HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD 2006-37 - UDC Chap 8 AmendmentOrdinance No. 4 00 P °37
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Georgetown, Texas, amending Chapter 8
( "Landscaping and Buffering ") of the Unified Development Code, Passed and Adopted on the
111h Day of March 2003, Repealing Conflicting Ordinances and Resolutions; Including a
Severability Clause; and Establishing an Effective Date.
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted the Unified Development Code (UDC) on March
11, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 082404 -BB on August 24, 2004
which outlines the annual amendment process for the UDC; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission forwarded their list of recommended
UDC amendments to the City Council following their meeting of October 4, 2005; and
WHEREAS, the City Council approved the list of proposed UDC amendments at their
meeting of October 11, 2005; and
WHEREAS, the City Council directed Staff to begin preparation of draft language for the
approved list of UDC amendments; and
WHEREAS, a Public Workshop was conducted on March 23 and March 30, 2006 to allow
for public review of the draft UDC amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a duly noticed Public
Hearing on April 4, 2006 to consider a recommendation to the City Council on these UDC
amendments; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission at their meeting of April 4, 2006 made
a report to the City Council recommending approval of the proposed UDC amendments; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
GEORGETOWN, TEXAS THAT:
SECTION 1. The facts and recitations contained in the preamble of this ordinance are
hereby found and declared to be true and correct, and are incorporated by reference herein and
expressly made a part hereof, as if copied verbatim. The City Council hereby finds that this
ordinance implements the Century Plan as follows:
Policy The community enjoys the benefits of well - planned land use in which
conflicting needs are balanced.
Goal: Develop policies which enhance the quality of life for the community while
preserving the unique character and natural resources.
Strategy: Implement the Unified Development Code (UDC) to ensure consistency of
the City's development ordinances to preserve the character of the
community,
and further finds that the enactment of this ordinance is not inconsistent or in conflict with any
other Century Plan Ends; as required by Section 2.03 of the Administrative Chapter of the Policy
Plan.
SECTION 2. Chapter 8 "Landscaping and Buffering" is hereby amended in its entirety as
follows:
Chapter 8. Landscaping and Buffering
Section 8.01 Purpose
8.01.010 Authority
The provisions of this Chapter are adopted pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Chapter
211 and the City Charter.
8.01.020 Purpose
This Chapter establishes requirements for provision of landscaping elements, buffering and
screening for the purpose of providing orderly, safe, attractive and healthful development of land
located within the community and promoting the health, safety and general welfare of the
community.
A. The regulations contained herein are necessary to enhance the community's
ecological, environmental and aesthetic qualities.
B. The City of Georgetown experiences frequent droughts; therefore, it is a purpose of
this Section to encourage the use of drought resistant plants that do not consume
large quantities of water.
8.01.030 Applicability
The requirements and standards for the installation and maintenance of landscape elements and
site improvements as set forth herein shall apply to all development within the City of
Georgetown as set forth below. All new development subject to these regulations shall be in full
compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
Section 8.02 Landscape Plan
The Landscape Plan is required as part of a Site Plan submittal. The components of a Landscape
Plan are Primary Landscape, Street Trees, Tree Canopy, Parking Lot Landscape, Gateway
Overlay District Landscape, Buffervards, Screening, Replacement and a Summary.
A. The applicant or an authorized agent must submit and receive approval of a
Landscape Plan demonstrating compliance with the landscape requirements
contained herein.
B. A Landscape Architect or other certified professional shall design the Landscape
Plan to ensure the design will provide adequate spacing and meet the
requirements for healthy and aesthetic development. The plan should include a
statement of compliance and be signed and sealed by the designer.
C. Plans shall show all dimensions, types and quantity of materials, width of buffer
yards and overlay districts, size and spacing of vegetative materials, and irrigation
standard.
D. The Tree Survey should be included as part of this plan, if applicable.
E. The following species of trees are required to be removed and are excluded from
meeting any landscape requirements: Hackberry, Chinaberry, Ashe Juniper
(Cedar), Bois d' Arc, Chinese Tallow and Mesquite. The retention of any of these
species must be based on the health and welfare of surrounding protected trees or
groups of trees and must be approved by the City.
F. Section 8.12 provides for Alternative Landscape Plan options.
8.02.010 Components of a Landscape Plan:
A. Primary Landscape (Section 8.03) — A calculation of the square footage of the
impervious coverage times the percentage of landscape required, see Table
8.03.010. The requirements for Primary Landscape may be satisfied by Street
Trees, Parking Lot Landscape and Gateway Overlay District Landscaping,
however the greater of the total calculations shall apply. (See Section 8.0 ## for
Landscape Credits; credits may not be applied to other than Primary Landscape
requirements. See Section 11.03 for Tree Preservation and Replacement).
B. Tree Canopy (Section 8.04) — The Tree Canopy is a calculation of the percentage of
the entire lot or development area based on the mature crown area of all trees.
Existing and planted trees may be combined to meet the Tree Canopy requirement.
Mature Tree Canopy requirements are based on Table 8.04.020.
C. Street Trees (Section 8.05) — Street trees are calculated at one tree per 50 linear feet
of frontage on a street. This calculation may count toward the Primary Landscape
requirement.
D. Parking Lot Landscape (Section 8.06) — The requirement for placement of
landscape within the parking lot area is calculated on the number of parking
spaces located between the building and the right -of -way and distance from the
trees in accordance with Section 8.06.020 A. That calculation may count toward
meeting the Primary Landscape requirements.
