§ 60.213. Permitted Activities Within the Undisturbed Area.

(a)

Limited Construction. Limited construction is permitted within the undisturbed area when performed in conjunction with a valid Tree Encroachment Permit. Limited construction activities may include:

1.

Sidewalks, if constructed on top of existing grade with minimal excavation.

2.

Tunneling for the installation of underground utilities and irrigation piping (Figure 3).

Figure 3. Underground Utility Placement Near Existing Trees

3.

Fencing, post-mounted signs, lighting, flagpoles, and other similar structures if footings are non-continuous and not more than 24" in width or diameter (Figures 4 and 5).

4.

Irrigation components such as surface emitters (drip systems), and trench irrigation piping which approaches the center of the tree rather than laterally, to within 6 feet of the tree.

5.

Walls and monument (ground) signs, if constructed without continuous footings. These should be constructed with lintels above the root zones (Figure 6). Footings for lintels are limited to 24" width or diameter.

6.

Minimal grade changes of 5" or less.

7.

Decks and at-grade unit pavers when not constructed on continuous footings or slabs.

8.

High-albedo pavement and pervious pavement when installed with grade changes of 5" or less.

9.

Other construction activities, when approved by the Zoning Official, such as driveways and foundations or walls for buildings, when reasonable alternatives are not practical.

Figure 4. Permanent Fencing within the Undisturbed Area

 

Figure 5. Free Standing Wall with Fencing within the Undisturbed Area

 

Figure 6. Free Standing Wall with Lintel within the Undisturbed Area

(b)

Tree Encroachment Permit. A Tree Encroachment Permit is required for all activities in the undisturbed area except the following:

1.

Sodding and Ground Cover. Placement of sod or ground covers, and the preparation of the ground surface for such covers.

2.

Occasional Parking After Development. The undisturbed area may be used for occasional parking (approximately 1 to 2 times per week) after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the building site, when approved by the Zoning Official in accordance with the standards of this Part, provided:

A.

The Zoning Official finds that the spaces are located at the periphery of the building site, or otherwise so located that they are unlikely to be used on a continuous basis.

B.

All driveways and aisles serving the occasional parking spaces are paved.

C.

Access to occasional parking spaces is not blocked by curbing or other barricades which would prevent occasional use.

D.

Where necessary, the Zoning Official may require barriers to protect the tree(s) from cars.

(Ord. No. 2013-74, § 1, 12-9-2013, Doc. #1312091207)