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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20231129 Environmental Board Packet Combined CITY OF LINO LAKES ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING Wednesday, November 29, 2023 6:30 p.m. Council Chambers Please be courteous and turn off all electronic devices during the meeting. AGENDA 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: October 25, 2023 5. OPEN MIKE 6. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. Landscape Ordinance Update 7. ADJOURN Meeting guidelines on reverse side. City of Lino Lakes Environmental Board MEETING GUIDELINES Open Mike—The purpose of a Board Meeting is to accomplish the business of the city. When presenting at a meeting please remember to be respectful and follow these guidelines: • Please address the meeting chair. • State your name and address for the record. • Please observe a 4-minute limit. • The topic must relate to city business. • Open Mike is for items not on the agenda. • A spokesperson must represent a group of five or more—groups will have 8 minutes. • The Presiding Officer may limit duplicative presentations. • Remember,the meeting is to discuss city business only. Public Hearing—Held as a separate item of business on the agenda. The public hearing segment is your opportunity to tell the Board how you feel about issues scheduled to be heard. Typically, a hearing follows these steps: • The Presiding Officer(Chair or Vice-Chair)will announce the proposal to be reviewed and ask for the staff report. The presiding Officer shall maintain strict order and etiquette at all meetings. • Staff will present their report on the proposal. • Board members will then ask City Staff questions about the proposal. • The Presiding Officer will then open up the public hearing for anyone present who wishes to comment on the proposal. This is the time for the public to make comments or ask questions about the proposal. Comments should be limited to four(4)minutes unless further time is granted by the Presiding Officer. All comments should be directed to the Board as a body and not to any individual Board Member or City Staff Member unless permission is granted by the Presiding Officer. No person shall be permitted to enter into any discussion, either directly or through a member of the Board without the permission of the Presiding Officer. • After everyone in the audience wishing to speak has given his/her comments,the Presiding Officer shall close the public hearing. • The Board will then discuss the proposal. No further public comments are allowed. • The Board will then make a recommendation(s)and/or a decision. When you are called upon for your comments, please step to the microphone at the podium and state your name and address for the record. Occasionally, the Board may continue a hearing to another meeting before taking action. Meeting Etiquette The Environmental Board must preserve order and decorum while the meeting is in session. A resident shall not, by conversation or otherwise, delay or interrupt the proceedings or the business of the Board, nor disturb any resident or Board Member while speaking or refuse to obey the orders of the Board. November 29,2023 Environmental Board Page 1 CITY OF LINO LAKES ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING DATE: October 25, 2023 TIME STARTED: 6:30 p.m. TIME ENDED: 7:54 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: John Sullivan, Cassie Cavegn, Shawn Holmes,Julia Nelson Lindsay Buchmeier,Jonathan Parsons MEMBERS ABSENT: Alex Schwartz STAFF PRESENT: Andrew Nelson, Dana Rozan 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Chair Sullivan called the Environmental meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. on October 25, 2023. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved as presented. Chair Sullivan added discussion Item 713, a brief overview of a composting program in Italy. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ms. Buchmeier made a motion to approve the September 27, 2023 meeting minutes. Motion was seconded by Mr. Parsons. Motion carried 6—0. 5. OPEN MIKE Chair Sullivan declared open mike at 6:33 p.m. There was no one present for open mike therefore it was closed at 6:33 p.m. 6. ACTION ITEMS A. Natures Refuge North Concept Plan November 29,2023 Environmental Board Page 2 Mr. Nelson, Environmental Coordinator,presented the staff report. M/I Homes submitted a land use application for a Planned Unit Development, which includes 108 single-family residential lots on the approximately 59.3 acres site. Approximately 30 acres of open space will be provided. Mr. Nelson had seven recommendations for the Board: 1. A new rare plant and animal survey must be completed for the project area. • Ms. Nelson asked who identifies a rare plant or animal. Mr. Nelson explained that the applicant will have to hire a qualified company to perform the surveys. 2. If rare species are found on site, design layout should be revised to avoid impacts to these species. 3. If rare species are found on site and impacts are unavoidable, include features that minimize impacts (ex: buffers around rare plant locations for any that can be preserved, surmountable curbs to facilitate Blanding's turtle movement, restoration of undisturbed project areas). DNR permits may be required for any impacts to rare species. 4. Coordinate with the Rare Plant Rescue group (contact Carrie Taylor at Anoka Conservation District) to allow for transport of any rare plants for which impact is unavoidable to a donor site, such as Wollan's Park Wetland Bank in Lino Lakes. 