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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-23-2005 Agenda Packet Workshop w/Council• 1 City of Cape Canaveral PLANNING & ZONING BOARD WORKSHOP MEETING WITH THE CITY COUNCIL CITY HALL ANNEX 111 POLK AVENUE FEBRUARY 23, 2005 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER: ROLL CALL: DISCUSSION: 1. City Code Review - Chapter 102 - Landclearing. ADJOURNMENT: Pursuant to Section 286.1015, F.S., the City hereby advises the public that: If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Planning and Zoning Board with respect to any matter rendered at this meeting, that person will need a record of the proceedings, and for such purpose that person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. This notice does not constitute consent by the City for the introduction or admission into evidence of otherwise inadmissible or irrelevant evidence, nor does it authorize challenges or appeals not otherwise allowed by law. This meeting may include the attendance of one or more members of the Cape Canaveral City Council, Board of Adjustment, Code Enforcement and/or Community Appearance Board who may or may not participate in Board discussions held at this public meeting. Persons with disabilities needing assistance to participate in any of these proceedings should contact the City Clerk's office at 868-1221, 48 hours in advance of the meeting. 105 Polk Avenue • Post Office Box 326 • Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-0326 Telephone: (321) 868-1222 • SUNCOM: 982-1222 • FAX: (321) 868-1247 www.myflorida.com/cape • email: ccapccanaveral@c9.recom Incomplete Draft: 2/15/2005 ORDINANCE NO. _-2005 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 102 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, VEGETATION; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF PRIOR INCONSISTENT ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS; INCORPORATION INTO THE CODE; SEVERABILITY; AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the City is granted the authority, under Section 2(b), Article VIII, of the State Constitution, to exercise any power for municipal purposes, except when expressly prohibited by law; and WHEREAS, the Florida Constitution, Article II, Section 7, provides "it shall be the policy of the State to conserve and protect natural resources and scenic beauty;" and WHEREAS, the City Council is committed to preserving, enhancing, and creating green area within the City and by assuring the preservation of existing trees on public and private property and taking steps to require maintenance of existing and installation of new trees within the City; and WHEREAS, trees aid in energy conservation by cooling the atmosphere, reduce air pollution by removing particles such as dust and pollen, increase oxygen production, slow surface water run off, reduce soil erosion, provide food, nesting and protection for wildlife, enhance scenic beauty, and provide other environmental benefits; and WHEREAS, in furtherance of the public purpose stated herein the City Council adopted a moratorium on land clearing permits pursuant to Ordinance No. and assigned to the planning and zoning board the task of evaluating the City's current land clearing and tree protection ordinance for purposes of improving the City Code to afford more protection for existing trees and requiring more enhanced landscape plans for future developments within the City of Cape Canaveral; and WHEREAS, after careful review of the City's existing land clearing and tree protection regulations, the planning and zoning board has recommended that the City Council adopt this ordinance in order to improve the manner in which the City preserves, protects, and creates a viable tree canopy within the City and to promote a more aesthetically and environmentally pleasing community; and WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Cape Canaveral, Florida, concurs with the planning and zoning board's recommendation and hereby finds this Ordinance to be in the best interests of the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Cape Canaveral. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 1 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Cape Canaveral, Brevard County, Florida, as follows: Section 1. Recitals. The foregoing recitals are hereby fully incorporated herein by this reference as legislative findings and the intent and purpose of the City Council of the City of Cape Canaveral. Section 2. Code Amendment. Chapter 102 ofthe Code of Ordinances, CityofCape Canaveral, Florida, is hereby amended as follows (underlined type indicates additions and strikcout type indicates deletions, while asterisks (* * *) indicate a deletion from this Ordinance of text existing in Chapter 102. It is intended that the text in Chapter 102 denoted by the asterisks and set forth in this Ordinance shall remain unchanged from the language existing prior to adoption of this Ordinance): Chapter 102 VEGETATION *** Article II. TREE PROTECTION * * * Division 2. Land Clearing Sec. 102-36. Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Active development order means an action by the city approving a site development plan, final development plan or subdivision plat or the issuance of a building permit or the approval of a conditional use permit for a borrow pit, commercial borrow pit or manmade lake. After -the -fact permit means a permit issued after a violation has occurred for the primary purpose of correcting the violation or for bringing the violator into compliance with this division. Agricultural purpose means the bona fide commercial or domestic, agricultural use of a site, parcel or lot which has been classified as green belt, pursuant to F.S. ch. 194, or the use of a site, parcel or lot for forestry, groves, pasture, nurseries, field crops, commercial sod production or combinations of such activities or any other agricultural pursuits within the applicable land use classifications or property located within the productive agriculture land use classification (PA). Barricade means protection for vegetation to be preserved which is erected at the dripline City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 2 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 and clearly visible to heavy equipment operators. Diameter at breast height (dbh) means the diameter of a trunk of a tree or the sum of the stems of a multi -stemmed tree, measured four and one-half feet above natural or finish grade. Dripline means an imaginary vertical plumb line that extends downward from the tips of the outermost tree branches and intersects the ground. Land clearing means the disturbance or removal of vegetation from any site, using backhoes, bulldozers, root rakes, or similar mechanical means which may kill or damage roots, ot branches, or trunks ; provided, however, it does not include routine mowing, sod replacement, planting of landscape material, shrub pruning, and shrub removal , and tree trimming or pruning, which does not result in grade changes. Mangrove means any specimen of the species Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove) or Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove). Native vegetation means plant material indigenous to the city, including all those species listed in but not limited to those in section 102-44. Natural cover means trees, brush, roots and other byproducts of land clearing activity. Person includes any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, joint venture association, principal, trustee, government, or any agent or representative thereof. Recognized knowledgeable person means a person recognized by the city as being knowledgeable in the identification and evaluation of vegetative resources, such as a forester, biologist, ecologist, horticulturalist, landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, certified nurseryman or person having similar recognizable skills and experience. Specimen Tree means a tree, other than an undeseriable tree, structurally unsound tree that can not recover from pruning, dead tree, or diseased tree, that has a caliper of twenty-four (24) inches or more in diameter. Specimen trees shall not include [INSERT ANY TREES NOT SUITABLE FOR CAPE CANAVERAL THAT SHOT D NOT BE AFFORDED SPECIAL PROTECTION] Tree means a woody or fibrous perennial plant with one or more upright limbs with a minimum dbh of three inches, or a sum of dbh of three inches for multistemmed trees and an average mature height of at least ten feet. Tree removal includes any act which physically removes the tree or its root system from the earth or causes a tree to die within a period of two (2) years from the time of the act including, but not limited to, by cutting, girdling, relocating, interfering with the water supply, applying chemicals, regrading around the base of the tree trunk. cut LJZIIri�RTll—�I'9 �fi4�1 r 1 1 al_ _ __ _ City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 3 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 Understory means an underlying layer of low native vegetation usually associated with trees. Undesirable species means any of the species identified in section 102-45. Vegetation means any plant material, including but not limited to trees, shrubs, vines, herbs and grasses. Vegetative communities means a natural association of vegetative plants, including but not limited to both trees and understory. Viable means having the capacity to live and develop. c. t uz-s /. cavil penaltics. square tcct cicarcd. nnnai penalties. Sec. 102-37. Applicability; Intent and purpose. (a) Applicability. This Division shall be applicable to all land lying in the incorporated area of the City of Cape Canaveral. (b) Intent. The intent of this Division is to encourage the protection of the maximum number of viable trees. It is further the intent of this Division to encourage the protection of trees native to Central Florida and to encourage proper removal of exotic, pest trees. To this end, it shall be unlawful to cut down, damage,_poison, or in any other manner destroy or cause to be destroyed any tree or other vegetation as covered by the provisions of this Division except in accordance with the provisions set forth herein. Notwithstanding, in the case of emergencies involving, natural disaster such as, but not limited to, flood, freeze or other natural disasters, the requirements of this Division may be temporarily waived by the City Council by resolution. (c) Purpose. The purpose of this Division is to establish regulations for trees within the City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 4 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 City in order to maintain and protect the City forest, to better control problems of flooding, soil conservation, air pollution and noise, and to make the City a healthier, more attractive and safer place in which to live. Sec. 102-38. Enforcement and Penalties. (a) Enforcement. The City may enforce the provisions of this Division by any lawful means including, but not limited to, issuing a civil citation, bringing charges before the City's Code Enforcement Board or special master, and seeking injunctive and equitable relief. For purposes of determining the penalties provided under this Division, the removal or death of a tree in violations of this Division shall be deemed irreparable or irreversible. Further, each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. It shall also be a separate violation of this Division for each tree removed without a permit. (b) Penalites. In addition to all other remedies set forth in this Division, one or more of the following civil fines shall apply to violations of this Division: (1) Failure to obtain a permit required by Section 102-39: Fine of $250.00 per tree or $500.00 per specimen tree removed, not to exceed $5,000.00, plus $250.00 per 100 square feet cleared. (2) Removal of a tree without a permit: Fine of $100.00 per diameter inch, not to exceed $5,000.00 per tree. (3) Removal of a specimen tree without a permit: Fine of $150.00 per diameter inch, not to exceed $5,000.00 per tree. 14) Failure to abide by a cease and desist order issued under this Division: Fine of $250.00 for the first day and $500.00 per day for each day thereafter. (5) Failure to abide by the requirements of other provisions of this Division: Fine of $250.00 for the first occurrence and $500.00 for repeat occurrences. (c) Cease and Desist Orders. The building official shall have the right to issue cease and desist orders upon persons in violation of this Division for a maximum of five (5) working days. Upon review of the violation by the City Manager, the City Manager may extend the cease and desist work order until the violation is brought in compliance and all resulting fines incurred as a result of the violation have been paid. The City Manager's decision may be appealed to the City Council pursuant to Section (INSERT]. Sec. 102-39. Permits. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 5 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 a Permit Re. uired. No . erson shall en a • e in tree removal or en a • e in land clearin within the City without obtaining a land clearing permit required by this Division and issued by the building official. If a property owner has retained a contractor to perform the tree removal or land clearin the contractor shall be res onsible for obtainin the ermit re uired by this Division prior to the tree removal or land clearing. (a b) Application Required. An a lication for tree removal and land clearing shall be filed on an official form rovided b the buildin official. The a licant shall be re uired to a a fee as may be established by the resolution of the city council, except that no fee shall be required for the removal oftrees that are dead, diseased, suffer from severe structural defects, pose a clear and obvious safety hazard to structures or people or removed for a public project sponsored and paid for by the City. If the applicant is not the property owner, then the applicant shall attach the written permission of the property owner to the application. All completed applications shall be returned to the building official, along with the appropriate fee and the following minimum information: Legal description of the property, including street address. Name, address and phone number of property owner. Name, address and phone number of applicant, if other than property owner. Date upon which land clearing is to commence. Valid reasons for the removal of trees. (5 b) A tree inventory, for the portion of the site to be developed, consisting o scaled drawing of a scale of one (1) inch equals fifty (+id) feet or less or for developed single family residential land, a sketch approximately one 0) inch equals'fifty (50) feet or less indicating: IA) Property boundaries. fB) The location of all individual trees including the tree's common or scientific name, and the diameter of each tree. (C) An indication of all trees proposed for removal and proposed to be retained. (D) The location of existing and proposed improvements, if any. including buildings, structures, impervious surfaces (e.g. pool decks, drives, parking areas). stormwater City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 6 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 retention and detention areas utilities and other such im rovements. Pro osed im rovements shall be de icted as an overla on existingtrees so as to clear) indicate which trees must be removed in order to accommodate the construction of the improvements. U. on reuest b the a..licant the buildin . official or a.. roriate review board ma ermit an a licant to omit certain ortions of the tree invento where com liance with the re uirements set forth herein would be unnecessaril burdensome and the exem ted ortions are not needed for the cit to evaluate the a lication. 