Firebaugh City Zoning Code

These regulations apply to all new construction involving commercial, industrial, public, institutional and multiple-family residential development. Landscape areas containing over 2,500 square feet must comply with the provisions of the Model Water Efficient Landscape standards (see § 25-43.7). Projects shall also incorporate recommendations from the Design Guidelines in each particular zone district, as applicable.

These regulations apply to additions to applicable structures which exceed 40% of the gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less. All additions constructed after the date of adoption of this Ordinance will accumulate to determine eligibility under this requirement.

These regulations shall apply when a previously unpaved parking area is paved.

Vegetative matter shall cover 75% of the required landscaped area. Exceptions to this requirement, in unusual situations, may be approved by the Zoning Administrator on a case-by-case basis.

All planters located adjacent to driveways, loading areas, parking lots and sidewalks shall be protected along the parking lot side with curbs or wheel stops. Alternative treatments may be considered.

Planters containing trees shall be not less than four feet by four feet (inside dimension). All other planters shall be not less than two feet (inside dimension) in width.

Existing trees shall be evaluated as to their suitability for retention.

Existing trees shall be protected by planters with a minimum radius of the drip line of the tree or 50% of drip line plus modifications to paved area allowing for aeration and water penetration. Alternative treatments will be considered.

All landscaped areas shall be provided with an "in the ground" or drip irrigation system.

A fence or wall when used for required screening shall be 75% opaque.

When wood, masonry, or metal are used for fencing or screening, plants are required every five feet along the barrier.

Trash enclosures shall be screened and designed as approved by the City.

One tree shall be planted at least every 35 feet along a public right-of-way. The maximum spacing between trees shall be equal to the mature spread of the trees selected. Special consideration may be given to variety and spacing of trees as they relate to proposed signing of the property.

Trees shall be equivalent to fifteen-gallon can size or larger when planted.

Shrubs shall be equivalent to one-gallon can size or larger when planted.

All open industrial storage areas shall be screened from all public rights-of-way and adjacent commercial or residential properties to a height of six feet. Screening may be modified or waived for security reasons with the concurrence of the Planning Director and the Police Chief.

Landscape designs which do not meet the specific regulations of this chapter may be approved by the Zoning Administrator if in his opinion the design meets the intent and purpose of this § 25-43 as set forth in § 25-43.1.

Landscaping materials shall be contained so as not to spill into the public right-of-way.

Landscaping shall be installed as approved by the City.

Landscaping shall be maintained in a healthy and attractive condition.