5. A tree survey and inventory must be completed. • Ms. Holmes asked if there are modifications that could be made to the proposal for better retention of the older trees. Mr. Nelson explained there would be trees in enhancement areas and depending on the area; they have to provide a certain amount of trees proportionally to the amount of trees removed. Mr. Nelson also suggested having more conversation on this when the tree survey is submitted. • Ms. Buchmeier expressed concerns for what would happen if the private lot owners remove mitigation trees. Mr. Nelson replied that mitigation trees would be planted in protected easement areas and outlots rather than on the single-family lots. 6. Preserve as many trees as possible, particularly along the west and north perimeters of the site to provide buffer and screening between project site and existing residential lots. Tree protection zones in accordance with the City Tree Protection Fence Detail must be shown for all trees that are being preserved. These zones must be shown on the Tree Preservation Plan and Grading Plans submitted at the Preliminary Plat phase. 7. Consider restoration of upland and wetland areas as a community benefit. • Chair Sullivan asked what would be examples of restoration work in upland and wetland areas. Mr. Nelson explained that sometimes the developer would receive wetland credit if they do restoration, or sometimes they create wetland on-site. If they were to do restoration work such as invasive species management in upland areas that would provide community benefit. DRAFT MINUTES November 29,2023 Environmental Board Page 3 Chair Sullivan expressed concerns about the pumping of water that was done in the current development in order to build. He would hope that they would not have to pump in the North development as well. Chair Sullivan would like to add a comment to the recommendations as a number 8 for Planning and Zoning Board and City Council to recognize the Board has concerns regarding the number of tree removals, potential rare plant and animal impacts, and wetland impacts on the site. The Board agreed. Motion made by Chair Sullivan along with recommendation 8. Motion seconded by Ms. Holmes. Motion carried 6—0. B. Lyngblomsten Amendment#2 Mr. Nelson, Environmental Coordinator,presented the staff report. Lyngblomsten submitted a request to amend the PUD Preliminary Plan and Final Plan. Lyngblomsten requested the proposed fence along the north lot line not be required. Mr. Nelson had one recommendation for the Board, which was to forward the PUD Amendment to Planning and Zoning Board and City Council with the comment: 1. If additional trees will be planted along the north lot line, Black Hills spruce, balsam fir, and white cedar would be good choices. If white cedar is selected, a means to prevent deer browse is recommended. Mr. Nelson clarified to the Board that the four owners who decided to omit the fence decided so to ensure that wildlife would be able to wander freely. Ms. Holmes expressed concerns that if one homeowner would get the fence and the others would not, and that it would look off. Mr. Fenlon noted that the entire fence would be omitted with the proposed amendment, depending on Council approval. Also, additional trees would be added as a substitute to provide screening in targeted areas to address feedback from residents on both sides of the property line. Ms. Buchmeier asked why the sidewalk near the pickle ball court extends to County Road J. She expressed concerns that it might mistakenly draw the public to this private amenity. Mr. Fenlon responded that the sidewalk was added after a suggestion made by City staff and it serves more as an accessibility route. Motion was made by Ms. Holmes and seconded by Ms. Cavegn. Motion carried 6—0. DRAFT MINUTES November 29,2023 Environmental Board Page 4 7. UPDATES A. Forestry Updates—Ash Removals Mr. Nelson gave the Board an update on the Ash Removals for Winter 2023-2024. Carr's Tree Service will remove 48 EAB infested ash trees along South Reshanau Estates and Birchwood Acres Trails. The City Parks crew will remove 160 EAB infested ash trees along Northpointe Park Trail. As time permits, staff also planned to remove limited boulevard ash trees throughout the City. B. Italy Composting and Recycling Process Chair Sullivan provided the Board with observations about a composting and recycling programs in Italy. General discussion followed about this program and takeaways that could improve how recycling programs are managed in Lino Lakes. 8. ADJOURN Ms. Holmes made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:54 p.m. Motion was seconded by Ms. Buchmeier. Motion carried 6—0. Respectfully submitted, Dana Rozan—Office Specialist DRAFT MINUTES ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD AGENDA ITEM 6A STAFF ORIGINATOR: Andy Nelson MEETING DATE: November 291h, 2023 REQUEST: Discussion only. TOPIC: Landscape Ordinance Amendment BACKGROUND Section 1007.043(17) of the Zoning Ordinance contains the requirements for screening, landscaping, buffer yards, and tree preservation. Collectively, these standards are referred to as the Landscape Ordinance. The stated purpose of this section of the City Code is "to establish landscaping and tree preservation standards to promote high quality site development, compatibility of uses, biodiversity, tree preservation, and to enhance the health, safety, and general welfare of the residents of the community." Staff will be working with the Environmental Board, the Planning and Zoning Board, and the City Council to update this section of the Zoning Ordinance. A redlined draft of the Landscape Ordinance has been provided to facilitate the discussion