7 A replacement .lan in accordance with Section indicatin . the means for com ensatin for the trees to be removed includin the s ecies and size of an replacement trees. 8 If ade chan . es are . roosed on the site a adin • plan drawn to scale shall be rovided. In addition a written statement shall be rovided b a landsca a architect or other com etent rofessional indicatin the robabili of whether the ade chan e will result in the death of trees intended to be reserved. Said statement shall immediate) be brow ht to the attention of the buildin official at the time the application is filed and prominently attached to the front of the application 9 A p rotection plan describin • how . reserved trees shall be . reserved on the site and ad'acent ro erties durin construction tree removal and adin c Time or A..lication. A..lications for land clearin . permits shall be made . rior to tree removal or land clearin except that if the tree removal or land clearin is art of a ro osed develo mentproject that re uires siteplan or subdivision a royal the a lication shall be submitted at the time the site lan or subdivision a lication is submitted so that due consideration ma be 'ven to the rotection of trees duringthe site lan or subdivision rocess. Each a lication for tree removal shall be sub'ect to review under the site lan and subdivision process. d A..roved Site Plans Permits and Develo.mentAareements. All . ermits issued b the building official under this Division shall be required to be consistent, and not in conflict, with any plans, permits, or development agreements approved by the city council or other appropriate board. All permits or portions thereof issued by the building official in conflict with any such approval shall be deemed null and void and the approval of the city council or appropriate board shall remain in full force and effect. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 7 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 apvlicabir (ce) Survey permit. A survey permit is -required maybe issued by the building official for the limited purpose of allowing land clearing and tree removal for surveys and soil or engineering testing according to the following: (1) Prior -to any Tree removal and land clearing for surveying shall be subject to the land clearin and tree removal re uirements of this Division. The land clearin area for surveying shall not be greater than five feet in width or testing shall not be greater than eight feet in width with a reasonable turnaround fo soil and engineering testing; tThe owner of the property proposed to be cleared or his authorized agent shall submit an a survey permit application fui-the p clearing activity to the building official, on such form as provided by the city. The survey permit shall expire after 30 days from the date of issuance. The building official may grant an administrative waiver for an additional 30 days for hardship, including adverse weather, size ofproperty and inability to obtain permits from other agencies. (2) When a written survey permit has been issued, the applicant shall post the survey permit on the affected property in such a manner as to be visible from an abutting road right-of-way. The survey permit shall remain posted on the affected property during all applicable land clearing activity. It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the survey permit form in a clearly visible manner at all times. (f) Permit Contents. The land clearing or survey permit, when issued, shall specifically identify which land areas may be cleared and which trees shall be permitted to be removed. The permit merely authorizes the removal of the trees specified therein. Nothing in this Division shall be construed to require the removal of such trees by the permittee. (d g) Duration of Land clearing permit . A land clearing permit shall clearing 1SSUa12c ano ng pclnlrt shall be required p11v1 to 1a11�1 t,lt,a111 City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 8 of 30 ail ouc acl�, Cglu�I .•9Ct cuLa Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 undesirable-species (2) A land clearing permit shall expire 90 days from the date of issuance for single-family projects and 180 days for subdivisions, multi -family, commercial and industrial projects. Two extensions of 30 days each may be authorized by the building official, provided appropriate justification warrants, such as unusual weather, seasonal situations or inability to obtain permits from other agencies. Trees not removed during the life of the permit may not be removed without the issuance of a new permit based upon a new application. (g) Posting of Land Clearing Permit. (3) When a written land clearing permit has been issued, the applicant shall post the land clearing permit on the affected property in such a manner as to be visible from an abutting road right-of-way. The land clearing permit shall remain posted on the affected property during all applicable land clearing activity and until final inspection by the City. It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the land clearing permit in a clearly visible manner at all times. y ---�.� avv KL1V11 l s ructures, onsrtc disposal systems, dnvcways acid water bodies shown. quit cct. b City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 9 of 30 b emu' indurtrial. The aWrrel-or Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 Sec. 102-40. Permit exemptions. Sec. 102-40. Permit Criteria; Exemptions; Standards of Review. Permitted Criteria. U on receipt of a completed application and verification b the Building Official, the Building Official may issue a Land Clearing Permit under any one of the following conditions: (1) Building and Construction sites as shown on City approved plans, regardless of whether trees are removed rovided trees and landscaping is installed on the Property in accordance with Section of this Division. j2) The trunk of the tree is located closer than five feet to the foundation of an existing or ro osed structure and it is not feasible to relocate the structure. (3) The trunk of the tree is located closer than ten feet from the foundation of an existing or proposed structure and the tree is considered having an aggressive root system or the natural mature height is greater than 30 feet and is not feasible to relocate the structure. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 10 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 4) Trees severely diseased severely injured or dead. 5 Trees that interfere with the construction or repair ofpublic utilities infrastructure and facilities. (6) Undesirable Trees, per 7 Trees that have been a..roved b the Buildin• Official and which shall be replaced elsewhere on the property. 8 Buildin • and construction re • ardless of whether trees are removed on existin owner occupied single family lots of onle acre or less in size, provided any removed trees are re laced elsewhere on the Pro a in accordance with Section this Division. of Permit Exce tions. The followin tree removal activities are exem t from the ermit requirements of this Division: (1) Trees removed by the City or other governmental agency and which interfere with the safety of the motoring public or disrupt public utilities such as power lines, drainage systems and other public utilities. 12) All trees and plants, within a licensed tree nursery, planted for harvest provided said trees and plants are planted and growing on the premises of the licensee and are for sale or intended for sale in their ordinary course of business. 13) The emergency removal of a dead or seriously damaged tree, to mitigate an imminent threat to the health, safety, and welfare of the property owner or the general public. 14) Land clearing and tree removal activities authorized and preempted by state or federal law. (5) Trees planted specifically for silvicultural purposes provided the property owner can provide documentation to the City evidencing that: (i) the property is requested as a silvicultural site with the Division of Forestry: harvestable size and type exist on the property and (ii) trees of typical capable of being harvested for income and that the property has, or intends to, aregenerate income from the harvested trees. .() Permitted Standards of Review. When making decisions under this Division. the City shall be guided by the following standard of review guidelines: City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 11 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 1 Necessi to remove Trees which • ose a clear and obvious safet hazard to edestrian or vehicular traffic or threaten to cause disru tion to ublic services or a si ificant obstacle to accessin and utilizin ublic easements and ri hts-of-wa . 2 Necessi to remove Trees which • ose a clear and obvious safet hazard to buildin s and other im rovements on a lot or arcel of land. Ordin small cracks or u lifts in avement sidewalks and non-occu ied structures that are icall caused b settlin and small roots shall not be considered a safe hazard. 3 Necessi to remove diseased Trees or Trees weakened b a • e storm fire or other in' or Trees with severe structural defects that ose a clear and obvious safe hazard to eo le buildin s or other im rovements on lot or arcel of land. 4 The extent to which Tree Removal is likel to result in dama • e to the • ro • ert of other owners ublic or rivate includin dama a to lakes onds streams or rivers through runoff or erosion. 5 An • ro • osed landsca • in • includin • • lans whereb the a • • licant has • lanted or will plant Trees to replace those that are ro osed to be cleared. 6 To • o • a • h of the land and the effect of Tree Removal on erosion soil retention and the diversion or increased flow of surface water. 7 Good fores • ractices such as the number of health Trees that a • iven • arcel of land will reasonabl su ort and the roven techni ues that sustain health trees. 8 Necessi to remove Trees in order to construct a • . roved and • ermitted im rovements to allow economic en'o ent of the ro ert includin a Need for access around the • ro • osed structure for construction e • ui • ment (maximum of ten (10 feet) b Need for access to the building site for construction equip (c) Essential grade changes d Need for locating street or road rights-of-wa utilities draina • e wa s as well as the need to rovide reasonable use and roe access. 9 The extent of an dama • e or demonstrated hardshi • which would result to the applicant from a denial of the requested permit. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 12 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 (10) The species and size of the Trees proposed for removal. (11) The following factors shall also be considered: fa) Trees forming the current canopy. Lb) Preservation of the next generation of Trees. Sec. 102-41. Specimen Trees. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Division, Specimen Trees shall not be removed except for extraordinary circumstances and hardships and only by final permit approved by the City Council. ation tea- b rstory. crrt< na. 1otcts. spccitic zoning of the property. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 13 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 c. icfc tllc tftlil!C of a pa,t1,ct1/4.,d tree r lot•a 1,d closcI tlIan fiVk fiA, lcrc t this-secticm- u tllcsc sy or a protcc ocatcd closcl tlrcur-tail fcet fi 0111 lfcct acccss to t ocatpt.vLnts-t n co11Jt1 tn,lrOfiltifity proj ..ct has primary-frontage- no-nativc v ing op City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 14 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 xrs C,orthc tree rcinovcd li tiito the -city pcctions. Jitc dcv,; le soil level is at lcast ten fcct. of replacLincnt. The fcc wit,lJ,i�� land cicaring permit, including but not limitcd to trcir barricadcs, havc bccn takcn to to issuancc of a ccrtificatc cf uccupailcy of c\I tircatc of cu lipl-ctitni, a site itIbpuctiCrn rccs al a vcgctahon has u,,cuir- nsu IC tt vcg,tatron w,,rc rcplac,,d. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No, -2005 Page 15 of 30 Incomplete Draft: 2/11/2005 Sec. 102-42. Special Waiver Provision. In furtherance of tree protection and preservation and the related public purposes stated in Section 102-37 of this Division, any person or entity may request a limited waiver from any provision of the City's land development or zoning code upon submitting a written application provided by the City. The City Council may grant the waiver under the following conditions: a. The waiver may be granted during the site plan review process. Such waiver shall be at the City Council's sole discretion on a case -by case basis. b. The waiver must directly result in the preservation of a hardwood tree (e.g. oak) and/or the implementation of an extraordinary landscape plan that goes well -beyond the minimum requirements of the City Code including, but not limited to, planting additional and larger plant materials and trees, planting premium A -grade plants and trees, incorporating decorative hardscape features into the landscape design (e.g. fountains, decorative fences and walls, trellesis, lighting, etc.), and planting premium A -grade plant materials and trees on public property. c. The waiver is compatible with the surrounding area and the minimum waiver required to serve the public purpose stated herein. d. No waiver shall be granted which changes the list of permitted, conditional, special exception, or prohibited uses or height restrictions set forth in any zoning district category. e. The waiver must be consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan. f. The waiver is not adverse to the public health, safety and welfare. g. Any waiver granted under this section shall automatically expire and be declared null and void if the underlying development order for the project expires. Sec. 102-43. City of Cape Canaveral Ordinance No. -2005 Page 16 of 31 Section 102-36. Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Active development order means an action by the city approving a site development plan, final development plan or subdivision plat or the issuance of a building permit or the approval of a conditional use permit for a borrow pit, commercial borrow pit or manmade lake. after -the -fact permit means a permit issued after a violation has occurred for the primary purpose of correcting the violation or for bringing the violator into compliance with this division. agricultural purpose means the bona fide commercial or domestic, agricultural use of a site, parcel or lot which has been classified as green belt, pursuant to F.S. ch. 194, or the use of a site, parcel or lot for forestry, groves, pasture, nurseries, field crops, commercial sod production or combinations of such activities or any other agricultural pursuits within the applicable land use classifications or property located within the productive agriculture land use classification (PA). barricade means protection for vegetation to be preserved which is erected at the dripline and clearly visible to heavy equipment operators. diameter at breast height (dbh) means the diameter of a trunk of a tree or the sum of the stems of a multi -stemmed tree, measured four and one-half feet above natural or finish grade. dripline means an imaginary vertical plumb line that extends downward from the tips of the outermost tree branches and intersects the ground. Land clearing means the removal of vegetation from any site, parcel or lot; provided, however, it does not include mowing, trimming or pruning, so as to maintain vegetation in a healthy, viable condition. mangrove means any specimen of the species Avicennia germinans (black mangrove), Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove) or Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove). Native vegetation means plant material indigenous to the city, including all those species listed in but not limited to those in section 102-44. natural cover means trees, brush, roots and other byproducts of land clearing activity. Recognized knowledgeable person means a person recognized by the city as being knowledgeable in the identification and evaluation of vegetative resources, such as a forester, biologist, ecologist, horticulturalist, landscape architect, licensed landscape contractor, certified nurseryman or person having similar recognizable skills and experience. tree means a woody or fibrous perennial plant with one or more upright limbs with a minimum dbh of three inches, or a sum of dbh of three inches for multistemmed trees and an average mature height of at least ten feet. tree removal includes any act which physically removes the tree or its root system from the http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-36.htm 01/19/2005 earth or causes a tree to die or changes the natural grade above or below the root system or around the trunk without special protective measures. Understory means an underlying layer of low native vegetation usually associated with trees. undesirable species means any of the species identified in section 102-45. vegetation means any plant material, including but not limited to trees, shrubs, vines, herbs and grasses. vegetative communities means a natural association of vegetative plants, including but not limited to both trees and understory. Viable means having the capacity to live and develop. Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-36.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-37. Civil penalties. Penalties for violations of this division shall be as specified in F.S. ch. 162 or those listed in this section. No after -the -fact permits shall be issued by the city to correct violations of this division. Fines for illegal land clearing shall be $250.00 per 100 square feet cleared. This includes failure to erect proper barricades. If protected trees are illegally removed from the site, the fine shall be up to $250.00 per inch of diameter at breast height per tree, in addition to the penalty of $250.00 per 100 square feet cleared. :Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-37.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-38. Criminal penalties. In addition to the penalties in section 102-37, each violation of this division shall, upon conviction, be punished as provided in section 1-15. Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-38.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-39. Permits. (a) Notice. Unless specifically exempted in this division, it shall be unlawful for any person to engage in land clearing of any site, parcel or lot within the incorporated area of the city, without a permit and prior written notification to the building official, pursuant to the following conditions, and supplying the city the following information, at a minimum, on a form to be provided by the city: (1) Legal description of the property, including street address. (2) Name, address and phone number of property owner. (3) Name, address and phone number of applicant, if other than property owner. (4) Date upon which land clearing is to commence. (5) A dimensioned sketch plan showing the location of all existing and proposed structures, driveways, onsite sewage disposal facilities, water bodies, existing trees and vegetative communities identified by species and size or other information as required by the city. (b) development order. If a permit is required, no land clearing shall take place and no survey or land clearing permit shall be issued prior to the issuance of an applicable development order for the property. (c) Survey permit. A survey permit is required for clearing. for surveys and soil or engineering testing according to the following: (1) Prior to any land clearing for surveying greater than five feet in width or soil or engineering testing greater than eight feet in width with a reasonable turnaround, the owner of the property proposed to be cleared or his authorized agent shall submit an application for the proposed land clearing activity to the building official, on such form as provided by the city. The survey permit shall expire after 30 days from the date of issuance. The building official may grant an administrative waiver for an additional 30 days for hardship, including adverse weather, size of property and inability to obtain permits from other agencies. (2) When a written survey permit has been issued, the applicant shall post the survey permit on the affected property in such a manner as to be visible from an abutting road right-of-way. The survey permit shall remain posted on the affected property during all applicable land clearing activity. It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the survey permit form in a clearly visible manner at all times. (3) Prior to any land clearing, all trees to be protected shall be marked at the dripline by the erection of barriers clearly visible to heavy equipment operators. http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-39.htm 01/19/2005 (d) Land clearing permit. A land clearing permit shall be required for clearing where an active development order is being sought according to the following: (1) The issuance of a land clearing permit shall be required prior to land clearing after the applicant has obtained an approved site plan, subdivision approval or building permit, whichever is applicable, according to the following: a. If one or more trees three inches dbh or greater, excluding undesirable species, are to be removed from the property. b. If 50 percent or greater or more than one acre, whichever area is less, of the existing vegetation is to be removed from the property, excluding undesirable species. (2) A land clearing permit shall expire 90 days from the date of issuance for single-family projects and 180 days for subdivisions, multi -family, commercial and industrial projects. Two extensions of 30 days each may be authorized by the building official, provided appropriate justification warrants, such as unusual weather, seasonal situations or inability to obtain permits from other agencies. (3) When a written land clearing permit has been issued, the applicant shall post the land clearing permit on the affected property in such a manner as to be visible from an abutting road right-of-way. The land clearing permit shall remain posted on the affected property during all applicable land clearing activity. It is the responsibility of the applicant to maintain the land clearing permit in a clearly visible manner at all times. (4) Prior to the issuance of a development order, the applicant shall provide a tree and vegetative communities survey to the building official as follows: a. Single-family residential. The property owner of a single- family lot shall provide a tree and vegetative communities survey, which may be hand drawn, on a plot plan of the property, with approximate location of all structures, onsite disposal systems, driveways and water bodies shown. The plot plan shall depict the location, species and dbh of all trees to be counted toward the landscape point requirement. For those sites of five acres or greater in size, a recent aerial photograph, including but not limited to county REDI book photographs or county tax appraiser's blue line maps, may be required. b. subdivisions, multifamily, commercial and industrial. The owner or applicant of a subdivision or multifamily, commercial or industrial project shall provide a survey of trees and vegetative communities as identified by aerial maps or soil survey maps and a soil map, at a minimum. For http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-39.htm 01/19/2005 those sites of five acres or greater in size, a recent aerial photograph shall be provided. Horne --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-39.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-40. Permit exemptions. Under this division, no survey permit or land clearing permit shall be required in the following situations: (1) The emergency removal of a dead or seriously damaged tree, which adversely affects the health, safety and welfare of the property owner or the general public. (2) If the proposed land clearing activity is regulated by a state or federal agency, which regulations may supersede those of the city. (3) If the removal of vegetation has been ordered by the city pursuant to other sections of this code and the removal conflicts with the requirements or intent of this division, the city manager, or his designee, shall negotiate a resolution of the conflict. (4) Land clearing activities on single-family residential lots of one acre or Tess in size, one year after the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the single-family residence built upon such single-family residential lot. (5) The harvesting of trees for a bona fide commercial use, when done in accordance with silviculture best management practices. (6) A site, parcel or lot that is defined as having an agricultural or silvicultural purpose under this division and the proposed land clearing is to be made in conjunction with those agricultural purposes or activities and an active development order is not being sought. Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-40.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-41. Protection of trees and vegetative buffers. (a) Development size thresholds. (1) All single-family, multi -family, subdivision or nonresidential develojment, regardless of the size of the lot or parcel of land being developed, shall be subject to this division. (2) All trees preserved on -site shall receive landscape credit as provided for by section 110-566 et seq. pertaining to landscaping. (b) Preservation thresholds. (1) Protected trees. Any tree, with the exception of the undesirable species listed in section 102-45, having a diameter (dbh) of three inches or greater shall be protected. (2) Vegetative buffer areas. Where a vegetative buffer is required by section 110-566 et seq. pertaining to landscaping, any natural vegetation within the required buffer area pursuant to section 102-44, with the exception of the undesirable species listed in section 102-45, shall be preserved. This shall include preservation of the understory. (c) Removal criteria. (1) A protected tree, as specified in subsection (b) of this section, may only be approved for removal if one or more of the following criteria are met: a. Where site design modifications, as determined by a preclearing inspection, are not feasible to allow the use permitted, as determined by the specific zoning of the property. b. Where the trunk of a protected tree is located closer than five feet to the foundation of the proposed structure, and it is not feasible to relocate the structure. c. Where the trunk of a protected tree is located closer than ten feet from the foundation of the proposed structure and the tree is considered having an aggressive root system or the natural mature height is greater than 30 feet and it is not feasible to relocate the structure. d. Where the location of the tree prevents the direct access to the property from a publicly dedicated and maintained roadway or where the tree constitutes a hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic which cannot be mitigated without removing the tree. Removal of the tree pursuant to this criterion shall be exempt from the replacement criteria in http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-41.htm 01/19/2005 subsection (d) of this section. e. Where the location of the tree prevents the construction of utility lines, drainage facilities, roadways or required parking areas which cannot be practically relocated or rerouted or where the trees cannot be utilized as part of these systems. f. Where the tree is weakened by age, storm, fire or other injury so as to pose a danger to persons, property, site improvements or other trees. Removal of a protected tree pursuant to this criterion shall be exempt from the replacement criteria in subsection (d) of this section. g. The tree reduces the visibility of a nonresidential development more than 50 