
Multi -use pgLhways
2 per 1/4 mile
Multi -modal amenities
Bicycle storage
2
Bicycle storage adjacent to transit stop or park and ride
3
lot
Bicycle repair station
1
Sheltered transit sto
2
Park and Ride Lot with a minimum of 20 spaces
5
C. Quality of lifeamenities: amenity standards:
1. Clubhouse is an enclosed or semi -enclosed space (including oven air or ramadas) for
neighborhood events and support facilities for recreation. The points for a clubhouse
maybe combined with the points for other amenities that maybe located within the
clubhouse including fitness and business centers. snorts courts. swimming pools and
locker rooms.
2. Fitness facilities is an enclosed space equipped with commercial grade sports exercise
equipment.
3. Public art is custom designed for the site size, location, and surroundingsetting_
4. Fountain is custom designed for the site size, location, and surroundingsetting,
etting_
5. Picnic area includes tables, benches, landscaping, and a structure for shade.
6. Fitness course with a minimum of six (6) stations permanently installed.
7 Additional "alified open sraw Open space commons of at least twenty thousand
(20,000) square feet, which is surrounded on all sides by the front yards of lots.
Intervening streets may be located between the open space and lots.
8. Communication infrastructure meeting the following minimumstandards.: with two (2)
conduits running side by side to and through the development; each conduit being two
inches (2") in diameter. The plie n4 shall be eligible f a o ra amenity there 0
7
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9. Dog Park owner f edit es meeting the following minimufnstandards! with: -}deg
washing station with dr-ain to sanitary sewer system and tfash f!eeeptae and a) bags for
dog waste disposal; or--b) double entrance gate, c) bench(es) and d) fencing to enclose a
minimum of 0.75 aer-e of five thousand (5,000)square feet and secured open space for an
off leash dog park and tfash ro eptae es and bans for- dog waste disposal. The open space
shall count toward any required open space.
10. Dog waste station is an installed in the ,ground fixture with waste disposal bags and trash
receptacle.
i.11. Neighborhood business center meeting the following standards:
a. The area devoted to the business center shall not exceed one thousand (1,000)
square feet.
b. The business center shall provide access to high speed internet, fiber optic cable,
or communication infrastructure and/or facilities with a minimum capacity
equivalent to a thirty-six (36) strand single mode fiber optic cable.
c. The business center shall, at a minimum, provide workspaces for three (3) people,
a meeting space for six (6) people, and access to printing facilities.
d. The business center may be leased to a private entity for operation and
maintenance, however the property shall be owned by the owners' association.
e. The business center operator may charge fees for use or membership; however
members of the owners' association should be given priority in use of the business
center.
12. Commercial outdoor kitchen is an outdoor or semi enclosed space that includes
commercial grade appliances for food preparation and sink with utility connections.
13. Outdoor fire ring that meets fire safety standards, is located on a noncombustible surface
and includes fixed seating.
D. Recreation activity amenity standards:
1. Swimming pool constructed in .,.ground and meeting all Building Code requirements.
2. Interactive splash pads, fountains or other water features are permanent, commercially
,grade constructed with filtration systems.
3. Tot lot with commercial grade play equipment scaled and designed for the use and safety
of younger children. Benches for seating shall be nearby.
0
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4 !''1,ildre 's lay s*m,,tufe ; Playground on a site with a minimum size of five thousand
(5,000) square feet and including benches for seating and multiple commercial grade play
structures. of
5. Sports courts with markings and including benches for seating. Sports court may include
tennis, basketball, pickleball, horseshoes, bocce ball, cornhole, or golf putting
6. Sports fields for neighborhood scaled sports activities.
E. Pedestrian or bicycle circulation system .
amenity standards: The system a) is not required sidewalks adjacent to public right-of-way;
b) The -sue connects to existing or planned pedestrian or bicycle routes outside the
development, as designated in the Meridian pathways master plan; and c) The system is
designed and constructed in accord with adopted City standards.
F. Multi -modal amenity standards:
1. Bicycle storage is a roofed space for the secure storage of a minimum of six bicycles.
2. Bicyclepair station is a fixed installation with tools and an air pump.
3. e Transit stops, park and ride facilities or other multimodal facilities to
encourage alternative automobile transportation.
4. Sheltered transit stop is covered with a roof and transparent enclosure on three sides.
5. Park and Ride facilitypaved off-street parking area for a minimum of twenty vehicles
located adjacent to a public transit stop.
11-3G-5: General Standards for Common Open Space and Site Amenities
A. Location:
1. The eemmon open spaees and site amenities shall be leeated on a eenffnoa lot of- an area
,its, a eenffnon maintenanee agreement.
