A landscape plan prepared by a licensed Landscape Architect, licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Architects, or other qualified individual, shall be submitted with any plan for development.

All portions of the property not utilized by buildings or paved surfaces shall be landscaped to the greatest extent feasible utilizing combinations such as landscaped fencing, shrubbery, lawn areas, ground cover, existing vegetation, and the planting of coniferous and/or deciduous trees native to the area in order to maintain or reestablish the vegetation in the area and lessen the visual impact of the structures and paved areas.

Plants and other landscaping materials shall be selected in terms of aesthetic and functional considerations. The landscape design shall create visual diversity and contrast through variation in size, shape, texture, and color. The selection of plants in terms of susceptibility to disease and insect damage, wind and ice damage, habitat (wet-site, drought, sun and shade tolerance), soil conditions, growth rate, longevity, root pattern, maintenance requirements, etc. shall be considered. Consideration shall be given to accenting site entrances and unique areas with special landscaping treatment. Flowerbed displays are encouraged.

Landscaping shall be designed to achieve a thorough integration of the various elements of site design, including building and parking placement and natural features.

Landscaping within sight triangles shall not exceed a mature height of 30 inches. Shade trees shall be pruned up to an eight-foot branching height above grade.

The use of indigenous/native and/or noninvasive plant material is to be encouraged to establish sustainable landscapes that blend with the natural environment, reduce the use of pesticides, and reduce irrigation.

No principal or accessory structure other than required public utilities or driveways as regulated herein, and no off-street parking or loading area shall be permitted within any buffer zone.

No access aisles or driveways, other than as may be permitted be the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment under site plan review, shall be permitted within a buffer area.

Irrigation of all open space/planted areas shall be provided, except where areas of naturalized riparian vegetation are proposed. Drip irrigation is encouraged where practicable.

Existing vegetation will be preserved where practicable.