percent of the lineal footage of the lot along the roadway to which the project has primary frontage. (2) There shall be no clearing, except hand clearing, within the dripline of any protected tree or other trees selected to be preserved for landscaping credit. Where no native vegetation exists within the dripline, pervious paving, bricking or any other material which does not restrict the health and growth of a protected or preserved tree may be utilized. (3) The natural grade may not be altered within the projected dripline of the tree, except in accordance with the state division of forestry tree protection manual, pages 14--18, or comparable accepted protective measures. (d) Replacement criteria. Where the removal of a protected tree meets any one or more of the criteria identified in subsection (c) of this section, the developer may choose one of the following options: (1) The developer shall provide one or more native trees to replace the removed tree where the total dbh of the replacements is equal to 100 percent of the total dbh of the tree removed, provided that the height above soil level is at least ten feet. Replacement trees shall have a minimum of a dbh of three inches. (2) The developer may relocate or transplant the protected tree elsewhere on the same lot or parcel of land or public land or private land within the city. (3) On a heavily wooded lot, the developer may pay a fee set forth in appendix B to this code for the tree removed in lieu of replacement. The fee will be deposited into the city's environmental trust fund for the acquisition of environmentally sensitive lands and revegetation of public lands. (4) No replacement is necessary if the removal is done pursuant to the http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-41.htm 01/19/2005 criteria in subsection (c)(1)c., d., or f. of this section. (e) Inspections. (1) Predeveloprnent inspection. Prior to any clearing activity or preparation of a site development_.. plan or subdivision plat, the area to be cleared, as shown on the required ve_getation location survey, shall be staked and the property will be inspected to ensure the tree survey is accurate and the measures described in the application for land clearing permit, including but not limited to tree barricades, have been taken to protect all trees and vegetation. (2) Inspection prior to certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion, a site inspection will be conducted to ensure that no unauthorized clearing. has taken place and to ensure that all protected trees and vegetation identified for preservation are in place and have been maintained in a viable condition. (3) Followup inspection. A final site inspection may be conducted one year after the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for single-family, multiple -family and nonresidential developments to ensure that no unauthorized removal of protected trees and vegetation has occurred. (4) Reinspection. If trees and vegetation were not in place or not in a viable condition at the followup inspection, a reinspection may be conducted within 90 days to ensure that the trees and vegetation were replaced. (f) Relocation of trees. Where trees are proposed to be relocated for preservation purposes, a land clearing permit shall be required. Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-41.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-42. Open burning of natural cover. Open burning of natural cover which is the result of land clearing is prohibited. Home --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-42.htm 01/19/2005 Section 102-43. Revegetation. If land clearing activities take place which are not consistent with this division, seeding and mulching of the area shall be required and shall be completed within 30 days of the date of notification of violation k the building official. Ilorne --- Contents --- Index http://myflorida.com/cape/CapeCode/102-43.htm 01/19/2005 Sec. 102-44. List of recommended landscaping plants. (a) The list of trees and plants in this section is intended to provide a guide to the developer and homeowner in selecting appropriate vegetation for proposed landscaping plans. Native vegetation is considered ideal for landscaping since these plants have become adapted to the county's particular set of climatic conditions. If natives are utilized in parallel environments to those ecosystems and in the form and size context in which they naturally occur, a long-lived and maintenance -free landscape scheme will result. The list also contains recommended species which are not native to the county but can be utilized with many of the same benefits as native plants. (b) The key to codes used in the list is as follows: (1) Community. (N) North Brevard County. (C) Central Brevard County. (S) South Brevard County. (B) Barrier Island. (2) Form and size. (ST) small tree. Average mature height of at least ten feet and Tess than 20 feet. (MT) medium tree. Average mature height of at least 20 feet and no greater than 60 feet. (LT) large tree. Average mature height over 60 feet. (P) Palm tree. (S) Shrub. (G) Ground cover. (V) Vine. (A) Aquatic. (3) Temperature. (+) Cold tolerant. (-) Cold intolerant. Although these species occur in the county, they are at the northern limit of their range and are suggested only for southern and eastern Brevard County in protected areas. NATIVE SPECIES TABLE INSET: Botanical Name Common Name Community Cold Tolerance (ST) Small Tree http://library2.murucode.com/gateway.dll/fl2/florida2/4743/4926/4928?f templates$fn=d... 01/19/2005 Acacia farnesiana Acacia tree N, C, S + Ardisia escallonioides Marlberry C, S - Bumelia tenax Tough buckthorn N, C, S, B + Capparis cyanophallophora Jamaica caper B - Capparis flexuosa Limber caper B - Chrysobalanus icaco Coco plum S, B - Citharexylum fructicosum Fiddlewood S, B - Coccoluba uvitera Sea grape S, B - Conocarpus erecta Buttonwood S, B - Cornus foemina Swamp dogwood N, C, S + Dodonea viscosa Varnish leaf B - Drypetes laterifolia Guiana plum B - Eugenia axillaris White stopper C, S, B - Eugenia foetida Spanish stopper B - Exothea paniculata Inkwood B - Forestiera segregata Florida privet N, C, S, B + Guapira discolor Blolly S, B - Hamelia patens Firebrush S, B - Krugiodendron ferreum Black ironwood S, B - Laguncularia racemosa White mangrove S, B - Myrclanthes fragrens Simpson stopper N, C, S, B + Myrica cerefera Wax myrtle N, C, S, B + Myrsine floridana Myrsine C, S, B - Nectandra coriacea Lancewood C, S, B - http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dll/fl2/florida2/4743/4926/4928?f=templates$fn=d... 01/19/2005 Quercus chapmanii Chapman oak N, C, S, B + Quercus geminata Sand live oak N, C, S, B + Quercus incana Blue jack oak N, C, S + Quercus minima Dwarf live oak N, C, S, B + Rhus copallina Southern sumac N, C, S, B + (MT) Medium Tree Avicennia germinans Black mangrove N, C, S, B + Bursera simaruba Gumbo limbo S, B - Carpinus caroliniana Hornban/bluebeech N, C + Carya floridana Scrub hickory N, C, S, B + Carya glabra Pignut hickory N, C, S, B + Celtis laevigata Sugarberry N, C, S + Chrysophyllum oliveforme Satinleaf S, B - Coccoloba diversifolia Pigeon plum S, B - Diospyros virginiana Persimmon N, C, S, B + Ficus aurea Strangler fig C, S, B - Fraxinus caroliniana Water ash/pop ash N, C, S + Gordonia lasianthsus Loblolly bay N, C, S + Ilex cassine Dahoon N, C, S, B + Ilex vomitoria Youpon holly N, C, S + Juniperus silicicola Southern red cedar N, C, S + Magnolia virginiana Sweet bay N, C, S + Mastichodendron foetidissimum Mastic tree B - Morus rubra Red mulberry N, C, S + http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dll/fl2/florida2/4743/4926/4928?ftemplates$fn=d... 01/19/2005 Osmanthus americanus Wild olive N, C, S + Persea borbonia Red bay N, C, S, B + Pinus clausa Sand pine N, C, S + Prunus caroliniana C. cherry laurel N, C, S, B + Quercus laevis Turkey oak N, C, S + Rhizophora mangle Red mangrove C, S, B - Ulmus americana American elm N, C, S + Zanthoxylum clavaherculis Hercules club N, C, S, B + (LT) Large Tree Acer rubrum Southern red maple N, C, S + Liquidambar styraciflua Sweetgum N, C, S + Magnolia grandiflora Southern magnolia N, C, S, B + Nyssa sylvatica Swamp black gum N, C, S + Pinus ellottii Slash pine N, C, S, B + Pinus palustris Longleaf pine N, C, S + Quercus laurifolia Laurel oak N, C, S + Quercus virginiana Live oak N, C, S + Taxidium distichum Bald cypress N, C, S + (P) Palm Tree Paurotis wrighti Saw palmetto N, C, S + Saba! palmetto Cabbage palm N, C, S, B + (S) Shrub Bacharis halimifolia Groundsel tree N, C, S, B + Befaria racemosa Tar flower N, C, S + http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dll/fl2/florida2/4743/4926/4928?f templates$fn=d... 01/19/2005 Callicarpa americana Beauty berry N, C, S + Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush N, C, S + Croton punctatus Beach croton B - Erythrina herbaceae Coral bean N, C, S, B + Iva frutescens Marsh elder S - Iva imbricata Marsh elder B - Lantana involucrata Wild sage B - Lycium carolinianum Christmas berry N, C, S, B + Lyonia ferruginea Staggerbush N, C, S, B + Lyonia fruticosa Staggerbush N, C, S, B + Lyonia lucida Fetterbush N, C, S, B + Psychotria nervosa Wild coffee C, S, B - Psychotria sulzneri Wild coffee C, S, B - Quercus myrtifolia Myrtle oak N, C, S, B + Quercus pumila Running oak N, C, S, B + Randia aculeata Randia C, S - Rhapidophyllum Hystrix Needle palm N, C, S, B + Sophora tomentosa Necklace pod S, B - Vaccinium spp. Blueberry N, C, S, B + Yucca aloifolia Spanish bayonet N, C, S, B + Zanthoxylum fagara Wild lime S + (G) Ground Cover Acrostichum danaeafolium Leather fern N, C, S, B + Aristida spp. Wiregrass N, C, S, B + http://library2.municode.com/gateway.d11/fl2/florida2/4743/4926/4928?templates$fn=d... 01/19/2005 ARTICLE 1X. SUPPLEMENTARY DISTRICT REGULATIONS* Page 30 of 34 shall be provided along all property lines abutting public rights -of -way or properties zoned residential. Said greenbelt shall be in conformance with the requirements of § 110-566 et seq. of the City Code, as may be amended from time to time. Where a wall or fence is to be used as screening, as may be provided within this Code, the greenbelt will be located between the property line and the wall or fence such that greenbelt is adjacent to the bordering property; (5) Outside areas where the motor vehicles are to be displayed or stored shall be paved and striped in accordance with the city's off-street parking regulations; (6) All ingress and egress points to abutting streets shall be marked clearly and placed not closer than 150 feet apart on the same street and shall not be placed so as to endanger pedestrian traffic; (7) Servicing or repair of vehicles is prohibited except within a fully enclosed structure; (8) All outdoor paging or speaker systems are expressly prohibited; and (9) The hours of operation for such facility shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. (Ord. No. 02-2003, § 3, 3-4-03) Secs. 110-557--110-565. Reserved. DIVISION 7. LANDSCAPING AND VEGETATION* *Cross references: Environment, ch. 34; requirements for landscape appearance and maintenance, § 34-99. Sec. 110-566. Landscaping and screening between commercial or industrial zoning districts and residential zoning districts. (a) Whenever the boundaries of a commercial or industrial zoning district and a residential zoning district abut, a visual screen shall be provided within the required setbacks of the property which is developing or redeveloping . (b) Such visual screen shall: (1) Be provided along the entire length of the boundary separating the commercial or industrial zoning district from the residential zoning district. (2) Consist of decorative or ornamental fencing or shrubs designed and placed in a manner rendering such visual screen density of at least 80 percent within a period of two years after such screen is provided. (3) Be not less than four or more than eight feet in height, except as provided in section 110-470. (4) Have a minimum of one ten -point tree value as defined in section 110-567 which shall be planted every 35 feet with at least two five -point trees on the minimum 50-foot C-1 lot and three five -point trees on the minimum 75-foot M-1 http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dlUfl/florida/33130/33321 /33330?f=templates$fn=... 02/02/2005 AR1'1ULE IX. SUPPLEMEN'1'AKY ll15'1'KIU'1' KEGULA'1'1ONS* Page 31 of 34 lot. (5) Be serviced by a functional underground sprinkler system adequate to maintain such landscaping. (6) Be properly maintained and replaced if for any reason it does not survive. (7) Be protected from vehicular encroachment. (c) All areas not paved or with other landscaping, as designated in this section or in section 110-567, shall be planted with grass, hardy shrubs, evergreen or other ground cover materials, as specified in section 102-44, having the cold -tolerance designation (+). Otherwise, the owner or developer must provide documentation from a recognized knowledgeable person, as defined in section 102-36, that his choice of vegetation has a good chance of thriving or meets state requirements for low water need (xeriscape). (d) Where a fence or wall is used to fulfill the screening requirements within a vegetative buffer, it shall be located one foot inside of the property line of the property which is developing or redeveloping. When a drainage easement, ditch or water body runs along a property line, an administrative waiver may be granted by the building official to allow the masonry wall or fence to be placed along the edge of the ditch or water body, instead of on the property line. Where existing trees exist within the buffer area, the fence or wall shall be located so as to preserve the trees. (Code 1981, § 641.43; Ord. No. 1-92, § 1, 1-21-92; Ord. No. 03-2003, § 2, 8-19-03) Sec. 110-567. Interior landscaping for offstreet parking areas. (a) Offstreet parking areas in C-1, C-2, M-1 and R-3 districts shall have internal and perimeter landscaping as follows: (1) Parking areas with ten or fewer spaces shall have at least one ten -point tree for every five spaces or fraction thereof planted within the interior of the parking lot. (2) Parking areas with 11 or more spaces shall have at least one five -point tree for every five spaces or fraction thereof interspersed throughout the parking area. In addition, one ten -point tree shall be placed at the end of each row where internal curbing would be placed, even though internal curbing may not be required. However, trees must be protected from vehicular encroachment. (3) Subsections (a)(1) and (2) of this section may be satisfied by cluster plantings, at the discretion of the building official. (4) Parking areas in the C-1, C-2 and M-1 districts and parking areas in the R- 3 districts that contain 16 or more parking spaces shall be planted to a width of at least two feet of the entire perimeter facing the public right-of-way, except for ingress and egress and sidewalks. The perimeter shall be planted with decorative shrubs and bushes not less than three feet in height to form a visual screen with a density of at least 80 percent within two years of planting. Perimeters facing such public right-of-way shall, in addition, have five tree value points planted every 35 feet with at least ten tree values on a minimum 50-foot C-1 lot, and 15 tree values on the minimum 75-foot C-2 or R-3 lot unless a greater restriction is otherwise provided for in this chapter. (5) No trees shall be planted that will obstruct visibility at intersections or points of ingress and egress to streets. See section 110-469. The perimeter footage defined in section 110-469 and ingress and egress shall not be used to calculate landscaping of perimeters. http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dlllfl/florida/33130/33321 /33 33 0?f=templates$fn=... 