E. Gateway Overlay District Landscape (Section 8.07) — Gateways are a zoning
overlay district requirement that applies to street frontage along entry ways into
our community. Gateways (See Map, Section 4.08) are established in accordance
with Section 4.08. The calculations for Gateway Landscape may count toward
meeting the Primary Landscape requirements.
F. Bufferyards (Section 8.08) - Bufferyard requirements are based on zoning district
separation. The Bufferyard calculations are a stand alone requirement and may
not count toward the Primary Landscape or any other requirement.
G. Screening (Section 8.09) - Screening requirements apply to Parking Lots (in
addition to Parking Lot Landscaping), Mechanical Equipment (roof, ground and
wall mounted), Waste Containers and Loading Docks. All screening materials
must be evergreen and create a solid screen affect. Screening landscape may not
count toward the Primary Landscape or any other requirement.
H. Replacement (Section 8.10) - Trees identified for preservation that must be
removed shall meet the replacement requirements and be reflected on the
Landscape Plan. (See Section 11.03) Replacement Trees may not also count toward
the Primary Landscape or any other requirement.
I. Landscape Summary (Section 8.11) - A summary of the above components should
be reflected in a Table. You may bracket the components that are being counted
toward the Primary Landscape requirements
Section 8.03 Primary Landscape
8.03.010 Primary Landscaped Area: A minimum percentage of the total lot area of property on
which development, construction or reconstruction occurs after the effective date of this article
shall be devoted to landscape development in accordance with the requirements.
Note
In single- family or two - family Residential Districts (AG, RS, RE, RL or TF), Landscaping area and
Tree Canopy requirements only apply to Non - Residential uses.
MU -DT District should refer to the Downtown Design Guidelines Manual
See Section 4.04.020 H. and I. for MU and TOD District information
Required landscaping is calculated as a percent of impervious cover, not site area.
8.03.020 Standards
A. Primary Landscape Calculation: A parcel's landscaped area shall be calculated as a
percentage of impervious cover. For every 600 square feet of landscape area
required, two trees with a minimum 2" caliper selected from the tree list provided
in Table 8.02.04.020 and four shrubs shall be planted. The total caliper calculation
of trees may be substituted for the total number of trees. Calculations must be
shown on the Landscape Plan.
Impervious coverage _s.f. (See Section 8.03.020 B & C for credits and additions) _ _s.f. x _%
(Table 8.02.03.010) _ _s.f./ 600 = _units. _Units x 2 trees = _ trees, _units x 4 shrubs
shrubs.
B. Landscape Credits for Primary Landscape: The following may count towards
meeting the Landscaping requirements:
1. Any area improved with landscaping by the property owner as described
in Section 8.03.010.
2. 25% Undeveloped land within the 100 year floodplain- restricted areas.
3. Up to 25 percent of paved parking areas where constructed with brick
pavers or pervious pavement systems as approved by the Director.
4. All street trees planted within the adjacent right of way.
5. Overlay District plantings, street trees within the property line, and
parking lot trees.
C. Landscape Additions for Primary Landscape: (See Section 9.02.020) Off - Street required
parking in excess of 100 percent shall provide an additional 25 percent of the parcel's
calculation for Primary Landscape and Tree Canopy requirements as described in Table
8.02.010,
Primary Landscape:
Lot impervious coverage s.f. + 25% = total impervious coverage
Tree Canopy:
Lot area s.f. + 25% = total lot area
D. Landscape Location: The landscaping shall be placed upon that portion of a tract
or lot that is being developed. Undeveloped portions of a tract or lot shall not be
considered landscaped, except as specifically approved by the Director.
E. Replacement of Primary Landscape requirements: Should a tree or shrub die or be
removed within 2 years of the Landscape Plan approval for which credit has been
obtained pursuant to the terms of this Section, landscape development sufficient to
equal the area credited shall be required. A small tree that will have a mature
crown similar to the tree removed may be substituted if the planting area or
pervious cover provided for the larger tree is retained.
Section 8.04 Tree Canopy
8.04.010 Tree Canopy Area — Tree Canopy Area is a percentage of the entire lot square footage or
development area, in accordance with Table 8.03.010. The calculation of the mature crown area of
all retained and planted trees is based on Table 8.04.020. Any tree not on the tree list will be
estimated by the Director using standard landscaping references The Director may approve
alternate plans due to special site conditions, which may, for reasons such as safety, affect the
ability to meet these regulations.
8.04.020 Standards
A. Tree Canopy Calculation: The canopy is measured by computing the area that the
mature canopy will encompass, based on Table 8.03.010. The mature canopy as
listed on Table 8.04.020 will be estimated for existing trees based on the type of
tree. Calculations must be shown on the Landscape Plan.
Total lot area_s.f. x _% (Table 8.03.010 = _s.f. of tree canopy at mature growth. (See Table
8.04.020 for mature canopy in square feet)
Common Name of Tree
Mature Canopy s.f.
(Table 8.04.020)
Quantity of Trees
Square footage (s.f.)
ofcanopy
List each type of tree
Total
s.f.
Kalmia latifolia
Laurel, Texas Mountain
79
25
Leucaena retusa
Leadtree, Goldenball
79
25
Vitex Anus- castus
Lilac Tree, Vitex
79
25
Arbutus texana
Madrone, Texas
314
100
Magnolia grandiflora
Magnolia, Southern
1256
225
Acer grandidentaturn
Maple, Bigtooth
707
175
Proso is glandulosa
Mesquite, Honey
707
175
La erstroemia spp.