at tonight's meeting. Proposed changes to the Landscape Ordinance include: • Addition of a definition for Tree Protection Zones. • Changes to Canopy Cover value provided by existing trees. • An increase to numbers of trees needed for size substitutions that reflects benefits provided by the different size classes. • Changes to the Buffer and Screen requirements, including allowing screens of coniferous trees. • Establishment of designated tree mitigation zones to provide more flexibility in the use of mitigation tree fees. • Clarifications to the tree preservation process. Staff is seeking feedback on the proposed changes to the Landscape Ordinance and any additional changes the Board would like to recommend. ENVIRONMENTAL DIRECTION Discussion only. 1 ATTACHMENTS 1. Landscape Ordinance, redlined with proposed updates 2 (17) Screening, Landscaping, Buffer Yards and Tree Preservation. (a) Purpose. To establish landscaping and tree preservation standards to promote high quality site development, compatibility of uses, biodiversity, tree preservation, and to enhance the health, safety and general welfare of the residents of the community. 1. Definitions. For the purpose of the Landscaping, Screening and Tree Preservation Standards, the following definitions shall apply: BASIC USE AREA. The area necessary for construction of the site's allowed use in accordance with the following: a. Commercial, industrial, and institutional uses include the area within the footprints of buildings and vehicular hardscape and within 20 feet around those improvements b. Residential subdivisions include the area within the street right-of-way and that portion of a residential lot between the right-of-way and within 100 feet beyond and parallel to the street right-of-way. c. Surface water management ponds are not part of the basic use area. BIODIVERSITY. The variety, distribution and abundance of living organisms in an ecosystem. DAMAGE. Action or inaction which does not follow good arboriculture practices. Damage may include damage inflicted upon roots by machinery, changing the natural grade above the root system or around the trunk, destruction of the natural shape or any action which causes infection, infestation or decay. DBH. Diameter at breast height, typically measured at 4'.5"-6' above the ground. DETENTIONAREA. Area of a detention pond from the normal water level and up the side slopes to 10' offset from the high water level. DISTURBANCE. Any construction, development, removals, earth movement, clearing or other similar activity. DRIP LINE. Imaginary line on the ground that is extended straight downward from the outermost edge of the canopy. ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREA (ESA). An area that contains native vegetation, natural features and/or natural resources. These include surface water(rivers, lakes, streams and ditches); shoreland and floodplain areas, especially riparian and wildlife corridors; Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^s d'r,{+' wetlands, ; state or federally listed(endangered, threatened or special concern)plant and animal species and their habitat; natural plant communities, including forests, woodlands and prairies,particularly those of high species diversity and other unique and sensitive features. ESA's are categorized as either Natural Resource Conservation Areas orb Natural Resource Enhancement Areas. FOUNDATION LANDSCAPE ZONE. An area located within 15 feet of the building. LARGE SHRUB. Large shrubs have a mature height over six (6) feet. LARGE TREE. Over story deciduous trees with a mature height of at least 40 feet. MEDIUM SHRUB. Medium shrubs have a mature height of three (3)—six (6) feet. MEDIUM TREE. Deciduous trees with a mature height over 18 feet and up to 39 feet. NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATIONAREA. An area within the, Shoreland District of DNR Public Waters (lakes and creeks), 50 feet of a creek or public ditches, and areas within the Rice Creek Watershed District(RCWD) Wetland Management Corridor(WMC). NATURAL RESOURCE ENHANCEMENT AREA. Includes Woodland Preservation Areas; wetland areas non-contiguous to the RCWD WMC extending outward from wetland boundary 75 feet for management class A (Preserve), 50 feet for management class B (Manage 1), 30 feet for management class C (Manage 2) and class D (Manage 3); areas located within the 100-year(1 percent chance) floodplain_; and Woodland Wreser-v Lions Areas. REMOVAL. Actual removal or effective removal through actions resulting in the death of a tree. ROOT PROTECTION ZONE. An imaginary circle surrounding the tree trunk with a radius distance of one (1) foot per one (1) inch of tree DBH (e.g., a 20 inch diameter tree has a Root Protection Zone with a radius of 20 feet), as de&eribedshown in the City Tree Protection Fence standard detail plate. SCREEN. A barrier that hinders sight and, potentially, access. SMALL SHRUB. Small shrubs have a mature height of less than three(3) feet. Small shrubs are interchangeable with perennials, ornamental grasses and groundcovers to fulfill landscape standards. SMALL TREE. Understory deciduous trees with a mature height of 18 feet and under. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisions d'ir,{+' TREE PROTECTION ZONE. An area established through installation of Tree Protection Fence around a tree intended for preservation during construction and development of the surrounding area. The Tree Protection Zone includes the Root Protection Zone and all aboveground parts of the tree,including the trunk and all branches. UNDESIRABLE TREE. Trees that are dead, diseased, structurally weak, invasive or trees that are hazardous to people, infrastructure or buildings. VEHICULAR HARDSCAPE. Areas covered with hard surface intended for motor vehicles, including but not limited to off-street loading spaces, parking lots, driveway, drop-offs, and drive through facilities. WETLAND MANAGEMENT CORRIDOR. A contiguous corridor encompassing high priority wetland resources established by the Rice Creek Watershed District. WOODLAND PRESERVATIONAREA - a remnant woodland ecosystem that is generally mapped in the City's Minnesota Land Cover Classification System, and although it may be degraded it generally meets the criteria for one of the following types of ecosystems as reasonably determined by the city: alder, aspen, black ash swamp, deciduous forest, floodplain forest, lowland forest, maple-basswood, mixed hardwood swamp, northern hardwood, oak forest, paper birch, saturated or seasonally flooded deciduous forest, seasonally flooded deciduous forest, tamarack swamp, upland deciduous forest or woodland and willow swamp. (b) Landscaping Standards. New residential platted subdivisions, mixed use, commercial, institutional and industrial uses shall be subject to the landscaping standards unless specifically excepted. The landscape standards have been divided into five categories: Canopy Cover, Foundation Landscape, Open Areas Landscape, Buffer and Screen, and Boulevard Trees. Projects shall comply with the applicable requirements of all five categories. (c) Canopy Cover Standards. The purpose of this requirement is to mitigate the effects of vehicular hardscape by establishing tree canopy cover to intercept rainfall, protect pavement from sun deterioration, reduce the heat island affect, and improve aesthetics. Canopy cover requirements do not apply to single family residential development, multi-family residential development without surface parking other than individual unit driveways and permitted outdoor storage areas in Industrial Districts. 1. The required minimum canopy coverage for all uses is 40 percent. 2. The following equation shall be used to calculate required canopy coverage: Vehicular Hardscape (Square Feet)x Canopy Cover Percent= Required Minimum Canopy Cover (Square Feet) Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^s d'ir,{+' The total of the assigned canopy coverage values for all the trees in or near the vehicular hardscape must be equal or greater than the required minimum. Pervious pavements are considered 50 percent hardscape. 3. The assigned canopy coverage value of each tree is based on planting location, tree size and anticipated tree canopy size 15 years after planting. The assigned canopy cover value to each deciduous tree is described in the following table and illustrations: Table 1 Assigned Canopy Cover Value Interior Within less 7'-12' from 12-20' from parking than 7' of vehicular vehicular Planting Location lot islands vehicular hardscape hardscape (for new trees) hardscape edge edge edge Assigned Canopy 100 50 percent 25 percent of 12.5 percent Coverage Value percent of of the the canopy of the the canopy square canopy canopy square footage square square footage footage footage Square 950 SF (or N/A feet(SF) 1200 SF of canopy Large in islands 600 SF 300 SF coverage Tree of 3 or assigned more to each trees) deciduous Medium 500 SF 250 SF 125 SF N/A tree Tree Treel 250 SF 125 SF N/A N/A Existing *238 SF Tree: 1900 SF *950 SF *475 SF 6- 12" — NA DBH Existing *356 SF 12+e' 2850 SF N/'^F N/AAA DBH *Canopy cover value for existing trees will be given only if Tree Protection Zone is maintained throughout construction and approved by the City Forester. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revoisi^^r ,,.-,f+' Large trees in an island containing 3 more trees are given additional Canopy Value. See Canopy Coverage Table. Trees surrounded t 1 0%Canopy. y. 3 sides are valued at 100%Canopy. Trees with access to planting soil outside of the island are required to meet soil volume requirements for a shared bed. Trees in interior islands are valued at 100%Canopy 4. Existing trees may be used to fulfill canopy coverage, as described in City Code Section 1007.043(17)(i),when the drip line extends over has . the edge of the hardscape and tree trunks are 20 feet or less from hardscape; therefore, existing trees do not need to be within less than seven(7) feet of the vehicular hardscape edge.... See Table 1. (d) Foundation Landscape Standards. The purpose of these standards is to soften and enhance building architecture, define access points, add color and seasonal interest, and to blend buildings in with the natural environment. Foundation Landscaping Standards do not apply to single family residential development. 1. The Foundation Landscape Planting Standards are described in the following table: Table 2 Foundation Landscape Standards Per 100 linear feet(LF) of Building* Location Trees and Shrubs Front and 2 large 6 large Public/Private Street 2. Rounded to the nearest tenth, with a minimum factor of one. 3. Round all calculations to the nearest whole number of plants. 4. The required plant materials shall be planted in the foundation landscape zone adjacent to the building face where the requirement applies. The City may allow flexible planting locations where service areas or other constraints make the standards difficult to meet. Landscape Revisions draft no comments) ndsGa^^ Revisi^^r H—pa4f+I 5. Existing trees may be used to fulfill the Foundation Landscape Standards as described in City Code Section 1007.043(17)(i). 6. Smaller landscape materials may be substituted at the following rates: 1 Large Tree=24-.