1. Common open space shall be grouped contiguously with open space from adjacent
developments whenever feasible.
2. Common open space and site amenities shall be located in areas of high visibility (i.e.,
along streets, where doors and windows overlook public areas, etc.) to avoid hidden areas
and corners, dark areas, unusable space and reduce the opportunity for crime.
3. Common open space shall be located in areas that maximize pedestrian and bicycle
connectivity within and outside the neighborhood.
9
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4. Common open space in mixed use developments may be allowed to deviate from the
location standards through the alternative compliance process as set forth in Section I I -
5B-5.
B. Requifed Improvements and Landscaping:
1. Common open space shall be suitably improved for its intended use, except that natural
features such as wetlands, rock outcroppings, ponds er-eok , etanatural waterway
riparian areas, open ditches, and laterals may be left unimproved.
2. Common open space shall comply with the applicable landscaping requirements set forth
in Article 11-3B Landscaping Requirements of this Title.
C. Maintenance:
1. The common open spaces and site amenities shall be located on a common lot or an area
with a common maintenance agreement. Aeommonopenllspaeerd site amenities shall be
ts the 0 0io r.
2. Maintenance and operation of the open space and site amenities shall be the
responsibility of the property owners' or homeowners' association.
3. Land dedicated as common open space may be conveyed to the City, where the Parks and
Recreation Department agrees to accept conveyance and when the common open space
area is in the public interest and complies with one of the following_:
a. Is adjacent to an established or planned City park or school grounds; or
b. Connects to a regional -pathway.
10
11-4-3-27: MULTI -FAMILY DEVELOPMENT:
Multi -family developments with multiple properties shall be considered as one property
for the purpose of implementing the standards set forth in this section.
A. Purpose:
1. To implement the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan:
a. Plan for safe, attractive, and well -maintained neighborhoods that have ample
open space, and generous amenities that provide varied lifestyle choices.
b. Require the design and construction of pathways connections, easy pedestrian
and bicycle access to parks, safe routes to schools, and the incorporation of
usable open space with quality amenities as part of new multi -family residential
and mixed -use developments.
-12. To create multi -family housing that is safe and convenient and that enhances the
quality of life of its residents.
a. 2-.To create quality buildings and designs for multi -family development that
enhance the visual character of the community.
b. 3-.To create building and site design in multi -family development that is sensitive
to and well integrated with the surrounding neighborhood.
c. 4-.To create open space areas that contribute to the aesthetics of the community,
provide an attractive setting for buildings, and provide safe, interesting outdoor
spaces for residents. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
B. Site Design:
1. Buildings shall provide a minimum setback of ten feet (10') unless a greater setback
is otherwise required by this title and/or title 10 of this Code. Building setbacks shall take
into account windows, entrances, porches and patios, and how they impact adjacent
properties. (Ord. 19-1833, 7-9-2019)
2. All on site service areas, outdoor storage areas, waste storage, disposal facilities, and
transformer and utility vaults shall be located in an area not visible from a public street, or
shall be fully screened from view from a public street.
3. A minimum of eighty (80) square feet of private, usable open space shall be provided
for each unit. This requirement can be satisfied through porches, patios, decks, and/or
enclosed yards. Landscaping, entryway and other accessways shall not count toward this
requirement. In circumstances where strict adherence to such standard would create
inconsistency with the purpose statements of this section, the Director may consider an
alternative design proposal through the alternative compliance provisions as set forth in
section 11-513-5 of this title.
4. For the purposes of this section, vehicular circulation areas, parking areas, and
private usable open space shall not be considered common open space.
5. No recreational vehicles, snowmobiles, boats or other personal recreation vehicles
shall be stored on the site unless provided for in a separate, designated and screened area.
6. The parking shall meet the requirements set forth in chapter 3, "Regulations
Applying To All Districts", of this title.
7. Developments with twenty (20) units or more shall provide the following:
a. A property management office.
b. A maintenance storage area.
c. A central mailbox location, including provisions for parcel mail, that provide safe
pedestrian and/or vehicular access.
d. A directory and map of the development at an entrance or convenient location for
those entering the development. (Ord. 18-1773, 4-24-2018)
C. Common Open Space Design Requirements:
1. The total baseline land area of all qualified common open space shall equal or
exceed ten percent (10%) of the gross land area for multi -family developments of
five (5) acres or more. In no case shall the multi -family development exceed a total
of fifteen percent (15%) common open space.
2. All common open space shall meet the following standards:
a. The development plan shall demonstrate that the open space has been
integrated into the development as a priority and not for the use of land after all
other elements of the development have been designed. Open space areas that
has been given priority in the development design have (a) direct pedestrian
access, (b) high visibility, (c) comply with Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CTED) standards. and (d) support a range of leisure and
play activities and uses. Irregular shaped, disconnected or isolated open spaces
shall not meet this standard.
b. Open space shall be accessible and well connected throughout the development.
This quality can be shown with open spaces that are centrally located within the
development, accessible by pathway and visually accessible along collector
streets or as a terminal view from a street.
c. The open space promotes the health and well-being of its residents. Open space
shall support active and passive uses for recreation, social gathering and
relaxation to serve the development.
3. All multi -family projects over 20 units shall provide at least one common grassy
area integrated into the site design allowing for general activities by all ages. This
area may be included in the minimum required open space total. Projects that
provide safe access to adjacent public parks or parks under a common HOA, without
crossing an arterial roadway, are exempt from this standard.
a. Minimum size of common grassy area shall be at least fifty feet by one hundred
feet (50' x 100') in area. This area shall increase proportionately as the number
of units increase and shall be commensurate to the size of the multi -family
development as determined by the decision -making body. Where this area
cannot be increased due to site constraints, it may be included elsewhere in the
development.
b. Alternative Compliance is available for these standards, if a project has a unique
targeted demographic: utilizes other place -making design elements in Old -Town
or Mixed -Use future land use designations with collectively integrated and
shared open space areas.
-14.In addition to the baseline open space requirement, a minimum area of outdoor
common open space shall be provided as follows:
a. One hundred fifty (150) square feet for each unit containing five hundred (500)
or less square feet of living area.
b. Two hundred fifty (250) square feet for each unit containing more than five
hundred (500) square feet and up to one thousand two hundred (1,200) square
feet of living area.
c. Three hundred fifty (350) square feet for each unit containing more than one
thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet of living area.
2-5.Common open space shall be not less than four hundred (400) square feet in area,
and shall have a minimum length and width dimension of twenty feet (20').
46.In phased developments, common open space shall be provided in each phase of the
development consistent with the requirements for the size and number of dwelling
units. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
47.Unless otherwise approved through the conditional use process, common open
space areas shall not be adjacent to collector or arterial streets unless separated from
the street by a berm or constructed barrier at least four feet (4') in height, with breaks
in the berm or barrier to allow for pedestrian access.
D. Site Development Amenities:
1. All multi -family developments shall provide for quality of life, open space and
recreation amenities to meet the particular needs of the residents as follows:
a. Quality of life:
(1) Clubhouse.
(2) Fitness facilities.
(3) Enclosed bike storage.
(4) Public art such as a statue.
b. Open space:
(1) Open grassy area Off -At I-e-a-st -fifty by one hundr-pli fppt (90x 100') in size.
(12-) Community garden.
(2-3) Ponds or water features.
(34) Plaza.
c. Recreation:
(1) Pool.
(2) Walking trails.
(3) Children's play structures.
(4) Sports courts.
2. The number of amenities shall depend on the size of multi- family development as
follows:
a. For multi -family developments with less than twenty (20) units, two (2) amenities
shall be provided from two (2) separate categories.
b. For multi -family development between twenty (20) and seventy five (75) units,
three (3) amenities shall be provided, with one from each category.
c. For multi -family development with seventy five (75) units or more, four (4)
amenities shall be provided, with at least one from each category.
d. For multi -family developments with more than one hundred (100) units, the
decision making body shall require additional amenities commensurate to the size of the
proposed development.
3. The decision making body shall be authorized to consider other improvements in
addition to those provided under this subsection D, provided that these improvements
provide a similar level of amenity. (Ord. 05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005)
E. Landscaping Requirements:
1. Development shall meet the minimum landscaping requirements in accord with
chapter 3, "Regulations Applying To All Districts", of this title. (Ord. 16-1672, 2-16-2016)
2. All street facing elevations shall have landscaping along their foundation. The
foundation landscaping shall meet the following minimum standards:
a. The landscaped area shall be at least three feet (Y) wide.
b. For every three (3) linear feet of foundation, an evergreen shrub having a
minimum mature height of twenty four inches (24") shall be planted.
c. Ground cover plants shall be planted in the remainder of the landscaped area. (Ord.
05-1170, 8-30-2005, eff. 9-15-2005; amd. Ord. 16-1672, 2-16-2016)
F. Maintenance And Ownership Responsibilities: All multi -family developments shall
record legally binding documents that state the maintenance and ownership
responsibilities for the management of the development, including, but not limited to,
structures, parking, common areas, and other development features. (Ord. 16-1672, 2-16-
2016)