§ 9.121.050. Landscape design and plant requirements.

A landscape documentation package prepared by a licensed landscape architect shall include the following landscape design criteria:

(1)

Plant selection and grouping.

a.

Any plant may be used in the landscape, providing the estimated annual applied water use (EAWU) does not exceed the maximum annual applied water allowance (MAWA) and that the plants meet the specifications set forth in Subsections (1)b through d of this section.

b.

Plants having similar water needs shall be grouped together in distinct hydrozones.

c.

Plants shall be selected appropriately based upon their adaptability to the climate, geologic, and topographical conditions of the site. Protection and preservation of existing native species and natural areas is encouraged. The planting of appropriate trees is encouraged.

d.

Minimize the use of turf. Turf shall be used wisely in response to functional needs and shall not be planted if the EAWU exceeds the MAWA. Turf shall not be used on slopes greater than 25 percent, as calculated by rise divided by run, if non-permeable pavements are installed adjacent to the toe of the slope. Where turf is planted, the use of warm season turf is strongly encouraged.

e.

Fire prevention needs shall be addressed in fire-prone areas. Design should be consistent with regulations from the Fire Department and incorporate the defensible space as required by Public Resources Code § 4291(a).

f.

The use of invasive and/or noxious plant species is strongly discouraged. Such plant species should be avoided, especially near parks, buffers, greenbelts, water bodies, and open spaces because of their potential to cause harm in sensitive areas.

(2)

Water features.

a.

Recirculating water systems shall be used for water features.

b.

Where available, recycled water shall be used as the source for decorative water features. Recycled water is not to be used for swimming pools and spas.

c.

Covers for swimming pools and spas are highly recommended.

d.

The surface area of a water feature shall be included in the MAWA and the EAWU calculations. For the purposes of the water use calculation sheet, water features are deemed to have the highest plant category, which is equivalent to an average plant factor of 0.8.

(3)

Mulch.

a.

A minimum two-inch layer of mulch shall be applied on all exposed soil surfaces of planting areas except in turf areas, creeping or rooting groundcovers, or direct seeding applications where mulch is contraindicated.

b.

Stabilizing mulch shall be planted on slopes.

(Ord. No. 313, exh. A(9.06.095.050), 12-15-2009; Ord. No. 315, exh. A, 4-20-2010)