-S Medium or 32 Small Trees 1 Large Shrub = 1.5 Medium or 3 Small Shrubs 7. One (1) large tree may be substituted for every two (2) large shrubs in lieu of the shrub requirement at the discretion of the city. 8. The design of landscaping for ground areas under the building roof overhang must take into account the potential effects of runoff from the roof edge. 9. Trees planted within 30' of the building shall be considered within the foundation landscape zone (e) Open Areas Landscape Standards: The purpose of these standards is to provide general site beautification and high aesthetic quality with a mix of plant materials in open areas. Open areas include disturbed site areas, that are not located within the foundation landscape zone, vehicular hardscape area or the building footprint and include cul-de-sac islands, boulevard medians, storm water management areas, and common areas in multifamily sites that are not for recreation facilities. Open Area Landscaping Standards do not apply to single family residential lots. Open areas landscaping shall meet the following standards. 1. The open areas planting standards are described in the following table: Table 3 Open Areas Landscape Standards Trees and Shrubs Per 2500 SF* 1 large 2 large *Rounded to the nearest tenth, with a minimum factor of one. 2. Round all calculations to the nearest whole number of plants. 3. Only land above the normal water level shall be included in the open area calculation for storm water detention areas. Planting shall be located above the normal water level in detention areas. The City may require specific tree species in locations where water levels vary. 4. Existing trees may be used to fulfill Open Areas Landscape Standards as described in City Code Section 1007.043(17)(i). Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^rs d'ir,{+' 5. Smaller landscape materials may be substituted at the following rates: 1 Large Tree= 24-.5 Medium or 32 Small Trees 1 Large Shrub = 1.5 Medium or 3 Small Shrubs 6. One (1) large tree may be substituted for every two (2) large shrubs in lieu of the shrub requirement at the discretion of the city. 7. Areas that are included in a project-specific natural resource management plan that addresses vegetation are not subject to the Open Areas Landscaping Standards. (f) Buffer and Screen Standards: The purpose of this requirement is to separate and buffer different land use types, screen roads and parking, and screen utility and loading areas. The location of buffers and screens are listed below, while the width of the buffer yard can be found in the respective zoning districts. Buffers and screens shall meet the following standards: 1. Required screen location, height, and materials are described in the following table: Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisi^^rs d'ir,{+' Table 4 Landscape Buffer and Screen Location, Height and Materials Required Required Screen-Materials Location SeFeen Height Between a parking lot and • Planting screen in compliance with public right of way or 30 inches paragraph(f)2. sidewalk where parking Or projects toward the public . A combination of berm and screen in right-of-way or sidewalk compliance with paragraph(f)2. Between-'^side„+;^' „ • Planting screen in compliance with and after-iaor-eelleetor- (f)2. street Or Between any • Wall or fence and plantings shall deve opm^„use in the 6 feet provide shrub cover for 50 percent of NB, LB, and GB zoning the wall or fence on the exterior side Districts Or and adjacent, less intense, • A combination of berm and screen in residential land uses compliance with paragraph(f)2. (this includes across a street from residential), but not on the side of a use considered to be the front(as determined by the Zoning Administrator) Between loading/service area and public view Buffer as specified in 30 inches • 2 large trees and 4 large shrubs per applicable zoning district for shrubs 2,500 SF of defined buffer area. and 6 feet Trees shall be a combination of for trees deciduous and coniferous plantings. Outdoor Storage Yards • A wall or fence of permanent materials and planting shall provide shrub cover for 50 percent of the wall or fence on the exterior side. At its 10 feet discretion, the City Council may approve a modification or waiver from these standards where the affected lot line adjoins another industrial property. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisi^^s d'r,{+' 2. All planting screens shall require at a minimum a double row of plants with triangulated spacing(See illustration). Planting plans shall include species which are sized to appropriately screen visibility within five (5) years of planting. Small shrubs shall be a planted at a maximum interval of Yon center; medium shrubs shall be planted at a maximum interval of 4' on center; and large shrubs shall be planted at a maximum interval of 6' on center unless; otherwise authorized by the City. 3. A wall or fence intended to provide a continuous year round screen shall block visibility completely. 4. In addition to the shrub cover required in the table above, all screens shall be planted with large trees every 50 LF, medium trees every 35 LF, small trees every 25 LF, or some combination thereof, along the length of the screen. 5. Existing vegetative screens should be left in place unless composed of invasive species or otherwise directed by the City. Existing screens may be enhanced with new plantings to comply with the requirements. 6. Berms shall be irrigated, have maximum side slopes of 3:1, and have no less than four(4) inches of topsoil. 7. Permanent walls and fences shall 75'm Z'm'n°ffset be offset by a minimum of 2' at intervals of 75' maximum length for stability and visual relief J_ (See illustration). 