Myrtle, Crape
79
25
Quercus macrocar a
Oak, Bur
1256
225
Quercus muhlenbergii
Oak, Chinquapin
1256
225
Quercus glaucoides
Oak, Lacey
314
100
Quercus vir iniana
Oak, Live
1256
225
Quercus polymorpha
Oak, Monterey
1256
225
Quercus stellata
Oak, Post
314
100
Quercus sinuate brevifolia
Oak, Shin
1256
225
Quercus shumardii
Oak, Shumard
1963
300
Quercus sinuate
Oak, Texas Red
1256
225
Bauhinia con esta
Orchid Tree, Anacacho
79
25
Carva illneonsis
Pecan
707
175
Diospyros texana
Persimmon, Texas
79
25
Pinus pinea
Pine, Italian Stone
314
100
Pinus thun er ii
Pine, Japanese Black
314
100
Pistacia chinensis
Pistache, Chinese
1256
225
Pistacia texana
Pistachio, Texas
79
25
Prunus Mexicana
Plum, Mexican
314
100
Koelreuteria paniculata
Raintree, Golden
314
1 100
Cercis texensis
Redbud, Texas
314
100
Cotinus obovatus
Smoketree, American
177
65
Sa indus drummondii
Soa berg , Western
314
100
Plantanus Mexicana
Sycamore, Mexican
1256
225
Planus occidentalis
Sycamore, Texas
1256
225
Rhus co allina and glabra
Sumac, Flameleaf
79
25
Ju lans major
Walnut, Arizona
314
100
Ju lans ni ra
Walnut, Eastern
707
175
Ju lans microar a
Walnut, Little
314
100
Chilo sis linearis
Willow, Desert
314
100
B. Tree Canopy Credits: The following may count towards meeting the Tree Canopy
requirements:
1. All existing trees that are retained and all planted trees.
2. All street trees planted within the adjacent right of way.
3. Overlay District trees, street trees within the property line, and parking lot
trees.
C. Location - Trees counted toward Tree Canopy requirements shall be located on
that portion of a tract or lot that is being developed. Trees located on undeveloped
portions of a tract or lot shall not be considered for Tree Canopy credit, except as
specifically approved by the Director.
D. Replacement of Tree Canopy requirements: Should a tree be removed withal 2
years of the Landscape Plan approval for which credit has been obtained pursuant
to the terms of this Section, replacement of the trees equal to the credited shall be
required. A small tree with a mature crown similar to the tree removed may be
substituted if the planting area or pervious cover provided for the larger tree is
retained.
Section 8.05 Street Trees
8.05.010 Street Tree Requirements: Street trees must be located in the landscape easement
according to the Design Standards set out in Section 12.03.020, except that up to 20 percent of
street trees on a block may be planted between the sidewalk and the primary building, but within
10 feet of the sidewalk. Where poor soil conditions or other factors require additional flexibility in
planting, the Planning Director may approve alternative spacing of trees, but not reduction in the
number of required trees.
8.05.020 Standards
A. Street Tree Calculation: Street trees must be planted at the average rate of one tree
for every 50 feet of street frontage. Street trees required by this Section may be
counted toward the Primary Landscape and Tree Canopy requirements.
Lot frontage Linear feet (l.f.)/ 50 = # of Trees, minus _ existing trees
8.04.020 for credit) = Total # of Trees to be planted.
(See Section
B. Street Tree Credits: The following may be counted toward the requirements for
street trees:
1. Existing trees that meet these standards may be credited as street trees.
2. Existing trees within the adjacent right -of -way may be credited as street
trees.
C. Tree Size and Species - Trees shall be a minimum of two caliper inches measured
four and a half (4 -1/2) feet above finished grade immediately after planting. Trees
shall be selected from the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List located in the
UDC Development Manual, and planted in accordance with standards of Section
8.14, or as approved by the Director. Preference shall be given to tree species native
to the region.
D. Tree Maintenance of Street Trees: Individual owners shall be responsible for the
maintenance of all street trees planted to meet the requirements of this Section,
unless the trees are planted in a common landscape lot area, in which case a
Homeowner's Association shall be responsible for maintenance.
1. Clear sight triangles, as set forth in 12.03.050D. shall be maintained at all
times.
2. A minimum 13 foot - 6 inch vertical clearance at the street level shall be
maintained at all times.
Section 8.06 Parking Lot Landscape
8.06.010 Parking Lot Landscaping - Landscaping provided to meet this Section may be applied to
the site landscaping requirements. Parking lot landscaping must meet the City's traffic safety
standards as adopted in the Code of Ordinances for maintaining visibility at intersections,
driveways and access easements.
8.06.020 Standards
A. Parking Lot Landscape Calculation:
1. The parking lot landscape area requirements are based on the percentage of
required parking located between the building fagade and the street right -
of -way:
a. Less than 25 percent of the parking located between the building
fagade and the right -of -way requires 13 square feet of landscaping
per parking stall.
b. Between 25 percent to 75 percent of the parking located between the
building fagade and the right -of -way requires 18 square feet of
landscaping per parking stall.
C, Greater than 75 percent of the parking located between the building
fagade and the right -of -way requires 23 square feet of landscaping
per parking stall.
2. Internal Parking Lot Landscaping - Two trees and four shrubs shall be
planted for each 600 square feet of required landscape area.
B. Location - All new trees within a parking lot shall be planted in a pervious area of
at least 100 square feet and have a minimum interior dimension of 8.5 feet wide.
However, up to 20 percent of the required trees in accordance to Section 8.02.030
may be planted in islands of at least 25 square feet and have a minimum interior
dimension of five feet.
C. To reduce the thermal impact of unshaded parking lots, trees shall be planted
throughout parking lots so that no portion of the lot is more than 60 feet away
from the trunk of a tree unless otherwise approved by the Director.
