Many new developments must provide landscaping on the site. This website provides guidance for the preparation of landscaping plans which are needed as part of a development permit application.

Landscaping

What is Landscaping?
Landscaping is the enhancement of an area for recreational use, aesthetic appearances, privacy, etc. Landscaping may consist of soft landscaping which is the planting of trees, shrubs, hedges, and grass, or other natural ground cover; or hard landscaping which is the decorative use of non-vegetative materials such as brick, stone, concrete, tile and wood. The use of monolithic concrete and asphalt shall not be considered to be hard landscaping.

Developments That Require Landscaping:
With the exception of sites proposed for single-family detached or two-unit dwelling, sites proposed for development shall be landscaped to the satisfaction of the Commission or the Development Officer, having regard to the following objectives:

• enhancement of aesthetics
• the separation of incompatible uses
• the creation of privacy
• the reduction of glare
• the reduction of noise
• the improvement of micro-climatic conditions
• the controlling of erosion and drifting of snow
• the enhancement of wildlife habitats
• the compatibility of landscaped areas with landscaped areas on the other sites in the area
• such other objectives as the Commission or the Development Officer considers advisable

Landscaping Plans:
Upon the request of the Development Officer or Municipal Planning Commission a landscape plan shall be submitted with the development permit application. The plan shall show all existing and proposed physical features, including berms, slopes, retaining walls, shrubs, and trees. All plant species must be identified, and in the case of trees, their height and caliper must be shown on the plan.