17 8. Approved permanent wall/fence materials shall include wood, metal, masonry, concrete stone, or other prefabricated and/or sustainable materials. Non-decorative concrete block is prohibited for screening walls. Rock face block or other decorative material is required for masonry walls. Chain link fences with slats are prohibited for screening walls. 9. Maintenance of the required buffer strip planting and/or fence shall be the responsibility of the individual property owners or, if applicable, the homeowners association. (g) Boulevard Tree Standards: 1. Boulevard trees shall be required in all new residential subdivisions. 2. Boulevard trees are required at the rate of one (1)tree per lot frontage for single family and two family lots. Townhome and multi-family Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^s d'ir,{+' properties shall provide boulevard trees at a rate of 1 tree per 70 linear feet of street frontage where property fronts any public street. 3. Boulevard trees shall be planted within 14 feet of the curb line or as otherwise determined by the City Forester. 4. Existing trees may be used to fulfill boulevard tree standards at the City's discretion. 5. The City may, at its discretion,purchase and install the required boulevard trees. In such case, the City shall collect a standard fee per tree. Said fee shall be established by the City Council and based on the estimated market rate cost to purchase and install trees within the development site. (h) Sod and Ground Cover. All areas not otherwise improved in compliance with the approved site plans shall have a minimum depth of four(4) inches of topsoil and a vegetative cover of be-, sodded boulevard areas. Exceptions to these criteria may be approved by the Zoning Administrator as follows: 1. Seed may be provided in lieu of sod in any of the following cases: a. Where the seed is applied to future expansion areas as shown on the approved plans, or b. Where the seed is applied adjacent to natural areas or wetlands. Seed mixture shall be approved by the City, or c. For single-family and two family residential properties, proper erosion control measures shall be implemented and maintained until vegetation is established. Sod may be required in areas subject to erosion as determined by the Building Official or City Engineer. 2. Undisturbed areas containing existing viable natural vegetation which can be maintained free of foreign and noxious plant materials. 3. Areas designated as open space or future expansion areas properly planted and maintained with native grasses or wild flowers indigenous to Minnesota. Seed mixture shall be approved by the City. 4. Use of mulch materials such as bark, wood chips, and decorative rock in support of shrubs and foundation plantings. 5. Native Landscapes in compliance with Minnesota Statute 412.925. (i) General Landscaping Standards: Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisii^^s d'ir,{+' 1. All lot areas not used for off-street parking, off-street loading, sidewalks, driveways, building sites, or other requirements shall be landscaped with grass, shrubs, trees or other acceptable vegetation, or treatment as required by this chapter prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Exceptions to this requirement are listed in City Code Section 1007.043(17)(o). 2. Commercial, industrial, public/semi-public, institutional, and multi-family residential uses shall be required to submit a site landscape plan, in compliance with City Code Section 1007.020, Site and Building Plan Review, for approval by the City prior to issuance of a building permit. 3. Desirable existing trees may be used to fulfill Canopy Cover, Foundation Landscape, and Open Areas Landscape Standards if applicable by placement. Desirable existing trees are valued according to the following table: Table 5 Existing Tree Value deciduous deciduous deciduous trees trees under trees between 6" DBH or 6"-12" DBH over 12" DBH Tree Size or evergreen evergreen or evergreen trees over 20' trees under trees between tall. 12' tall 12'-20' tall Tree 1 large tree 2 large trees 3 large trees Value 4. Plantings may be grouped if part of an approved landscape plan. 5. Standards may be met with different sizes of trees and shrubs. 6. New trees may fulfill Canopy Coverage, Foundation Landscape, Landscape Screen, and Open Space Standards simultaneously if applicable by location. 7. An existing tree is considered to be removed if the tree trunk is damaged or if more than 30 per-ee + of the root protection zone area is disturbed during the construction process. 8. The City may allow flexibility in landscape standards if there are conflicts with solar power,wind power, water harvesting, food production, or other innovative measures proposed for the site. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisions d'ir,{+' 9. The landscape plan shall be compared to all applicable CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) standards and reviewed by the police department. 10. Trees and shrubs shall not be planted in the right of way without City authorization and shall not be planted in easements without authorization from the holder of the easement. 11. Turf slopes in excess of three to one (3:1) are prohibited. 12. Commercial, industrial, multi-family, public/semi-public, and institutional uses shall install irrigation systems to ensure survivability of landscape materials. 