< 25% =13 s.f. per parking stall
25 -75% =18 s.f. per parking stall
75 %> = 23 s.f. per parking stall
_s.f. per parking stall x _number of parking stalls = _s.f. /600 = _units
units x 2 trees = _# of trees units x 4 shrubs = _ of shrubs
Section 8.07 Gateway Overlay District Landscape
8.07.010 Purpose and Intent - The purpose of the Landscaping Requirements for Gateways is to
protect and enhance the entrance corridors to the City of Georgetown, which will:
1. Establish an entrance corridor that heralds the approach to the City;
2. Define the arrival to a destination;
3. Link common elements together; and
4. Provide consistent landscaping.
8.07.020 Applicability -Where Site Plan review is required in accordance with Section 3.09,
Gateway Overlay District standards shall be applied for all properties within the specific
corridors listed below. Landscaping for properties along these gateways shall comply with the
requirements set forth. Gateway planting requirements may be credited toward the Primary
Landscape requirements.
A. Highway Gateways
1, I.H. 35 Frontage Roads both north and south;
2. Highway 195;
3. Highway 81 (Austin Avenue), north of intersection with Williams Drive
and ending at the intersection with NE Inner Loop.
B. Scenic /Natural Gateways
1. F.M. 2243 (Leander Road) located west of the proposed Inner Loop Road
intersection;
2. Highway 29 (University Avenue) located west of I.H. 35;
3, F.M. 2338 (Williams Drive) located northwest of the Booty's Crossing
Road /Lakeway Drive intersection;
4. F.M 971 located east of the of NE Inner Loop intersection.
C. Downtown Gateways
1, Highway 81 (Austin Avenue) north of the intersection of Inner Loop road
and ending at the southern portion of the Downtown Overlay District
2. Highway 81 (Austin Avenue) starting at the north portion of the
Downtown Overlay District and ending at the intersection of Williams
Drive
3, Highway 29 (University Avenue) starting at the west portion of the
Downtown Overlay District and ending at the intersection of I.H. 35.
4. Highway 29 (University Avenue) starting at the east portion of the
Downtown Overlay District and ending at the intersection of NE Inner
Loop Road
► ' ;# it `
Palge 11 of 25
5. F.M. 2338 (Williams Drive) east of the intersection of I.H. 35 and ending at
the intersection with Austin Avenue,
8.07.030 Standards
A. Gateway Overlay District Landscape Calculation: The Gateway Overlay District
landscaped area shall be calculated by multiplying the lot width along the right -of-
way times the depth of the landscape buffer. This square footage divided by 1000
determines the landscape units for calculation.
_length of frontage along Gateway right -of -way x _ feet (depth of buffer) = square feet
of Landscape Buffer, minus _ square feet of impervious coverage within this area = net
square feet of Landscape Buffer Area. (This area is required to be 80% live vegetation with no
gaps greater than 40 feet between trees or shrubbery) J 1000 square feet = _units.
_units x 2 trees = trees (minus) - _existing 4 "> hardwood trees within the
buffer area = net trees. units x 5 (5gal) shrubs = shrubs
B. Shared Design Standards for Gateways
1. Design Standards
Landscaping must comply with the remaining section of Chapter 8,
Landscaping and Buffering. Where regulations and requirements for
gateway corridors and the underlying zoning district conflict, the more
restrictive regulations apply.
2. Site Design
For all zoning districts, which require a front build -to -line provision in
accordance with Table 6.03.020, the property line will be replaced with the
edge of the gateway landscape easement.
3. Sidewalks
Sidewalks shall be required in accordance with Table 12.03.020. All
sidewalks shall be constructed and designed to coordinate the location of
any new sidewalks and to tie into existing sidewalks. If the sidewalk lies
within the gateway easement, a portion of the required landscaping shall
be between the sidewalk and the designed right -of -way.
4. Parking
No parking will be allowed within the gateway landscape buffer and all
screening of parking will be in accordance with Section 8.09.010.
5. Utilities
a. Drainage facilities are not allowed within the gateway landscape
buffer except those that are necessary to convey drainage in the
shortest possible route to or from the street right -of -way. Drainage
facilities include all detention ponds, water quality ponds, outlet
structures, drainage berms, improved channels, or other
improvements associated with the drainage improvements.
b. All detention ponds and water quality ponds within the gateway
overlay district buffer shall be designed to the greatest extent
possible to conform to the natural terrain of the land and if possible
as curvilinear, non - rectangular shapes. Detention ponds and water
quality ponds within the gateway buffer shall be designed so that the
facilities do not require chain link fencing or concrete walls (or
similar material). Outlet structures may be concrete. Native stone is
allowed for detention ponds and water quality ponds if the ponds
are located behind the gateway buffer and the stone is mortared in
place or dry stacked. Gabions are now allowed.
C. Fencing is allowed around detention ponds only if the fencing is
constructed of wrought iron or tubular steel or other similar
products. The fence shall be buffered from the street view by
planting 5- gallon evergreen shrubs and vines that will at maturity,
screen at least 40 percent of the view of the detention pond and
fence.
d. Separate ponds for each lot may be utilized if they are designed with
a curvilinear contoured shape, are designed not to require fencing,
are able to utilize vegetative slope stabilization with a s lope not
exceeding 3:1, and no structural retaining walls are used.
e. Dumpsters must be located and screened in accordance with Section
8.09.030.
f. All utilities installed for the development shall be located
underground. The developer shall not have to retrofit existing
utilities.
