18.68.140 Landscaping—Standards.
A. The following landscape standards are applicable throughout the hillside development area:
1. Retention of Vegetation.
a. Whenever possible, well-adapted, fire-resistant indigenous vegetation shall be retained. The following species of trees and shrubs shall be protected, preserved and enhanced in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 18.78 of this code:
Existing Native Plants to Protect
Botanical Name |
Common Name |
Quercus agrifolia |
Coast live oak |
Quercus dumosa |
Scrub oak |
Quercus engelmanii |
Englemann oak |
Plantanus racemosa |
California sycamore |
Juglans californica |
Southern California black walnut |
Rhus ovata |
Sugar bush |
Rhamnus californica |
California coffeeberry |
Ceanothus species |
Ceanothus |
Heteromeles arbutifolia |
Toyon |
Fremontodendron californicum |
Common flannel bush |
Existing Ornamental Plants to Protect
Botanical Name |
Common Name |
Eucalyptus species |
Gums |
Arbutus undeo |
Strawberry tree |
Ginkgo biloba |
Maidenhair tree |
Cinnamomum camphora |
Camphor tree |
Prunus illicifolia |
Hollyleaf cherry |
Xylosma congestum |
Shiny xylosma |
Cedrus deodara |
Deodar cedar |
Citrus species |
Citrus |
Olea europaea |
Olive tree |
i. Significant trees and shrubs as defined in this section shall be conserved during subdivision, development or other site works or construction activities. Also protected are heritage trees as specified in Chapter 18.78 of this code.
ii. No development in hillside areas shall be permitted until the city has reviewed and approved a tree preservation plan which preserves the maximum number of healthy native trees possible. Of particular interest are California coast live oaks (Quercus agrifolia). The plan shall contain a minimum five-year maintenance program.
iii. Where tree preservation is not possible, the city may require relocation of trees to other developments or other portions of the same development. Such relocations shall be bonded to provide for same-size replacement if needed. This is not an exemption from subsection (A)(1)(a)(i) of this section.
iv. The city shall require replacement of protected species at a 4:1 ratio; the city may require a mixture of sizes and ages to create a natural appearance.
v. Where natural riparian systems have been damaged from previous development, the city may require remedial landscaping, grading and drainage improvement to restore its character and appearance. Existing riparian and wilderness habitats shall be protected.
vi. The city landscape architect shall determine areas of significant vegetation when reviewing initial development applications.
b. New Plants.
i. Introduced landscaping within the residential areas of any subdivision shall contain variety, texture, color and blend with the natural landscape. A minimal use of ornamental vegetation is encouraged in order to preserve the integrity of the natural vegetation of the hillside.
ii. Screening along arterial and collector roads should make maximum use of berming and landscaping. Shade, screening, erosion control or appearance, for example, should determine what types of plants are selected. Thickness, height, color, seasonal characteristics and ultimate growth should also be considered.
iii. The amount of landscaping provided must be in proportion to the whole development, be integrated with building design, and soften the effects of buildings, pavement and grading.
B. In addition, the following standards and guidelines shall apply:
1. Landscape design shall imitate natural patterns as much as possible; e.g., denser vegetation should be planted in and along drainage courses and where water would naturally collect.
2. Xeriscape landscaping and other methods of conserving water shall be strongly encouraged.
3. Backdrop landscaping with heavy complements of trees, native or drought resistant shrubs sufficient to reduce erosion and present a natural, undisturbed appearance shall be provided.
4. Trees shall be planted wherever a hillside street adjoins a canyon, ravine or similar feature visible from adjoining parcels. Trees shall be planted to provide a canopy at street level and a dense screen when viewed from below.
5. Street trees shall be provided on collector streets at the rate of one fifteen-gallon tree (minimum) for each twenty lineal feet of street. Trees may be clustered, and when larger trees are provided, the number may be reduced. Trees may be clustered to give a natural appearance. Species shall be varied where trees are not in formal rows. (Ord. 853 § 2, 1993)