0) Tree Preservation and Mitigation Standards. The purpose of these standards is to protect valuable trees and stands of vegetation, while not interfering with landowners' reasonable use and development of property. The goal is to minimize unnecessary loss of habitat, biodiversity and forest resources, and to replace removed trees in areas where tree cover is most critical. Unless specifically excepted, tree preservation and mitigation standards apply to all plats, site plans, conditional use permits, interim use permits, grading,building, and other activity that requires a City permit or approval. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^s d'ir,f-I 1. Tree preservation and mitigation standards are described in the following table: Table 6 Tree Preservation and Mitigation Standards Tree Tree Location: not within Location: Basic Use Area within Basic Use Area Environmentally deciduous deciduous deciduous Sensitive Area trees 6" DBH trees 6-12" trees over (ESA) Category and over or DBH or 12" DBH or evergreen evergreen evergreen trees between trees trees over 12'-20' tall between 20' tall 12'-20' tall Non-ESA provide no mitigation one tree provide required per tree two trees per tree removed removed Natural Resource provide provide provide Enhancement one tree per two trees three trees Geasen,miar Area three€ew trees per tree per tree removed removed removed Natural Resource provide one provide provide Conservation three trees DrrTviccced Area tree per two two trees per per tree trees removed tree removed p removed 2. Trees used for mitigation may also fulfill the Open Areas Landscape Standards at the discretion of the City. 3. Trees with construction impacts within the Tree Protection Zone39 per-cent of the Teets dafflaged are considered to be removed and must be mitigated for at the applicable rates. 4. Undesirable trees are not subject to the Tree Preservation and Mitigation Standards. 5. Areas where trees are being removed for ecological restoration in accordance with a City approved restoration plan are not subject to the Tree Preservation and Mitigation. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsr=,i3^ Rev Gs*ens draft' ReyosO RS draft-DA- „ne-rt4 13 6. On existing lots with existing buildings where no building or development activity that requires a permit or approval from the City is occurring, the removal of trees is not subject to tree preservation and mitigation standards. 7. Replacement trees shall be planted on site. 8. The applicant may request to pay a fee per tree in lieu of some or all of the trees required for mitigation. At the City's discretion, the City may accept the fee for planting trees within designated tree mitigation zones as described in the Landscaping Guidelines and Technical Specificationsd leeatea no t� e goner-a! area of the deve ,.p,. en4 p eet. Specific planting locations will be determined by the City Forester. The City shall maintain a standard fee per tree based on the estimated market rate cost to purchase and install trees. (k) Landscaping Guidelines and Technical Specifications. The selection, installation, and maintenance of all planting materials shall be in compliance with the City's Landscaping Guidelines and Technical Specifications Manual. (1) Tree Survey. 1. A tree survey is required for all property that contains a significant tree. 2. The tree survey shall be the basis for the tree preservation plan, tree mitigation standards, and the use of existing trees to fulfill landscape standards. 3. The tree survey shall provide the following information: a. In the basic use area and other areas where tree removal is proposed, for all significant trees: i. tree species ii. size DBH (Diameter- iii. location iv. root protection zone (only for trees that will be preserved) v. tree condition b. The location of the combined root protection zones of all tree stands designated for preservation on the development property. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisions d'r,{+' Reyes;,.^ 14 c. Significant trees oAn adjacent properties, the with the dripline touching or extending onto within 4ve (" roe+0 the development property. 4. For a new plat or new Planned Unit Development, the tree survey shall be one plan sheet and the tree preservation plan shall be a separate plan sheet. 5. For a building permit for a new structure on an existing lot, the tree survey and preservation information may be included on the lot survey typically required for a building permit instead of on a separate document. For a building permit for an addition to an existing structure, the tree survey information may be provided in an informal medium that sufficiently conveys the information. 6. At the City's discretion, the tree survey requirement may be waived under the following circumstances: a. significant trees will not be removed and are not likely to be impacted by construction. b. significant trees will only be removed within the basic use area and the basic use area is not an ESA. (in)Tree Preservation Plan: 1. A tree preservation plan shall be required for all soil disturbance activities where Tree Preservation and Mitigation Standards apply. A tree preservation plan shows how the Tree Preservation and Mitigation Standards will be met and how preserved trees will be protected during construction and other potentially harmful activities. 2. The tree preservation plan shall be based on the tree survey. 3. If a tree survey shows that no significant trees are on the development property or adjacent properties are near the construction area,the City may waive the tree preservation plan requirement. 