Table 8.07.040 Street Trees for Downtown Gateways
* See the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service publication on "How to Identify and Manage Oak Wilt in
Texas" available on www.texasoakwilt.=
8.07.050 Highway Gateways
The purpose for the Highway Gateway is to positively reflect the image of the City of
Georgetown by enhancing development with well designed site plans and landscaping while
maintaining a safe and effective interstate highway. Site design proposals along the Highway
Gateways shall break up large masses of parking and pavement with well planned open space
components. Additionally, careful analysis is required of view corridors from the highway.
Strategically placed tree massings should be located to frame desired views while screening
parking areas.
A. Landscape Buffer
A 25 landscape buffer is required and will be measured from the property line.
B. Landscaping Requirements
1. The landscape buffer area shall be landscaped and maintained with at least
80% live vegetative coverage excluding the area required for driveways,
sidewalks, bicycle paths, and drainage features. The remainder may be
impervious landscaping such as landscape rock, native rock walls,
fountains, statuary, and signs in compliance with Chapter 10 of the UDC.
No fencing is allowed within the landscape buffer.
2. Trees and shrubbery are required within the landscape buffer at a ratio of
at least two 2 -inch caliper shade trees and five 5- gallon shrubs for every
1,000 square feet of land. All vigorous, existing trees listed in Table
8.02.030A and /or the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List, that are
preserved shall count toward the required tree plantings if they meet or
exceed the minimum of 2 inches in caliper. All trees and shrubs species
shall be from the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List, located within
the Unified Development Code, Development Manual, and no more than
25% of all required trees and shrubs may be from the same species.
Landscaping shall include a variety of different species and should be
offset while providing informal massing and framing views. Planting
offsets should be of at least 6 feet and are required for every 60 feet of
continuous landscape plantings.
C. Service Areas
No service areas or service drives shall be permitted to front IH35, Austin Avenue,
or Highway 195.
8.07.060 Scenic /Natural Gateways
Scenic gateways are designated as reflecting the natural characteristics of the land. These
Georgetown roadways are prominent arterials and growth zones leading into the City. The
purpose of the design standards for the Scenic/Natural Gateway corridors is to maintain the
informal character that currently exists as they develop. For developments which occur along the
natural Scenic Gateways, designers shall integrate the natural characteristics of the land into the
landscape design. Informal tree massings, planting of under story trees, incorporation of native
stones and boulders and use of native grasses and wildflowers are examples of how to blend
required plantings in addition to the native plantings.
A. Landscape Buffer
A 25' landscape buffer is required and will be measured from the property line.
B. Landscaping Requirements
L The landscape buffer area shall be landscaped and maintained with at least
80% live vegetative coverage excluding the area required for driveways,
sidewalks, bicycle paths, and drainage features. The remainder may be
impervious landscaping such as landscape rock, native rock walls,
fountains, statuary, and signs in compliance with Chapter 10. No fencing is
allowed within the landscape buffer.
2. Trees and shrubbery are required within the landscape buffer at a ratio of
at least two 2 -inch caliper shade trees and five 5- gallon shrubs for every
1,000 square feet of land. All vigorous, existing trees listed in Table 8.04.020
and /or the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List, that are preserved shall
count toward the required tree plantings if they meet or exceed the
minimum of 2 inches in caliper. All trees and shrubs species shall be from
the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List, located within the Unified
Development Code, Development Manual, and no more than 25% of all
required trees and shrubs may be from the same species. Landscaping shall
include a variety of different species and should be offset while providing
informal massing and framing views. Planting offsets should be of at least 6
feet and are required for every 60 feet of continuous landscape plantings.
8.07.070 Downtown Gateways
The purpose of the Downtown Gateway Corridor standards is to enhance and unify the
appearance of the major roadways adjacent to, and directly leading into downtown Georgetown.
Because of the close proximity to the downtown district, the appearance of the corridors shall
reflect a more formal, urban extension of the downtown. In order to establish the formal
appearance, trees shall be evenly spaced and located equal distance behind the property line.
Intersections and parking lot entrances should be highlighted with ornamental plantings and
color to visually enhance the aesthetic appearance of the higher activity zones. Although the
intent for the Downtown Gateway corridors is to establish a consistent, formal landscape
appearance, the design standards are not intended to adversely affect existing trees along the
roadways. Variations to these standards are allowed to provide for the preservation of existing
trees.
A. Landscape Buffer
A 15' landscape buffer is required from the designated roadway and will be
measured from the property line.
B. Landscaping Requirements
1. The landscape buffer area shall be landscaped and maintained with at least
80% live vegetative coverage excluding the area required for driveways,
sidewalks, bicycle paths, and drainage features. The remainder may be
impervious landscaping such as landscape rock, native rock walls,
fountains, statuary, and signs in compliance with Chapter 10. No fencing is
allowed within the landscape buffer.
2. Trees and shrubbery are required within the landscape buffer at a ratio of
at least two 2 -inch caliper shade trees and five 5- gallon shrubs for every
1,000 square feet of land. Of the required allotment of trees, street trees
shall be spaced 40' and 5' behind the property line. Street trees must be
chosen from the Street Tree Palette for Downtown Gateways, Table
8.07.070. All vigorous, existing trees listed in Table 8.04.020 and /or the City
of Georgetown Preferred Plant List, that are preserved shall count toward
the required tree plantings if they meet or exceed the minimum of 2 inches
in caliper. All trees and shrubs species shall be from the City of
Georgetown Preferred Plant List, located within the Unified Development
Code, Development Manual, and no more than 25% of all required trees
and shrubs may be from the same species. Landscaping shall include a
variety of different species and should be offset while providing informal
massing and framing views. Planting offsets should be of at least 6 feet and
are required for every 60 feet of continuous landscape plantings.