02/02/2005 ARTICLE IX. SUPPLEMENTARY DISTRICT REGULATIONS* Page 32 of 34 (6) Existing trees in proposed internal parking areas as listed under subsection (b) of this section shall not be removed if over three inches diameter at breast height (dbh) without a permit from the building official. Every effort shall be made to build, pave or otherwise construct around existing trees of value. (7) Each landscaped area, both within the interior parking area and around the perimeter, shall be served by a functioning underground sprinkler system adequate to maintain all landscaping. (8) All landscaping specified in this subsection shall be properly maintained and replaced if for any reason it does not survive. (9) The value of the landscaping for the internal parking areas and their perimeter, as well as all additional external landscaping for other areas on the site, will not be less than one percent of the total cost of the project, including land acquisition, or three percent of the project, excluding land acquisition, whichever is greater. (b) Tree value points referred to in subsection (a) of this section shall be grade Florida Fancy or Florida #1 and will have the following values: TABLE INSET: Florida Fancy Florida # 1 Points Tree Points 10 Large and medium species, ten feet tall with greater than three-inch diameter (dbh) and two -foot spread. 7 5 Small species, six feet tall with two to three inch diameter (dbh) minimum and two -foot spread. 4 5 Cabbage palms, minimum height six feet (overall). 4 5 Non-native palms, minimum height three feet (overall). 4 (c) Only trees listed in section 102-44 having the cold tolerance designation (+) shall be considered for use in meeting landscaping requirements for C-1, M-1 and R-3 zones. Further, if the planting is in an area subjected to salt air, the B (barrier island) designation shall be present, which meets the state requirement to tolerate xeric conditions. Otherwise, documentation must be presented as provided in section 110-566 (d). (Code 1981, § 641.44; Ord. No. 1-92, § 2, 1-21-92; Ord. No. 28-94, § 1, 7-19-94; Ord. No. 14- 98, § 1, 9-15-98; Ord. No. 03-2003, § 2, 8-19-03) Sec. 110-568. Preservation of trees in all districts. During the development of any project, all trees of four inches in diameter or larger shall be preserved or replaced unless they exist within: (1) A proposed public or private easement. (2) A proposed structure dimension. (3) A proposed driveway or designated parking area in the R-1 or R-2 districts. See sections 110-566 and 110-567. http://library2.municode.com/gateway.dlllfl/florida/33130/33321 /3333 0? f=templates$ fn=... 02/02/2005 AK1IULE IX. SUPPLEMEN 1'AKY UIS'1'KIC'l' K-EUULA'1'IONS* Page 33 of 34 (4) Ten feet of a proposed structure. (Code 1981, § 641.59) Cross references: Preservation of trees, § 102-26 et seq. Secs. 110-569--110-580. Reserved. DIVISION 8. SWIMMING POOLS* *Cross references: Swimming pool code, § 82-246 et seq. Sec. 110-581. Construction and location. (a) Swimming pools shall be installed to city requirements, and a city permit shall be required and approved by the building department prior to construction or installation (placement). (b) Swimming pools may be built within the principal structure if it is determined through analysis by a certified engineer that such construction shall not be harmful to the principal structure. At the discretion of the building official, engineering may be required when the vertical wall of the pool (water's edge) is located within five feet of the foundation system supporting the principal structure. Engineering may also be required on all premanufactured or prefabricated pools which do not bear product approval from an accredited testing agency. (c) Swimming pools which are open and unenclosed may occupy a required rear or interior side yard setback, provided they are not located closer than five feet to a rear lot line or eight feet to an interior side lot line. (d) Commercial swimming pools are prohibited in residential districts. (e) Swimming pools shall not occupy a required front or corner side yard setback. (f) Swimming pools may not be constructed prior to the construction of the principal building. (g) For the purposes of this section, neither pools nor screened enclosures are considered structures for the sole purpose of determining lot coverage. Pools and screen enclosures shall meet the setback requirements as stipulated elsewhere in this chapter. (h) For the purposes of this section, neither pools nor screened enclosures are considered structures for the purpose of determining lot coverage. Pools and screened enclosures are not permitted in the setback area. (Code 1981, § 641.47(A); Ord. No. 16-98, § 1, 5-5-98) Sec. 110-582. Enclosure. (a) Any portion of a swimming pool to which access may be obtained from outside a http://library2.municode.com/gateway. dll/fl/florida/3 3 130/33321 /3 3 3 3 0?f=templates$ fn=... 02/02/2005 .,uapL I , 11\Lill r Ill 1 J - 11V1v t11VL riiL1 CAC V I-111ViN rage 1 1/1 1 / Chapter 5 TREE PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION* *Editor's note: Ord. No. 2002-08, §§ 1, 2, adopted April 8, 2002, amended former Ch. 5, Arbor, §§ 5-1--5-5, in its entirety to read as herein set out. Former Ch. 5 derived from Ord. No. 711, § I, 3- 22-99; Ord. No. 726, §§ 1--4, 6-28-99; Ord. No. 734, § 1, 9-27-99. Cross references: Code enforcement board to enforce certain ordinances of the city, § 2-56 et seq.;' beautification board, § 2-76 et seq.; buildings and building regulations, Ch. 6; flood damage prevention, Ch. 8; land development, Ch. 9; motor vehicles and traffic, Ch. 12; nuisances, Ch. 13; planning, Ch. 15; signs and advertising, Ch. 16; streets, sidewalks and other public places, Ch. 17; zoning, Ch. 20. Sec. 5-1. Applicability. Sec. 5-2. Intent and purpose. Sec. 5-3. Definitions. Sec. 5-4. Permit required for tree removal and land clearing; separate violations; criteria; contractor permit required. Sec. 5-5. City forestry office. Sec. 5-6. Permit application. Sec. 5-7. Tree pruning standards. Sec. 5-8. Specimen or historic trees. Sec. 5-9. Tree replacement guidelines. Sec. 5-10. Prohibitions. Sec. 5-11. Reserved. Sec. 5_12.Permit contents; ._expiration; removal afterexpiration of....permit. Sec. 5-13. Minimum tree requirement.. Sec 5-14. Tree ... protection during development and construction;periodic inspection. Sec. 5-15. Voluntary tree planting. Sec. 5-16. Waivers; incentive program and appeals. Sec. 5-17. Remedial action. Sec. 5-18. Enforcement; penalties. Sec. 5-19. Authorization to adopt rules and regulations and fees for implementation. Appendix A Undesirable Trees Appendix B Desirable Trees Appendix C Calculating Tree Protection Zone App. D Tree Protection Area Signage [THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK] Sec. 5-1. Applicability. This chapter shall be applicable to all land lying in the incorporated area of the City of Winter Springs, Florida. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; Ord. No. 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-2. Intent and purpose. (a) Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish protective regulations for trees within the city in order to maintain and protect the city forest, to better control problems of flooding, soil conversation, air pollution and noise, and to make the city a healthier, more http://library l.municode.com/gateway.dlllfllflorida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 k.iiaplel J 11Ctltl rKU 1 r . I RAN A1V1J rKLJtK V Al HUN "` rage z or 1 1 attractive and safer place in which to live. (b) Intent. The intent of this chapter is to encourage the protection of the maximum number of trees within the primary tree protection zone and of large specimen trees within the secondary tree protection zone. It is further the intent of this chapter to encourage the protection of trees native to Central Florida and to encourage proper removal of exotic, pest trees. To this end, it shall be unlawful to cut down, damage, poison, or in any other manner destroy or cause to be destroyed any tree or other vegetation as covered by the provisions of this chapter except in accordance with the provisions set forth herein. Notwithstanding, in case of emergencies involving natural disaster such as, but not limited to, flood, freeze or other natural disasters, the requirements of this chapter may be temporarily waived by the city commission by resolution. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; Ord. No. 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-3. Definitions. As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated unless the context clearly indicates otherwise: (a) Caliper. Measurement of tree twelve (12) inches from soil level. (b) City. The City of Winter Springs, Florida. (c) City forest. The aggregate of all street trees and all park trees. (d) Crown. The mass of branches, twigs and leaves at the top of a tree, with particular reference to its shape. (e) DBH. Diameter of trunk at breast height, (approximately four and one-half (4 1/2) feet from the ground of a tree base). (f) Desirable trees. Trees particularly adaptive to Central Florida identified as "desirable trees" in Appendix B of this chapter, as may be amended by the city manager or city commission. (g) Dripline. The vertical line running through the outermost portion of the tree crown extending to the ground. (h) Encroachment. The protrusion into a vehicular accessway, pedestrian -way, or required landscape area. (i) Heavy machinery. Mechanical land clearing, earth -moving, or earth -working equipment with a gross weight in excess of five thousand (5,000) pounds. For purposes of this chapter, all machinery which utilizes steel tracks for traction shall be considered to be heavy machinery, regardless of weight. (j) Historic tree. A tree which has been found by the city commission to be of notable historic interest to the city based on its age, species, size, historic association or unique characteristics. (k) Land clearing (grubbing). The disturbance or removal of vegetation using backhoes, bulldozers, root rakes, or similar mechanical means which may kill trees or damage their roots, branches, or trunks. Routine lawn mowing, sod replacement, planting of landscape material, shrub pruning, and shrub removal shall not be considered land clearing and grubbing provided no grade change occurs. (I) Person. Any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, joint venture association, principal, trustee, municipal corporation, political subdivision, or special district, or any agent or representative thereof. http://library 1. municode.com/gatew ay. dll/fl/fl ori da/28481/28 512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/ 1 /2005 L.1141.pLG1 J 1 iVGE rl' J 1 £1.1 IlJ1N /A1NU riccarac v H 111J1V Yageor11 (m) Preferred Plant/Tree. Preferred plants shall mean the plant materials listed in Appendix B: Desirable Trees and shall be of the size specified in the column labeled "Preferred Plant Size/Minimum Height," which may be amended from time to time by the city manager in writing. (n) Primary tree protection zone. This shall mean the front, side and rear yard areas as established and required by the Land Development Code of the city as the same may, from time to time, be amended. (o) Protected area. An area surrounding a protected, historic, or specimen tree within which physical intrusion is prohibited in order to prevent damage to the tree, roots and soil around the tree base, the dimensions of which shall be established by the city and set forth in the tree removal permit, in according with section 5-14. (p) Protective barrier. Shall be a polygon of 2" x 4" wide stakes spaced a maximum of eight (8) feet from each other at the perimeter of the tree protection zone and which extend out of the ground at least thirty-six (36) inches, with the top four (4) inches marked by flourescent orange paint or tape. (q) Replacement trees. Replacement trees shall at a minimum comply with the provisions of subsection 5-9. (r) Secondary tree protection zone. This shall mean all areas not included in the primary tree protection zone. Subdivision street rights -of -way and easements are also defined as being within the secondary tree protection zone. (s) Silviculture. A process, following acceptable forest management principles, whereby the crops constituting forests are tended, harvested and reproduced. (t) Specimen tree. A tree, other than an undesirable tree, structurally unsound tree that cannot be recovered by pruning, dead tree, or diseased tree, that has a caliper of twenty- four (24) inches or more in diameter. Specimen trees shall not include laurel oak ( Quercus laurifolia ), sand pine ( Pinus clausa ), or cherry laurel ( Prunus caroliniana). (u) Stem. The main trunk of a plant; its primary axis that develops buds and shoots instead of roots. (v) Transplant. The act of relocating an existing tree upon the same lot. (w) Tree. Self-supporting wood, perennial plants of species which have a trunk with a diameter of at least four (4) inches measured at caliper and normally grow to an overall Crown height of a minimum of fifteen (15) feet. Cabbage palm greater than fifteen (15) feet tall. (x) Tree protection zone. Shall mean that area located around the perimeter of the tree in which no activity such as clearing, filling, excavating, storage of materials, parking of vehicles, or any other activity that in the opinion of the forester may damage the tree may occur. This zone is calculated according to Appendix C to this chapter. (y) Tree removal. Shall mean any act which will cause a tree situated on real property to die within a period of two (2) years from the time of the act including, but not limited to, by cutting, girdling, relocating, interfering with the water supply, applying chemicals, regrading around the base of the tree trunk. (z) Tree replacement assessment. Tree replacement assessment shall mean the total amount of monetary compensation owed to the City of Winter Springs may be required by this chapter for the replacement of trees cut, destroyed, or removed as a result of development or redevelopment. (aa) Tree replacement credit. The tree replacement credit shall be established by the city commission and set forth in Appendix B: Desirable Trees. http://libraryl.municode.com/gateway.d11/fl/florida/2848 1/28 5 12?f=templatesSfn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 L 1lapte1 J 1 R [',D rick) 1 £k 11v1N H1VL J'1W tK V H 111J1V rage40111 (bb) Tree trunk. The main stem of a tree apart from limbs and roots. (cc) Undesirable trees. All types of trees identified as "undesirable trees" in Appendix A of this chapter as amended from time to time by the city manager in writing. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-4. Permit required for tree removal and land clearing; separate violations; criteria; contractor permit required. (a) Permit required. No person shall engage in tree removal or engage in land clearing located within the city, without first obtaining a permit as provided in this chapter. If a property owner has retained a contractor to perform the land clearing or tree removal, the contractor shall be responsible for obtaining the permit required by this chapter prior to the land clearing or tree removal. It shall be a separate violation of this chapter for each tree removed and each day a person is engaged in land clearing without a permit. (b) Criteria. Upon receipt of a completed application and verification on -site by the city forester, a permit may be issued for tree removal under any one of the following conditions: (1) Trees located on building and construction sites as shown on city approved plans, provided said trees are replaced elsewhere on the property in accordance with section 5-9 of this chapter. (2) Trees located within ten (10) feet of a structure or other improvement, provided said trees are replaced elsewhere on the property in accordance with section 5-9 of this chapter. (3) Trees severely diseased, severely injured or dead. (4) Trees that interfere with the construction or repair of public infrastructure and facilities. (5) Undesirable trees, per Appendix A. (6) Trees removed by the city or other governmental agency and which are located within a public road, drainage rights -of -way, or permanent utilities and drainage easements. (7) Trees that have been approved by the city forester and which shall be replaced elsewhere on the property. (8) All trees and plants, within a licensed tree nursery, planted for harvest shall be exempt from the terms and provisions of this chapter only if trees are planted and growing on the premises of the licensee and are for sale or intended for sale in its ordinary course of business. (c) Review standards. When making a determination on whether a tree meets one of the conditions set forth in section 5-4(b) and therefore, whether to approve or deny an application under this chapter, the city shall apply one (1) or more of the following standards of review deemed relevant: (1) Necessity to remove trees which pose a clear and obvious safety hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic or threaten to cause disruption to public services or a significant obstacle to accessing and utilizing public easements and rights -of -way. (2) Necessity to remove trees which pose a clear and obvious safety hazard to buildings and other improvements on a lot or parcel of land. Ordinary small cracks or uplifts in pavement, sidewalks, and non -occupied structures that are typically caused by settling and small roots shall not be considered a safety hazard. http://libraryl.municode.com/gateway.dll/f /florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 L,11At1Lc1 J 11.J1L rlty 1EN,11VIN H1NJJ rclb'c J 01 1 / (3) Necessity to remove diseased trees or trees weakened by age, storm, fire or other injury or trees with severe structural defects that pose a clear and obvious safety hazard to people, buildings or other improvements on lot or parcel of land. (4) The extent to which tree removal is likely to result in damage to the property of other owners, public or private, including damage to lakes, ponds, streams, or rivers through runoff or erosion. (5) Any proposed landscaping including plans whereby the applicant has planted or will plant trees to replace those that are proposed to be cleared. (6) Topography of the land and the effect of tree removal on erosion, soil retention and the diversion or increased flow of surface water. (7) Good forestry practices, such as the number of healthy trees that a given parcel of land will reasonably support and the proven techniques that sustain healthy trees. (8) Necessity to remove trees in order to construct approved and permitted improvements to allow economic enjoyment of the property, including: a. Need for access around the proposed structure for construction equipment (maximum of ten (10) feet). b. Need for access to the building site for construction equipment. c. Essential grade changes. d. Need for locating street or road rights -of -way, utilities, drainage ways, as well as the need to provide reasonable use and property access. (9) The extent of any damage or demonstrated hardship which would result to the applicant from a denial of the requested permit. (10) The species and size of the trees proposed for removal. (11) The following factors shall also be considered: a. Trees forming the current canopy. b. Preservation of the next generation of trees. (d) Silviculture exemption. All trees planted specifically for silvicultural purposes shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter provided the property owner can provide documentation to the city evidencing that: (1) The property is registered as a silvicultural site with the division of forestry; and (2) Trees of typical harvestable size and type exist on the property which are capable of being harvested for income and that the property owner has, or intends to, generate income from the harvested trees. (e) Contractor license required; contractor obtaining permits. Any person or entity engaged in the business of tree removal or pruning shall be licensed by the city on an annual basis. Licenses may be obtained from the city by completing an application prepared by the city and paying the required license fee. The license application shall contain at a minimum the name, address, and telephone number of the contractor and a copy of the contractor's occupational license and proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. It shall be unlawful for any person or entity to engage in the business of tree removal or pruning within the City of Winter Springs without a license required under this subsection. It shall also be unlawful for any such person or entity to fail to obtain a permit on behalf of a property owner pursuant to section 5-4(a) of this chapter. http://library1.municode.com/gateway.dlUfl/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 V11CLVLN4. ✓ 11\L i 1 1\V 11.+t.1Ill 1`4 CAI 1\L'JL:A V ti11V1V (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) rage o of 1 1 Sec. 5-5. City forestry office. (a) Establishment of office. There is hereby created within the department of community development, the office of city forestry. The community development director shall head this office and the city manager shall appoint one (1) or more employees of the department to act in the capacity of forester for the city. (b) Scope of authority. The city forester shall be charged with the responsibility and authority to review and oversee all activities within the city limits which involve tree removal, land clearing, or danger to and by any tree. Notwithstanding, the city forester shall have absolutely no authority to vary any plans, permits, or agreements approved by the city commission. (c) Responsibilities. The role of the city forester shall include, but not necessarily be limited to: (1) Receiving and processing applications for tree removal, land clearing and other permits under this chapter. (2) Inspection of all property subject to an application. (3) Confirming all information provided by the applicant is correct and accurate. (4) To approve or deny all permit applications under this chapter. (5) To issue cease and desist work orders upon persons in violations of this chapter for a maximum of two working days. Upon review of the violation by the city manager, the city manager may extend the cease and desist work order until the violation is brought into compliance and all resulting fines incurred as a result of the violation have been paid. The city manager's decision may be appealed to the city commission pursuant to section 5-16(b) of this chapter. (6) To bring violators of this chapter before the code enforcement board. (7) To issue code enforcement citations for any violation of this chapter. (8) To augment the city's forest by the planting or approval of planting of additional trees on public property. (9) To keep a permanent record of all historic or specimen trees designated by the city commission. (10) To educate the public regarding this chapter and the importance of maintaining a city forest. (11) To handle other related job duties assigned by the city manager. (12) To serve as a member of the staff development review committee. (13) To educate city personnel responsible for tree removal, planting, pruning and landscape maintenance. (14) To assist in implementing, and issue permits in furtherance of, any development agreement, plan, or permit approved by the city commission relating to landscaping and trees. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) http://libraryl.municode.com/gateway.dlUf /florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 J 1 ICnr rMC / 1 t.L 1111N HIND YKKJKK V A l ION* Page 7 of 17 Sec. 5-6. Permit application. (a) Filing application and payment of fees. An application for tree removal and land clearing shall be filed on official forms provided by the city's forester. The applicant shall be required to pay a fee as may be established by resolution of the city commission, except that no fee shall be required for the removal of trees that are dead, diseased, suffer from severe structural defects, pose a clear and obvious safety hazard to structures and people or removed for a public project sponsored and paid for by the city. If the applicant is not the property owner, then the applicant shall attach the written permission of the property owner to the application. All completed applications shall be returned to the forester, along with the following: (1) A tree inventory, for the portion of the site to be developed, consisting of a scaled drawing of a scale of one (1) inch equals fifty (50) feet or Tess for undeveloped land or for developed single family residential land, a sketch approximately one (1) inch equals fifty (50) feet or less indicating: a. Property boundaries. b. The location of all individual trees including the tree's common or scientific name, and caliper of trees. c. An indication of all trees proposed for removal. d. Within the primary tree protection zone, a plan shall designate the trees to be retained and those proposed to be removed, relocated or replaced. Those trees proposed for removal, relocation or replacement shall also be identified by common or botanical name. e. Within the secondary tree protection zone, a plan shall designate the trees to be retained, and those proposed to be removed. f. The location of existing and proposed improvements, if any, including proposed additions to existing buildings, existing and proposed buildings, structures, impervious surfaces (e.g. pool decks, drives, parking areas), stormwater retention areas, utilities, and other such improvements. g. A replacement plan indicating the means of compensating for the tree(s) to be removed including the species and size of any replacement tree(s). h. Location of trees preserved for replacement credit. i. If grade changes are proposed on the site, a grading plan drawn to scale shall be provided. In addition, a written statement shall be provided by a landscape architect or other competent professional indicating the probability of whether the grade change will result in the death of tree(s) intended to be preserved. Said statement shall immediately be brought to the attention of the city forester at the time the application is filed and prominently attached to the front of the application. j. A protection plan describing how preserved tree(s) shall be preserved on the site and adjacent properties during construction, tree removal, and grading. k. An aerial photograph showing the boundaries of the subject property and adjacent properties. (2) Valid reasons for the removal of trees. (3) The appropriate permit fees. (b) Time for application. Applications for a tree removal or land clearing permit shall be http://library1.municode.com/gateway.dllifl/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 vA ainci J 1 s r,� rm..) 1 LL 11viN 111N11 rrcC31 1(V H 11viN T Yage of 1 / made prior to removal or clearing; except that in the following cases, application shall be filed when indicated: (1) All new subdivisions shall be required to submit an application for a tree removal or land clearing permit, at the time of initial submittal of the subdivision plan, to the city forester so that due consideration may be given to protection of trees during the subdivision design process. Each application for a tree removal permit shall be subject to review under the staff development review committee process. (2) Any commercial, industrial, multi -family or other use requiring site plan approval under the city land development regulations shall be required to submit an application for a tree removal and land clearing permit at the time of site plan submittal so that due consideration may be given to the protection of trees during the site plan design process. Each application for a tree removal permit shall be subject to review under the staff development review committee process. (3) All new single-family and duplex dwelling units shall be required to submit an application for a tree removal and land clearing permit at the time of application for a building permit; the tree inventory may be shown on the building permit plot plan. (c) Exempting portion of the tree survey. Upon request, the city forester may permit an applicant to omit certain portions of the tree inventory where compliance With the requirements set forth herein would be unnecessarily burdensome and the exempted portions are not needed for the city to evaluate the application. (d) Permit fee. A nonreturnable permit fee to be established by resolution of the city commission shall be paid for purposes of processing the application, enforcing the provisions of this chapter, and inspecting the real property subject to the application. (e) Posting of permit. The permit must be posted upon the property and visible from the street to be valid. (f) City commission approved plans, permits, and agreements. All permits issued by the city forester under this chapter shall be required to be consistent, and not in conflict, with any plans, permits, or development agreements approved by the city commission. All permits or portions thereof issued by the city forester in conflict with any approval of the city commission shall be deemed null and void and the approval of the city commission shall remain in full force and effect. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-7. Tree pruning standards. (a) Standards adopted. Trees intended for shade purposes shall be allowed to reach mature canopy spread and shall be pruned in accordance with the ANSI A 300 Part I Pruning standard and ANSI Z133.1 safety standard. Pruning should be performed with defined pruning objectives and according to a specific pruning plan to accomplish the objective including the minimum and/or maximum branch size to be removed. (b) Unlawful pruning. The pruning techniques described in section 5-10(i) of this chapter shall be deemed unlawful. (2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) trees Sec. 5-8. Specimen or historic trees. (a) Designation. Certain trees, herein referred to as "specimen" or "historic" trees, are of http://library 1.municode.com/gateway. d1UfUflorida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 k.,iiapwl ✓ 11\L J 1 1t1J 11:t.11 J1v t INJ_J rxsmaraC v t1111JIV' rage 9or ii especially great concern to the public because of ecological value, of indigenous character, size, age or historic association. Determination that a tree is a historic tree shall be made by resolution of the city commission after a recommendation of the beautification board of Winter Springs, and the city forester shall keep a permanent record of all trees so designated by the city commission. Specimen trees are all trees (other than "undesirable trees" identified in Appendix A, dead trees or diseased trees) which have a caliper of twenty-four (24) inches or more in diameter. Designation as an historic tree may occur in any one of the following ways: (1) An applicant may request designation of an historic tree as part of any master plan, preliminary subdivision plat, or site plan application. To do so, the applicant shall submit an expert evaluation by a landscape architect, horticulturalist, city forester, or other horticultural expert as part of the application. (2) A property owner may request such designation at any time. To do so, the property owner shall submit an expert evaluation by a landscape architect, horticulturalist, city forester historian or other horticultural expert. (3) The city's forester may recommend such designation as part of their review of any application for development, stating in writing their reasons for such designation, or may make such designation as part of an overall tree protection planning program for the city or portion thereof. (4) Historic tree designations shall be subject to approval by resolution of the city commission and the city commission may grant tree replacement credits, upon granting an historic tree designation. (b) Removal. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, specimen or historic trees shall not be removed except for extraordinary circumstances and hardships and only by final permit approved by the city commission. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-9. Tree replacement guidelines. (a) Tree replacement. All trees that are removed or destroyed and subject to replacement by this chapter shall be replaced by a species of tree cited in Appendix B, desirable trees or such other trees properly approved by the city forester. Replacement shall occur prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy (if approval is pending) or within thirty (30) days of removal or destruction, whichever date is earlier, unless a greater replacement period is provided for good cause by permit. (b) Criteria for replacement trees is as follows: (1) Characteristics of replacement trees. The replacement tree(s) shall have at least equal shade potential, screening properties, and/or other characteristics comparable to that of the tree(s) requested to be removed. (2) Size of replacement trees. Replacement tree(s) are to be made according to the tree replacement standards set forth in Table 1 [at the end of this section]; or (2) otherwise agreed upon by the city commission and applicant. (3) Tree species. Relocated or replacement trees shall include only species and sizes defined as desirable trees (Appendix B) under this chapter. (4) Transplanting and maintenance requirements. All trees transplanted pursuant to this chapter shall be maintained in a healthy, living condition. Any such trees which die shall be replaced and maintained by the property owner. The city shall retain jurisdiction for one (1) year to ensure compliance with this chapter. http://library1.municode.com/gateway. d11/flflorida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 V110.1/(Awl J 11\Lil+ 1 LW 1 11V1N t'11V1I riVUOCd" V H11J1v rage 1 u of 1 / TABLE INSET: (5) Waivers of replacement tree(s) specifications. The number of required replacement trees may be waived by the city commission, if the city commission determines that the remaining number of trees to be preserved on site are of sufficient number and quality to substantially comply with the purpose and intent of this chapter and a tree replacement fee is paid to the city's "tree bank," which is hereby established. Monies collected in the tree bank shall be used for enhancement and maintenance of trees on public lands. The contribution to the tree bank may be waived by the city commission for individual homeowners, on a case -by -case basis, if the homeowner can demonstrate that the payment of the fee will cause the homeowner an undue economic hardship. Substitute tree(s) allowed under this waiver provision must have the approval of the city commission. The amount to be paid into the tree bank shall be set forth in Table 1 and should be based upon wholesale market value of the trees being replaced, plus installation and maintenance costs to establish the tree. (6) Replacement guidelines. The following tree replacement guidelines shall apply: a. All plant material specified shall be Florida Grades and Standard One (1) or better. b. For each tree located within a public conservation area (excluding jurisdictional wetlands determined by the St. John's River Water Management District or the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, or as depicted on Map V-3: Existing Wetlands in the City of Winter Springs Comprehensive Plan) dedicated to the city as part of a development project, three (3) replacement tree credits may be applied to the total number of trees required to be replaced by this chapter. However, the minimum tree requirement set forth in section 5-13 shall still apply. Such public conservation area must be at least one (1) acre with widths not less than one hundred twenty-five (125) feet, unless otherwise approved by the city commission. In addition, trees approved by the city forester to reforest such conservation area shall also be applied to the replacement requirement on a one -for -one basis. c. If the city commission determines, due to site conditions or configuration, it is impossible or impracticable for the applicant/developer to meet the requirements for tree replacement, under this subsection, the city commission may allow the applicant/developer to pay into the city's "tree bank" the amount it would have spent on replacement trees. d. Tree replacement credit shall be allowed for the installation of preferred plants in accordance with the provisions set forth in Appendix B: Desirable Trees. In addition, for new development, tree replacement credit shall be allowed for the preservation of existing Desirable Trees on the development site, excluding wetland areas and existing conservation areas, as follows: DBH of Preserved Tree Reduction in Replacement Trees 4" up to but not including 9" 1 credit 9' up to but not including 12" 2 credits http://library1.municode.com/gateway.dll/fl/florida/28481 /28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 apLci .i 11XL:12. rtwv 1 c& 11v1v ti1VL r.tworac V t 11V1N 12" up to but not including 16" 3 credits Yage 11 of 1 / 16" up to but not including 24" 4 credits Specimen and Historic Trees 0 credits e. Trees planted under a powerline shall not exceed a mature height of twenty-five (25) feet. f. Diversity of species shall be required for replacement trees and not more than twenty (20) percent of the replacement trees shall be of a single species. g. All landscape plans shall be prepared by a landscape architect licensed by the State of Florida, unless the city determines the proposed landscaping or tree removal has a deminimus impact on the property. (c) Replacement cost. The property owner shall be responsible for the cost of replacing the trees removed from their property. (d) Elimination of undesirable trees and shrubs. The natural vegetative communities existing within the city shall be protected by the control and elimination of invasive, nonnative species. To that end, the following guidelines shall apply: (1) Planting of trees and shrubs listed in Appendix A, Undesirable Trees, is prohibited. (2) Removal of trees and shrubs listed on Appendix A, Undesirable Trees, from commercial, office, industrial, or multifamily sites (excluding jurisdictional wetlands) shall be completed, whenever practicable, as a requirement for approval of any development permit issued by the city or the issuance of a certificate of occupancy if applicable. (3) Control and elimination procedures shall in no way promote the proliferation of the species through the dispersal of seed or other vegetatively reproducing parts. (4) Control and elimination procedures shall in no way harm or cause the decline of preserved or planted trees and landscaping. (e) Limited exception for existing single-family lots. Notwithstanding any other tree replacement standard set forth in this section, a tree removal permit for a single tree shall be granted, as a matter of right, for each existing single family home lot, provided the city forester determines that: (1) The tree is not a specimen or historic tree; (2) The tree canopy covering the pervious portion of the lot after removal of the tree will be greater than fifty (50) percent; and (3) A permit under this subsection (e) had not been granted during the preceding ten-year period. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) TABLE 1. TREE REPLACEMENT STANDARDS TABLE INSET: http://library l .municode.com/gateway.dlUf1/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 114:1FLG1 . 1 ni:L riw 1 E1,11V1N tin II 1 1WJrK V H 1WIN "" Page 12 of 17 DBH of Protected Tree Number of Replacement Canopy Trees Required for Each Tree Removed Number of Replacement Small Trees or Palms Required for Each Tree Removed Preferred Plant Contribition to Tree Bank* 4' up to but not including 8" 1 or 1 or Preferred Plant (s) w/Credits or $250.00 8' up to but not including 12" 2 or 2 Preferred Plant (s) w/Credits $500.00 12' up to but not including 16. 3 Not allowed Preferred Plant (s) w/Credits $750.00 16' up to but not including 24" 4 Not allowed Preferred Plant (s) w/Credits $1,000.00 >24' To Be Preserved To Be Preserved To Be Preserved To Be Preserved *These amounts may be adjusted biannually to compensate for increases to costs of plants as well as to costs of installation and establishment. Sec. 5-10. Prohibitions. (a) Placement of materials, machinery, or temporary soil deposits. It shall be unlawful to place material, machinery, or temporary soil deposits within the tree protection zone, as calculated according to Appendix C: Calculating Tree Protection Zone, before or during construction. Before or during construction the builder shall erect and maintain suitable protective barriers around all trees to be preserved. Upon written request, the city forester, on a case by case basis, may allow material or temporary soil deposits to be stored within the protective barrier if no other storage is available. (b) Climbing spurs. It shall be unlawful to use climbing spurs or other similar device to aid in the climbing of a live tree, where such device causes the puncture or tears the bark of the tree. (c) Tree spiking. It shall be unlawful to introduce any type of poison or reactive material to a tree for the purpose of causing it to die or become diseased. (d) Structure and pavement location. It shall be unlawful to place any structure or impervious paving within eight -foot radius of any tree trunk or stem having a diameter of four (4) inches or more at caliper. (e) City trees. It shall be unlawful to trim, prune, or remove any tree which is within the city's rights -of -way or upon any other city property without the permission of the city evidenced by the appropriate permit. (f) Attachments. It shall be unlawful to attach anything to a tree or stem, including nails or spikes, having a diameter of four (4) inches or more at caliper, other than protective wires, braces or other similar noninjurious materials. (g) Cut and fill guidelines. It shall be unlawful to remove or add any material or ground within the tree protection zone unless otherwise permitted by the forester. http://library1.municode.com/gateway.dll/fl/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 ua��ci J 1rlty 1 GL 11v1v H1NJ J r1W t,K V H 1 Page 13 of 17 (h) Encroachment of the dripline. During the construction stage of development, the developer or property owner shall not cause or allow land clearing, the use of heavy equipment or material within the dripline of any tree or groups of trees to be retained. Neither shall the developer cause or allow the disposal of waste material such as paint, oil, solvents, asphalt, concrete, mortar or any other material harmful to the life of a tree within the dripline of any tree or groups of trees, or where planting beds are to be situated. (i) Shearing, hat racking, topping or poodle trimming of trees (lollipop), lions -tailing, pollarding of Trees. Trees intended for shade purposes shall be allowed to reach their mature canopy spread. It shall be unlawful to engage in excessive pruning techniques on trees intended for shade purposes. Excessive shearing, pruning or shaping shall only be allowed with a permit by demonstrating necessity or without a permit in times of emergency only. The following are deemed unlawful excessive pruning techniques which are prohibited on shade trees: (1) Lions tailing : The improper practice of removing most secondary and tertiary branches from the interior portion of the canopy leaving most live foliage at the edge of the canopy. (2) Topping, hatracking, stag heading, de -horning, lopping, and rounding over : the improper practice of reducing tree size by making heading cuts through a stem more than two (2) years old; a pruning practice that destroys tree architecture and serves to initiate discoloration and perhaps decay in the cut stem. (3) Pollarding : The pruning technique that removes sprouts back to the same location annually or biannually maintaining a tree to a specific height. (4) Shearing : A pruning technique which is typically accomplished with cuts made through wood less than a year old at the sides of the canopy to create uniform dense canopies. (5) Poodle trimming : Combines shearing and removing lower limbs to create tree forms that look like a "lollipop." (j) Construction near adjacent property. Walls, structures, and pavement shall not be constructed in any way which will result in damage to roots within the tree protection zones of trees located on adjacent properties. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-11. Reserved. Sec. 5-12. Permit contents; expiration; removal after expiration of permit. (a) Permit contents. The tree removal permit, when issued, shall specifically identify which trees shall be permitted to be removed. The removal permits merely authorize the removal of the trees specified therein. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require the removal of such trees by the permittee. (b) Permit expiration. Any permit issued under this chapter shall automatically expire six (6) months after issuance, except for permits issued in conjunction with a building permit which shall automatically expire six (6) months after issuance or at such time the building permit expires, whichever is later. (c) Restrictions on tree removal after permit expiration. Trees not removed during the life of the permit may not be removed without the issuance of a new permit based upon a new http://library 1.municode.com/gateway.dll/f /florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 k.,tiaptzi J 1 ivnE, rm../ 1 EA., 11v1V HIV V H 11U1V Yage 14 of 1 "/ application. (d) Permit display. The permit shall be located and maintained upon the site at all time until final inspection or until issuance of a certificate of occupancy if applicable. For new developments, the permit shall be attached to the "posting board" with other permits. For existing developments and existing single-family residences, the permit shall be displayed so as to be easily visible from the street. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-13. Minimum tree requirement. No certificate of occupancy shall be issued on the types of construction indicated below unless the underlying parcel has at least the required minimum number of approved trees: (a) Any new single-family or duplex dwelling unit on a lot of Tess than six thousand (6,000) square feet or greater: not fewer than two (2) trees. (b) Any new single-family or duplex dwelling unit on a lot equal to six thousand (6,000) square feet: not fewer than two (2) trees plus one (1) additional tree for each four thousand( 4,000) square feet over six thousand (6,000) square feet. (c) Any commercial, industrial, multi -family or other structure requiring site plan approval under the city land development regulations: no fewer than six (6) trees or four (4) trees per acre, whichever is greater. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-14. Tree protection during development and construction; periodic inspection. (a) Restrictions during construction. It shall be unlawful for any person, during the construction of any structures or other improvements, to place solvents, petroleum products, paint or masonry materials, construction machinery or temporary soil deposits within the dripline of any tree for which a tree removal permit is required but has not been obtained. This provision includes soil that is placed in the dripline permanently for the purpose of a grade change, unless the grade is changed according to the guidelines described in the Florida Division of Forestry, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Publication, Tree Protection Manual for Buildings and Developers. (b) Burden of tree protection on property owner. It shall be the responsibility of a property owner and their agents to ensure that any tree shown on the tree inventory for which a tree removal permit has not been obtained is to be protected. The property owner shall guarantee survival of retained trees and replacement trees for one (1) year from completion of permitted construction, unless a greater time period is required by development agreement. If a retained or replacement tree dies during that time period, the property owner shall replace the tree in accordance with a remedial action approved under section 5-17 of this chapter. (c) Protective barriers and signage required. Protective barriers shall be installed prior to construction (as determined using Appendix C: Calculating Tree Protection Zone) around every tree or group of trees to be preserved. Waterproof, rigid "Protection Zone Area" signs, as shown on Appendix D: Tree Protection Area Signage and not smaller than two (2) feet by three (3) feet shall be posted at 100-foot increments along the protective barriers. (d) Site inspections. The city forester may conduct periodic inspections of the site. It is the responsibility of the property owner and their agents to ensure that all provisions of this http://library 1.municode.com/gateway. d11/fl/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 �.11ur 1v1 ✓ A 1 1\V 11i%.. 1AV' 1 L-1191" 1 1\Li)L'1‘. V P111V1V rage 1J oI 1 i chapter are met. (e) Adjacent properties. The property owner and their agents shall ensure that the tree protection zones of trees located on adjacent properties are protected as required by this chapter for trees located on the site being developed. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-15. Voluntary tree planting. This chapter shall not be interpreted to restrict, regulate or limit the voluntary planting of any tree within the city. The provisions of this chapter govern only the planting of trees which are required to be planted or retained under this chapter. Trees or plants planted in the city's rights -of - way are subject to removal or trimming by the city at any time. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-16. Waivers; incentive program and appeals. (a) Waivers. The city commission may grant a waiver to provisions of this chapter where the applicant demonstrates that the literal interpretation of the chapter will deny the applicant reasonable use of the property or where such waiver can be demonstrated to be consistent with the purpose and intent of the chapter. The preservation of any approved tree over four (4) inches in caliper may be considered as the basis for the granting of a waiver from the literal application of the provisions of the city's land development regulations. If, in the determination of the city commission, the sole basis for the request for waiver is to preserve such tree which would otherwise have to be removed, it may direct any required waiver fee to be waived. (b) Appeals. Any person adversely affected by an administrative interpretation of this chapter by the city forester may first appeal that interpretation to the city manager by filing a written notice of appeal of said interpretation within ten (10) calendar days of said interpretation. The city manager shall decide said appeal within five (5) business days. Any person adversely affected by an administrative decision of the city manager under this chapter may appeal that interpretation to the city commission by filing a written notice of appeal of said interpretation within thirty (30) calendar days of said interpretation. Failure to file an appeal within the time periods required by this subsection shall result in the administrative interpretation to be declared final and shall be deemed a waiver of the person's right to further appellate review and proceedings. The city commission shall decide said appeal within thirty (30) days of the city's receipt of said notice of appeal and the city commission's decision shall be final. Except for the mandatory time periods required for the notice of appeal, the time periods required for a decision may be extended by mutual agreement between the city and the person filing the notice of appeal. (c) Incentive program. The city commission reserves the right to offer and approve incentives for purposes of protecting and preserving mature trees and planting enhanced landscaping. Such incentives shall have a public benefit and may include, but are not limited to, varying provisions of the city's land development regulations (e.g. reduced parking; modified setbacks) and providing credits to city development fees. Any incentives granted under this subsection shall be consistent with the comprehensive plan and shall be by development agreement or other formal approval. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) http://library 1.municode.com/gateway.dll/flflorida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 \.11plltVl J 11\lili 1 1\V 1 11V1V tilvll r1. arac V t111111V rage Ito of 1 / Sec. 5-17. Remedial action. (a) Violations require remedial action. Where violations of this chapter have occurred, remedial action shall be taken to restore the property consistent with a restoration plan approved by the city forester or the city commission if the violation is inconsistent with plans, permits, or agreements approved by the city commission. The restoration plan may require mitigation of any other damage to the property, as well as tree replacements. (b) Tree replacement remediation requirements. Each tree destroyed or receiving major damage during construction must be replaced by either a comparable size and desirable type of tree as listed within Appendix B or providing a contribution to the tree bank equal to four (4) times the contribution listed on Table 1. Tree Replacement Standards [following section 5-9] or planting four (4) preferred plants listed within Appendix B before issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion. (c) Property owner to guarantee survival of replaced trees. The property owner shall guarantee the survival of the trees required to be placed under subsection (b) above for a period of two (2) years from the date the certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion is issued, unless a greater time period is required by development agreement. If the replacement tree dies, the tree shall be replaced in accordance with this section. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-18. Enforcement; penalties. (a) Enforcement. The city may enforce the provisions of this chapter by any lawful means including, but not limited to, issuing a civil citation, bringing charges before the city's code enforcement board or special master, and seeking injunctive and equitable relief. For purposes of determining the penalties provided under this chapter, the removal or death of a tree in violation of this chapter shall be deemed irreparable or irreversible. (b) Penalties. In addition to all other remedies set forth in this chapter, one or more of the following civil fines shall apply to violations of this chapter: (1) Failure to obtain a permit under section 5-4(a): Fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per tree or five hundred dollars ($500.00) per specimen or historic tree removed, not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00). (2) Removal of a tree without a permit: Fine of fifty dollars ($50.00) per caliper inch, not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) per tree. (3) Removal of a specimen or historic tree without a permit: Fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00) per caliper inch, not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) per tree. (4) Failure to abide by a cease and desist order issued under this Chapter: Fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per day. (5) Failure to obtain a contractor's license under section 5-4(e): Fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) (1st offense); five hundred dollars ($500.00) (2nd and each subsequent offense). (6) Failure to abide by the requirements of section 5-10 of this Chapter: Fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) per occurrence. (7) Any other violation of this chapter: Fine as provided by law and this chapter. (c) Civil fine determination. In determining the amount of the civil fine under subsection (6) above, the following factors shall be considered: http://library 1.municode.com/gateway.dll/flflorida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005 «1 J IVE.E.1rl v1v1V JAM.,r1[t t1'(VH11V1V- _Page 17 of 17 (1) The gravity of the violation. (2) Any actions taken by the violator to correct the violation. (3) Any previous violations of this chapter committed by the violator. (4) The number and size of the trees removed, if any. (5) The historical significance of any tree removed if the tree was deemed historic. (6) Whether the violation is irreparable or irreversible in nature. (7) The remedial actions offered by the violator to restore the property consistent with this chapter. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) Sec. 5-19. Authorization to adopt rules and regulations and fees for implementation. The city commission is hereby authorized to adopt, by resolution, such rules and regulations and fees as are necessary or proper to implement this chapter. (Ord. No. 2002-08, § 2, 4-8-02; 2003-22, § 2, 10-13-03) [THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK] http://library 1.municode.com/gateway. d11/fl/florida/28481/28512?f=templates$fn=document-fra... 2/1/2005