4. A tree preservation plan shall identify: a. The basic use area and environmentally sensitive areas. b. The disturbance area. c. Tree size (DBH), species, condition, location, and root protection zone for all significant trees to be preserved, or; Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Reviri^^s d. The combined root protection zone of all stands of trees designated for preservation,whichever is applicable. e. Location and type of tree protection fence. f. Staging areas. g. Temporary construction access routes when temporary site access is necessary within root protection zone of any tree or tree stand designated for preservation. i. Temporary access shall be routed in a manner that is least disruptive to the tree or tree stand per the approval of the City Forester. ii. Temporary access roads shall not exceed 25 feet in width and shall be delineated by snow fencing or safety fencing. iii. An eight(8) inch deep cover of wood chip mulch shall be placed over the temporary access route to cushion the root protection zones from compaction. h. Concrete washout areas. i. Existing and proposed grading. j. The plan shall show directional felling and trenching to separate root systems prior to bulldozing trees or stumps if necessary to avoid damage to adjacent trees. k. The plan shall be coordinated with utility planning so that utilities are installed in a manner that protects trees intended to be saved. 5. Trees to be preserved shall be tagged in the field and keyed to the tree preservation plan. The City may inspect the trees to verify compliance with the preservation plan at any time during construction. 6. If a natural resource management plan has been approved for the site, the tree preservation plan shall be in compliance with said plan. 7. The following shall occur prior to soil disturbance: a. The tree preservation plan shall be approved by the City. b. Fencing and all tree protection measures shall be installed and inspected by the City. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisions d'r4f-1 ,^^'�^,^^ c. Erosion control measures shall be installed and inspected by the City. d. All required financial securities have been submitted. e. Any required development agreement has been approved. (n) Tree Preservation during Construction: Trees that are to be preserved must be protected by the following methods unless otherwise approved by the City. 1. Before land clearing, grading, or construction begins, the City approved tree protection fencing or other method shall be installed and maintained around the Root Protection Zone of the trees to be protected. Fencing shall be a minimum of four(4) feet high and of a highly visible material, such as snow fence or polyethylene laminar safety netting, and must be standing throughout the construction process. Cut roots with clean,pruning cuts at the fence line prior to fence installation to avoid later tearing of the roots. Signage shall be installed to instruct workers to stay out of the Root Protection Zone. 2. Areas where development must encroach upon the Treer00 !!protection Zzone must be identified on the tree preservation plan in which case the fencing shall be installed at that edge. 3. No actions that may harm the health of the tree',including but not limited to pruning, construction , traffic^era ding„compaction„ storage of equipment or materials-including soil, ' , or concrete washout areas; may occur in the TreeReet Protection Zone without the written consent of the City Forester. 4. Trees damaged by construction, or with any construction impacts within the Tree Protection Zonemor^than 30„ ent ofthe roots dirt ,-be , shall be counted as removed and mitigated at applicable rates. 5Tree protection measures shall remain in place until all grading and construction activity is terminated. Removal of Tree Protection Fence and Root Protection Zones must be approved by the City Forester prior to fence removal work commencing. (o) Final Inspection: Prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy, the project developer, builder, or representative shall certify in writing to the City that all elements of the tree preservation plan and landscaping plan were completed. These must be confirmed by the City. However, the City may issue a certificate of occupancy prior to completion of landscaping in the following situations: Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisions d'r,{+' 1. If winter weather will prevent healthy planting practices, a security shall be posted to ensure the remaining planting is accomplished and all planting must be installed by the 151h of June the following spring. 2. A certificate of occupancy may be issued by the City on residential lots prior to lawn seeding or sod,provided an escrow security is submitted sufficient to ensure that the work will be completed and the date of completion is specified. (p) Non-Compliance: If the City finds that the property is not in compliance with the approved landscaping plan or tree preservation plan, it shall inform the property owner or, if applicable, the homeowners association, regarding the non- compliance and describe, in writing, the steps needed to bring the property into compliance within a reasonable timeframe, not to exceed 60 calendar days. (q) Performance Security: The City may require performance security to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter. 1. The performance security shall extend for two (2) years from the date of planting. The form of the security(cash, letter of credit, or other form) shall be determined by the City. 2. If after notification of non-compliance the property owner or, if applicable, the homeowners association, fails to achieve the compliance within 60 calendar days, the City may exercise its authority to use the performance security to address compliance. Landscape Revisions draft no comments'andsG,^^ Revisii^^s d'ir,{+' Reyes* ^ 18