Section 8.08 Bufferyards
8.08.010 District Boundary Bufferyard Requirements: Buffering is intended to prevent or
minimize any effects of a use on a property from affecting any adjacent property. The Director
may approve alternative landscaping plans due to special site conditions. Such plans must be
certified by a landscape architect registered by the State of Texas.
8.08.020 Standards
A. Bufferyard Calculations: Bufferyard calculations are in addition to all other
landscape requirements and may not be credited for other requirements.
Calculations must be shown on the Landscape Plan.
Type _ bufferyard required along (north, south, east, west) property line.
_width of planting area / 50 = units x
deciduous shrubs = deciduous shrubs
evergreen shrubs=
deciduous trees =
_evergreen shrubs
deciduous trees
evergreen trees = evergreen trees (Type C buffer yards Option 1 only)
B. General Bufferyard Standards
1. The landscaping required within Bufferyards shall be provided in addition
to the site landscaping required in Section 8.02.
2. All open space within a Bufferyard shall be planted with grass or other
vegetative ground cover.
3. A Bufferyard may provide additional plantings in excess of the minimum
requirements.
4. A Bufferyard may be interrupted in order to provide access (pedestrian or
vehicular) to adjacent parcels.
5. A Bufferyard may be designed with clustering of plantings to create a more
desirable design.
6. Spacing of trees must allow space for trees to grow into full maturity of the
tree canopy.
8.08.030 Bufferyard Requirements:
A buffer yard is required along the following District boundaries:
A. "Type A" Bufferyard Required
The "Type A" Bufferyard is required in the following situations:
1. Multifamily (MF) or Townhouse (TH) District adjacent to a lower intensity
Residential District.
2. Neighborhood Commercial (CN) District adjacent to any Residential
District.
B. "Type A" Bufferyard Description
A "Type A" Bufferyard must consist of one of the following options:
1. A 10 -foot wide planting area with an average of one deciduous shrub per
50 linear feet;
2. A 7.5 -foot wide planting area with an average of one deciduous shrub and
1 evergreen shrub per 50 linear feet; or
3. A 5 -foot wide planting with an average of two deciduous shrubs and 1
evergreen shrub per 50 linear feet.
C. "Type B" Bufferyard Required
The "Type B" Bufferyard is required in the following situations:
1. General Commercial (C -3) District located adjacent to any other Non -
Residential District.
2, Local Commercial (C -1), Mixed Use — Downtown (MU -DT), Office (OF) or
Business Park (BP) Districts adjacent to any Residential District.
D. "Type B" Bufferyard Description
A "Type B" Bufferyard must consist of one of the following options:
1. A 20 -foot wide planting area with an average of one deciduous shrub per
50 linear feet;
2. A 15 -foot wide planting area with an average of one deciduous shrub and 1
evergreen shrub per 50 linear feet; or
3. A 10 -foot wide planting area with an average of one deciduous tree, one
deciduous shrub and 1 evergreen shrub per 50 linear feet.
E. "Type C" Bufferyard Required
The "Type C" Bufferyard is required in the following
1. Industrial (IN) District located adjacent to any
2. General Commercial (C -3) District located
District.
F. "Type C' Buffer yard Description
A "Type C' Bufferyard must consist of one of the foil
situations:
other District.
adjacent to any Residential
Dwing options:
1. A 10 -foot wide planting with an average of two evergreen trees for each 50
linear feet of Bufferyard. In addition, this option requires a solid six -foot
screening wall constructed of brick, stone, reinforced concrete or other
similar two -sided masonry materials; or
2. A 30 -foot wide planting with a berm at least three feet tall and eight feet
wide, with an average of two deciduous shrubs and two evergreen shrubs
at the top of the berm per 50 linear feet.
G. Bufferyards adjacent to the ETJ
1. A "Type B" Bufferyard shall be required for development adjacent to
platted residential uses as established by the City of Georgetown Land Use
Plan.
Section 8.09 Screening
All planting materials used for screening purposes shall be an evergreen species. Screening is
required in order to minimize visual impacts from surrounding properties and right -of -ways.
Screening requirements are in addition to all other landscape requirements and may not be
credited or counted toward meeting other requirements.
8.09.010 Parking Lot Screening
A. All parking must be screened from public rights -of -way using screening methods
as described below.
B. All parking lot screening will be maintained at least 36 inches in height, and be
achieved through one of the following methods:
1. A berm;
2. A planting screen (hedge);
3. A wall; or
4. A combination of any of the above along with trees.
C. Live screening shall be capable of providing a solid 36 -inch screen within two
years, as determined by a landscape architect or other licensed professional, and
shall be planted in a prepared bed at least three feet in width.
D. Screening shall be offset at least six feet every 60 linear feet.
E. Parkinta Lot Screening Calculations:
Select one (Berm, hedge, wall or combination)
Hedge calculation is 1 evergreen shrub per 3 linear feet.
linear feet of parking area / 3 feet = evergreen shrubs
8.09.020 Screening of Mechanical Equipment
A. All mechanical equipment (e.g. air handling equipment, compressors, duct work,
transformers and elevator equipment) shall be screened from view at ground level.
B. Roof- mounted mechanical equipment shall be shielded from view on four sides.
Screening shall consist of materials consistent with the primary building materials,
and may include metal screening or louvers which are painted to blend with the
primary building.
C. Screening shall result in the mechanical equipment blending in with the primary
building, and not appearing separate from the building.
D. Wall or ground - mounted equipment screening shall be constructed of:
1. Planting screens; or
2. Brick, stone, reinforced concrete, or other similar masonry materials; or
3. Redwood, cedar, preservative pressure treated wood, or other similar
materials; and
4. All fence posts shall be rust- protected metal, concrete -based masonry or
concrete pillars.
E. All mechanical equipment and screening must be shown on the Landscape Plan.
F. Mechanical Equipment Screening Calculations:
Identify screening selection: berms and walls must show materials and heights.
Planting screening Calculation:
1 evergreen shrub per 3 linear feet, must reach sufficient screening height to screen the equipment
within 2 years.
linear feet of equipment area J 3 feet = evergreen shrubs
8.09.030 Screening of Waste Containers
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l enclosures are to be 1'0" above the height of the waste container. Use protective poles
in corners and at possible impact areas. A minimum 6" reinforced slab is required and
must be sloped to drain; enclosure must be gated with spring loaded hinges, or equivalent.
A. Waste containers shall be located on the side or rear of the building and screened
from public view.
B. Waste containers must be located at least 50 feet away from residentially zoned
property lines.
C. Waste containers shall be located on a minimum six -inch reinforced slab, sloped to
drain.
D. Waste containers shall be screened on four sides, using an enclosure that is a
minimum of 1 foot above the dumpster, and screens the waste container from view
at the property line. Screening shall be comprised of:
1. Brick, stone, reinforced concrete, or other similar masonry materials that
have a similar finish to the primary finish; or
2. Redwood, cedar, preservative pressure treated wood, or other similar
materials; or
3. Planting screening with large evergreen shrubs planted four feet on center
and staggered 30 to 36 inches. Evergreen shrubs shall be watered with an
irrigation system; and
4. All fence posts shall be rust- protected metal, concrete based masonry or
concrete pillars; and
5. Six -inch concrete filled steel pipes shall be located to protect the enclosure
from truck operations.
E. Waste container enclosures shall have steel framed gates with spring- loaded
hinges or the equivalent and fasteners to keep them closed. When in use, tiebacks
should be used to secure the steel framed gates in the open position.
F. Waste container screening shall be maintained by the owner at all times.
G. Waste Container Screening Calculations:
Identify screening selection: fences and walls must show materials and heights
Planting screening Calculation:
1 evergreen shrub per 4 linear feet, must reach sufficient screening height to within 2 years.
linear feet of waste container area / 4 feet = evergreen shrubs
8.09.040 Screening of Loading Docks
A. These standards shall apply to all sites with loading docks in non - industrially
zoned Districts.
B. Loading and service areas shall be located at the side or rear of buildings.
C. Off - street loading areas shall be screened from view of any street or adjacent
property.
D. Loading areas shall be enclosed on three sides by a wall or other screening device
not less than eight feet in height.
E. Loading areas shall not be located closer than 50 feet to any single- family lot,
unless wholly within an enclosed building.
F. Screening materials shall be comprised of:
1. A wall that has a similar finish to the primary structure, or
2. A combination of trees and shrubs that will result in solid screening within
two years as determined by a registered landscape architect, licensed
professional, or as determined by the Director.
Identify screening selection: walls and other screening devices must show materials and heights
Planting screening Calculation:
1 evergreen shrub per 4 linear feet, must reach sufficient screening height to within 2 years.
linear feet of loading area / 4 feet =
Section 8.10 Replacement Trees
shrubs
The Landscape Plan shall show compliance with Section 11.03, Preservation of Natural Features
and Trees. All removal of protected trees or significant stands of trees shall be replaced. In order
to maximize the preservation of existing trees, the surveyed trees that are 4 to 12 inch trees, and
are listed in the City of Georgetown Preferred Plant List or a Class I tree, may provide credit
toward required Primary Landscape requirements or Replacement trees on a 1 tree to 1 tree basis.
8.10.020 Standards
A. Replacement Calculations:
Total caliper inches of trees removed / 50% = Primary replacement unit / 40%
t standard = inches to be
B. Requirements:
1. Replacement trees must be a minimum of 4 inches in caliper.
2. All replacement trees must be of the same species or comparable alternative
and the same size at maturity as the trees removed.
3. All replacement trees must be located on the same lot, adjacent lot or
within the same subdivision.
Section 8.11 Landscape Summary
Landscape Summary Table: The Landscape Summary should provide an overview of all planting
requirements reflecting credits and providing the total of plantings required. Bracket those
requirements that are being credited towards other components.
8.11.010 The Landscape Summary
Note: Bracket those that are credited toward Primary Landscape requirements. Bracketed items may not be
credited to more than one requirement. See Section 8.03.020B. for explanation of crediting.
Section 8.12 Alternative Landscape and Screening Plans
Alternative landscape plan may be submitted for approval to the Director, if the aesthetic,
buffering and environmental intent of these requirements is met, and the reduction of the
landscape area results in the preservation of a natural feature having comparable value to the
reduced landscape requirements. Such plans must be certified by a landscape architect or licensed
professional. Alternative screening plans that reflect innovative approaches to screening may be
approved by the Director.
Section 8.13 Non - Residential Fences
Fences may be constructed in accordance with the following provisions:
A. No fence or wall along a common property boundary shall be greater than 8 feet in
height, except in accordance with UDC Section 5.05:
B. Fences less than or equal to four feet in height shall be allowed in front yards.
C. No fence or other structure more than 30 percent solid or more than four feet high
shall be located within 25 feet of the intersection of any rights -of -way.
D. All fences shall be constructed to indefinitely maintain structural integrity against
natural forces such as wind, rain and temperature variations.
E. The finished side of all fences built to comply with these regulations shall face the
protected use.
Section 8.14 Landscaping Installation
8.14.010General Requirements
All landscaping is required to be installed and maintained in accordance with this Section.
A. Installation
Shrubs
Shrubs
Ornamental
Ornamental
Evergreen
Evergreen
Trees
Trees
Required
Proposed
Grasses
Grasses
Shrubs
Shrubs
Required
Proposed
Required
Proposed
Required
Proposed
Primary
Landscape
Street Trees
Tree Canopy
Parking Lot
Gateway
Bufferyards
Screening
- Parking
- Mech. Equip.
- Dumpster
- Loading
Totals
Note: Bracket those that are credited toward Primary Landscape requirements. Bracketed items may not be
credited to more than one requirement. See Section 8.03.020B. for explanation of crediting.
Section 8.12 Alternative Landscape and Screening Plans
Alternative landscape plan may be submitted for approval to the Director, if the aesthetic,
buffering and environmental intent of these requirements is met, and the reduction of the
landscape area results in the preservation of a natural feature having comparable value to the
reduced landscape requirements. Such plans must be certified by a landscape architect or licensed
professional. Alternative screening plans that reflect innovative approaches to screening may be
approved by the Director.
Section 8.13 Non - Residential Fences
Fences may be constructed in accordance with the following provisions:
A. No fence or wall along a common property boundary shall be greater than 8 feet in
height, except in accordance with UDC Section 5.05:
B. Fences less than or equal to four feet in height shall be allowed in front yards.
C. No fence or other structure more than 30 percent solid or more than four feet high
shall be located within 25 feet of the intersection of any rights -of -way.
D. All fences shall be constructed to indefinitely maintain structural integrity against
natural forces such as wind, rain and temperature variations.
E. The finished side of all fences built to comply with these regulations shall face the
protected use.
Section 8.14 Landscaping Installation
8.14.010General Requirements
All landscaping is required to be installed and maintained in accordance with this Section.
A. Installation
All landscape materials will be installed according to American Association of
Nurserymen (AAN) standards.
B. Planting
1. Any tree with a mature canopy larger than 1,000 square feet must be
planted at least 40 feet from another tree.
2. Any tree with a mature canopy smaller than 1,000 square feet, but greater
than 500 square feet, must be planted at least 20 feet from another tree.
3. Ornamental grasses may not be substituted for more than 10% of the
required landscape shrubs and may not count toward required evergreen
shrubs.
C. Maintenance
The current owner and subsequent owners of the landscaped property, or the
manager or agent of the owner, shall be responsible for the maintenance of all
landscape areas and materials, required Bufferyard areas and materials and
required screening materials. Said areas must be maintained so as to present a
healthy, neat and orderly appearance at all times and shall be kept free of refuse
and debris. Maintenance will include the replacement of all dead plant material if
that material was used to meet the requirements of this Chapter.
All such plants shall be replaced within six months of notification, or by the next
planting season, whichever comes first. A homeowners association may assume
responsibility for maintenance of common areas.
D. Irrigation Standards
1. One of the following irrigation methods shall be used to ensure
survival of the required plant material in landscaped areas:
a. Conventional System: An automatic or manual
underground irrigation system which may be a conventional
spray or bubbler type heads.
b. Drip or Leaky -Pipe System: An automatic or manual
underground irrigation system in conjunction with a water -
saving system such as a drip or a leaky pipe system.
C, Temporary and Above - Ground Watering: Landscape areas
utilizing xeriscape plants and installation techniques,
including areas planted with native grasses, wildflowers,
and trees may use a temporary and above ground system,
and shall be required to provide irrigation for the first three
growing seasons.
2. No irrigation shall be required for undisturbed natural areas or
undisturbed existing trees.
E. Planting Criteria
1. Trees
a. Trees shall be a minimum of two caliper inches measured
four and a half (41/2) feet above finished grade immediately
after planting.
b. Trees must be chosen from the City of Georgetown Preferred
Plant List.
C. No more than 25% of all required trees may be from the
same species.
2. Shrubs, Vines, Ornamental Grasses and Ground Cover
a. Shrubs, vines and ground cover planted pursuant to this
Section shall be good, healthy nursery stock. Shrubs must
be, at a minimum, a one gallon container size.
b. No more than 25% of all required plantings may be from the
same species.
C. Ornamental Grasses may provide no more than 10% of the
required plantings and may not be used for required
evergreen screening.
3. Lawn Grass
Grass areas should be planted in drought resistant species normally
grown as permanent lawns, such as Bermuda, Zoysia, or Buffalo. In
heavily tree shaded properties Saint Augustine or other shade grass
may be used. Grass areas may be sodded, plugged, sprigged or
seeded except that solid sod shall be used in swales or other areas
subject to erosion.
4. Synthetic Lawns or Plants
Synthetic or artificial lawns or plants shall not be used in lieu of
plant requirements in this Section.
5. Architectural Planters
The use of architectural planters may be pennitted in fulfillment of
landscape requirements.
6. Other
Approved decorative aggregate or pervious brick pavers shall
qualify for landscaping credit if contained in planting areas, but no
credit shall be given for concrete or other impervious surfaces.
SECTION 3. All ordinances that are in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance be,
and the same are hereby, repealed and all other ordinances of the City not in conflict with the
provisions of this ordinance shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 4. If any provision of this Ordinance or the UDC, or application thereof, to any
person or circumstance, shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions, or
application thereof, of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared to be severable.
SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its final adoption.
PASSED AND APPROVED on First Reading on the 25th day of April 2006.
PASSED AND APPROVED on Second Reading on the 9th day of May 2006,
ATTEST:
Sandra D. Lee
City Secretary
Approved as to Form:
M
Patricia E. Carls, Brown & Carls, LLP
City Attorney
THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN