A.   This Article creates uniform landscape, screening and tree preservation standards for development of property in Wood Dale and review of plans therefor, to ensure that the City remains attractive, safe and comfortable. These landscape regulations are established to:

   B.   Promote, protect and preserve the general health and safety of the people of Wood Dale and, support aesthetic compatibility among land uses within the City;

   C.   Reduce soil erosion and stormwater runoff, provide oxygen regeneration to enhance air quality, and minimize the effects of urban heat islands;

   D.   Minimize any harmful effects of noise, dust, debris, motor exhaust, headlight glare, artificial light intrusions, objectionable sights or activities, or similar adverse impacts conducted or created by nearby land use;

   E.   Safeguard the environmental quality and aesthetic character of Wood Dale by limiting removal and ensuring replacement of trees upon private property;

   F.   Preserve existing vegetation and topographical features by limiting unnecessary clearing and modification of land, encouraging retention of existing mature trees, and requiring replacement of indigenous trees with approved species; and

   G.   Encourage energy efficiency in the City. (Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022)

   A.   Existing Trees: Existing trees shall be maintained on properties, to the extent feasible, through their integration into the site and landscape planning for a proposed development. Trees infested, incurably diseased, weakened by age, storm, fire, or other injury may be removed consistent with established good forestry practices and the regulations of the City Code.

   B.   Construction Requirements: During any construction undertaken within the City, trees shall be protected as specified in this Article and other requirements of the City Code.

      1.   Grading and Construction Equipment: Grading and construction equipment shall be forbidden from encroaching within the drip line of a tree.

      2.   Material Detrimental To Trees: Crushed limestone hydrocarbons and other material detrimental to trees shall not be stored or dumped within the drip line of any tree nor at any higher location where drainage toward the tree could conceivably affect the health of the tree.

      3.   Toxic Chemicals and Other Injurious Substances: Toxic chemicals, gasoline, oil and other injurious substances shall not be stored or allowed to seep, drain or empty within one hundred feet (100') of the drip line of protected trees.

      4.   Snow Fencing: Snow fencing shall be temporarily installed at the periphery of the tree’s drip line.

      5.   Tree Trunks and Branches: Tree trunks and branches shall be protected when construction must occur within a tree drip line.

      6.   Grade Changes: No grade changes shall be allowed under drip line of any trees designated for preservation.

      7.   Root Pruning/Thinning: To improve the survival rate of trees, root pruning and/or thinning should be performed in accordance with the latest edition of the American National Standards Institute for Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management- Standard Practices Pruning (ANSI A300 part 1).

      8.   Underground Utility Lines: Any underground utility line approved by the City for installation within five feet (5') of the trunk of a tree, or within the drip line of said tree, shall be installed by manual auguring unless another installation method shown to be safe for said tree is approved by the Zoning Administrator. (Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022)

Removal and replacement of trees shall be regulated by the following requirements of this Subsection (17.603 Tree Removal and Replacement) and the City Code; except that the requirements of this Subsection (17.603 Tree Removal and Replacement) shall not apply to tree removal on properties having a single-family, two-family, duplex, townhouse or any residential dwellings with a separate means of egress located thereon.

   A.   Tree Removal Permit Required:

      1.   No tree having a diameter at breast height (dbh) of six inches (6") or greater may be removed without having first obtained a Tree Removal Permit, or other comparable action, as approved by the Development Administrator.

      2.   When tree removal is required by any Development requiring submission of a Landscape Plan, Tree Preservation and Removal Plan, Site Plan, or Subdivision Plan, such plan shall constitute a Tree Removal Permit, provided the Development Administrator determines that all required information to constitute a complete submittal has been provided.

   B.   Tree Preservation and Removal Plan Required: A Tree Preservation and Removal Plan shall be required for any parcel of land involving the construction of any new building(s) or structure(s) or other site improvements, or the removal of a tree having a dbh of six inches (6") or greater. All Tree Preservation and Removal Plans shall include the following:

      1.   A tree survey identifying the following:

         a.   Location of on-site and adjacent right-of-way trees.

         b.   General description of the tree(s), including but not limited to tree size (measured as dbh), species type, and condition of tree.

         c.   Identification of trees designated for removal, preservation and/or transplanting.

      2.   A written statement indicating the reason for removal of the tree(s). A report from a licensed Illinois arborist may be requested by the Development Administrator to confirm the need for tree removal.

      3.   Details, specifications and/or technical information of materials or procedures to be used to preserve, protect and/or transplant trees.

   C.   Landscape Plan Required:

      1.   Landscape Plan Required: A Landscape Plan shall be required to receive a Tree Removal Permit when five (5) or more replacement trees are required by this Article.

      2.   Information: In addition to being prepared in accordance with applicable provisions of Section 17.606: Landscape Plans of this Article, the Landscape Plan shall include the following:

         a.   Identify each existing tree designated to remain.

         b.   Identify each existing tree designated for removal.

         c.   Indicate the location, species, and size (caliper) or height of each replacement tree. Each replacement tree shall be labeled with letter “R”.

      3.   No replacement tree shall be used to satisfy the requirements for tree planting in the public right-of-way or in parking lots; except when those are the trees that must be replaced.

   D.   Removal of Trees to be Preserved: Removal of trees designated for preservation and/or transplanting shall only be allowed by amending the Tree Preservation and Removal Plan or Landscape Plan.

   E.   Fee In-Lieu: It may be impractical to plant the required number of replacement trees on the same zoning lot due to space limitations or the density of existing trees. Such determination may be made by the Development Administrator based on evidence provided by the applicant. If such is found to be the case the City may allow the payment of a fee in-lieu for each replacement tree not planted on the subject property. Said fee shall be as specified in the City of Wood Dale Master Fee Schedule. The collected fee in-lieu shall be used to plant trees on public property at the City’s discretion.

   F.   Tree Replacement Required: Any tree that is 1) intended to be removed, 2) unintentionally removed or 3) damaged during construction shall be replaced as follows:

      1.   Trees Designated for Removal: In the event that a tree is designated for removal on the Tree Preservation and Removal Plan or Landscape Plan, such tree shall be replaced with new trees in accordance with the following schedule. On a vacant lot in a residential zoning district, the maximum number of trees to be provided as replacement shall not exceed five (5) trees.

 

 

         a.   Trees Designated for Preservation: In the event that a tree designated for preservation is destroyed, damaged, or removed during the construction process, the following shall apply:

         Each tree shall be replaced with new trees in accordance with the following schedule:

 

 

      2.   For each tree designated for preservation that is destroyed, damaged, or removed, the permit applicant shall be subject to a fine as specified in the City of Wood Dale Master Fee Schedule.

      3.   Prohibited or Nuisance Trees: When a tree designated for removal is one of the species on the list of prohibited trees as maintained by the City in accordance with Section 6.503B of the City Code or when a tree is declared a nuisance tree, each such tree shall not require replacement.

      4.   Exception:

         a.   A tree designated as dead or diseased on a Tree Preservation and Removal Plan or Tree Removal Permit shall not require replacement.

         b.   Existing trees designated for removal as part of development that will be replaced “like for like” by trees that required to meet standards of this Article are not subject to this Section 17.603.F Trees Replacement Required (for example: if a parking lot landscape islands containing two shade trees is removed during redevelopment and replaced with a new landscape island to include two new shade trees as required by this Article, then those existing shade trees that were removed are not subject to replacement requirements).

      5.   Replacement Tree Requirements:

         a.   All replacement shade trees shall have a minimum caliper of three inches (3.0").

         b.   All replacement coniferous trees shall have a minimum height of 6 feet (6').

         c.   Replacement trees may not include any tree on the list of prohibited trees in accordance with Section 6.503B of the City Code.

         d.   A variety of tree species are encouraged to promote a diverse tree canopy and minimize the impact from disease and infestation, thus when twenty (20) or more replacement trees are required no more than twenty percent (20%) of the replacement trees shall be of one species type.

         e.   A maximum of twenty percent (20%) of replacement trees may be coniferous trees.

   G.   Failure To Comply: Should tree preservation precautions specified in the Tree Preservation and Removal Plan not be adequately undertaken before and maintained during construction, the land development permit for the parcel shall not be issued or, if previously issued, shall be revoked until such time as these precautions have been satisfied. The applicant/property owner shall be placed on a future Administrative Adjudication Docket for an administrative hearing and potential citation(s).

   H.   Applicability: The provisions of this Section 17.603 Tree Removal and Replacement, do not apply to trees on public property.

(Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022; amd. Ord. O-24-032, 10-3-2024; Ord. O-25-011, 3-20-2025)

Landscaping and screening shall be provided in the locations and manner in keeping with the following:

   A.   General Requirements for Landscaping and Screening:

      1.   Landscape Plan Required: A Landscape Plan prepared in accordance with the standards set forth in this Article shall be required for any land development requiring Site Plan Review, and prepared in keeping with Section 17.606: Landscape Plans, of this Article.

      2.   Minimum Size: Minimum sizes for plant materials at time of installation for all landscape areas shall be as follows:

         a.   Deciduous trees shall be a minimum caliper of three inches (3.0") when installed. Dwarf varieties, when authorized by the Development Administrator due to space limitations, shall be a minimum caliper of two inches (2").

         b.   Coniferous trees shall be a minimum six feet (6') in height when installed.

         c.   Deciduous shrubs (other than dwarf varieties) shall be a minimum of three feet (3') in height at time of installation if used as a perimeter screen planting, and thirty inches (30") in height for all other installations. Dwarf varieties and plants normally measured by spread shall be a minimum of twenty-four inches (24") in height/spread.

         d.   Ground cover shall be designed, planted and spaced so that complete coverage can be obtained within two (2) years after date of installation.

         e.   Ornamental trees may be used, where appropriate in smaller planting areas, and shall have a minimum caliper of two inches (2") or be of a clump form at a minimum height of five feet (5').

      3.   Intersection Visibility: Landscaping must be designed and installed to minimize potential obstruction of critical sightlines. Landscape plantings shall not encroach into the Sight Triangle area as defined in Section 17.302.E. Trees are allowed in Sight Triangles provided the lowest branching begins not less than eight feet (8') above the pavement.

      4.   Artificial Plants: No artificial plants of any type shall be used to satisfy any requirements of this Article.

      5.   Prohibited Trees: Trees found on the list of prohibited trees as maintained by the City’s Public Works Director shall not be used to satisfy the requirements of this Article.

   B.   Parking Lot Landscaping Requirements: In addition to the general design criteria prescribed in Section C: Landscape Plan Design Criteria, all Vehicle Use Areas designed with twenty (20) or more parking spaces shall be landscaped in accordance with the provisions of this Section 17.606.4.B. Final Parking Lot Landscaping plans shall be reviewed and approved as part of the Site Plan Review Process outlined in Article II of the Chapter.

      1.    Interior Parking Lot Landscaping Areas:

         a.   The following percentage of the interior portion of all Vehicular Use Areas shall be improved with landscaping:

            (1)   5,000 square feet or less      0%

            (2)   5,001 to 40,000 square feet   5%

            (3)   40,000 square feet or greater   8%

         b.   The required interior landscaping may include areas dedicated to tree planting islands and those portions of the lot that are landscaped with live ground cover and additional landscaping that is not dedicated to otherwise required site perimeter landscaping.

         c.   Landscape Parking Island Design: Each landscape island, unless otherwise indicated, shall be constructed per the following standards:

            (1)    A continuous concrete barrier curb having a minimum width of seven feet (7'), measured back of curb to back of curb.

            (2)   A depth equal to the adjoining two parking spaces.

            (3)   Two (2) shade trees per landscape island used to break up a double row of parking per Subsection d below.

            (4)   An adequate number and selection of shrubs, flowers, ground covers, sod and mulch to cover the ground of the parking island (NOTE: Landscaping required under this Subsection may be substituted with bioswales and biofilter strips).

            (5)   Any planted shrubs shall not exceed a mature height of thirty inches (30") above the adjoining pavement.

            (6)   Any tree branches maintained at a height less than six feet (6') above the adjoining pavement.

            (7)   Utilities and mechanical equipment such as streetlights or fire hydrants shall not be located in parking islands unless otherwise approved by the Development Administrator due to a hardship.

         d.   Minimum Aisle Landscape Parking Island Location: A landscaped island shall be provided at the end of each parking row.

Figure 6-1 Minimum Aisle Landscape Parking Islands:

         e.   Additional Landscape Parking Island Location: In addition to Minimum Aisle Landscape Parking Islands described in Subsection d above, one or more of the following alternatives shall be used to divide each Double Row of parking having twenty (20) spaces or more where a run of twenty (20) or more parking spaces exist:

            (1)   Parking Space Landscape Islands: One Landscape Island may be located so as to break up a run of twenty (20) parking spaces in the Double Row of parking; or

Figure 6-2: Parking Space Landscape Islands

            (2)   Landscape Island Diamond: One Landscape Island Diamond positioned at the front corner of a parking space, may be provided for each ten (10) parking spaces in a Double Row of parking. Landscape Island Diamonds shall be located so as to break up a run of ten (10) parking spaces in the Double Row of parking. Each Landscape Island Diamond shall be protected by a continuous concrete barrier curb and having minimum dimensions of six and one-half feet (6.5') square, measured back of curb to back of curb and contain one shade tree planted in a Structural Soil (a mix of soil and crushed gravel designed to support survival of trees planted in small area) as approved by the Development Administrator; or

Figure 6-3: Landscape Island Diamonds

            (3)   Mid Row Landscape Island: A continuous Mid Row Landscape Island protected by a continuous concrete barrier curb and having a minimum depth of seven feet (7'), measured back of curb to back of curb, may be provided between parking rows. A Mid Row Landscape Island may not be used in parking rows along the perimeter of a parking lot. Each Mid Row Landscape Island shall contain one shade tree for each twenty (20) parking spaces in the parking row. A Mid Row Landscape Island may include notches as may be needed to facilitate use of the landscape area for stormwater detention and filtration, and gaps as needed to meet the requirements of Subsection f. below.

Figure 6-4: Mid Row Landscape Island

         f.   Pedestrian Access:

            (1)   All parking lots with two or more double-loaded rows must provide internal pedestrian walkways within the Vehicle Access Area and outside of the parking row or drive aisle.

               (A)   The walkway must be a minimum of five (5) feet in width.

               (B)   One walkway is required for every two double loaded aisles.

               (C)   The walkway must be located to serve the maximum number of parking stalls.

               (D)   All walkways must meet all ADA accessibility requirements.

            (2)   All parking lots must include walkways that provide direct connections to building entrances from the spaces furthest from the entrance. At least one walkway must provide a direct connection between the building entrances and the adjacent public rights-of-way and associated sidewalk.

            (3)   All pedestrian walkways must be clearly marked with high-visibility striping, through the use of alternative materials, such as pavers. Where walkways cross a drive aisle, the walkway must have a continuous surface treatment across the drive aisle.

      2.   Parking Lot Perimeter Landscaping:

         a.   Front and Corner Side Yards:

            (1)   Where a parking lot is located in or adjacent to a front or corner side yard , landscaping shall be provided as follows:

               (A)   Continuous landscaping shall be provided across one hundred percent (100%) of the parking lot frontage to a minimum height of three feet (3').

               (B)   Such landscaping shall consist of any combination of berms, shade and ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting material.

               (C)   The intent of this requirement is to screen parking lots, vehicles and vehicle headlights from rights of way and adjacent properties.

         b.   Rear and Side Yards:

            (1)   Residential: Where a parking lot is located in a rear or side yard adjacent a residential zoning district, landscaping shall be provided as follows:

               (A)   Screening between the parking lot and the residential property line shall be a minimum of six feet (6') in height or a solid 6-foot wooden fence.

               (B)   Shade trees shall be provided at the equivalent of one for each fifty (50) linear feet, or fraction thereof, of parking lot frontage and shall not be planted more than forty feet (40') apart.

               (C)   Other planting material, including ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting materials shall be provided in a continuous row covering one hundred percent (100%) of the frontage of the parking lot adjacent the residential lot(s).

               (D)   Unless occupied by planting beds, all side and rear yard perimeter landscaping area shall be sodded or seeded.

            (2)   Nonresidential: Where a parking lot is located in a rear or side yard adjacent a nonresidential property; landscaping shall be provided as follows:

               (A)   Landscaping shall be provided Across at least fifty percent (50%) of that portion of the parking lot abutting the property line to a minimum height of three feet (3').

               (B)   Such landscaping shall consist of any combination of berms, shade and ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting materials.

               (C)   Plantings may be placed in clusters, containing not less than seven (7) shrubs per cluster, spaced at intervals of approximately thirty-five feet (35') along the property line.

         c.   Alley Exemption: Where a nonresidential property is separated from an abutting residential property by an ally providing access to parking, the Development Administrator may provide relief from this Section 17.604.B.2. In granting such relief, the Development Administrator shall consider the extent to which the intent of this Article can be met by providing other forms of landscaping and screening.

         d.   Substitution: Landscaping required under this Section 17.604 may be substituted with bioswales and biofilter strips providing equivalent or greater screening impact, as determined by the Development Administrator.

   C.   Foundation Landscaping Requirements: In addition to the general design criteria prescribed in Section 17.606.C: Landscape Plan Design Criteria, the following requirements shall also apply to foundation landscaping:

      1.   Setback: A landscaping area not less than five feet (5') in width shall be located around the perimeter of all buildings, except where impractical, i.e., loading dock areas, entryways, etc.

      2.   Coverage: Required foundation landscaping areas shall remain open and free of all paving except where walks to buildings and other similar paving is required.

      3.   Landscaping Materials: Foundation landscaping consists of shade and ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting materials. Particular attention shall be paid toward the majority of evergreen screening mechanical equipment and loading docks; softening large expanses of building walls; and accenting entrances and architectural features of the building.

   D.   Perimeter Landscaping Requirements: In addition to the general design criteria prescribed in Section 17.606.C: Landscape Plan Design Criteria, all nonresidential and multiple-family development shall provide perimeter landscaping as prescribed. Parking lots located on the perimeter of a lot shall comply with the requirements of Section 17.604.B.2: Parking Lot Perimeter Landscaping of this Article.

      1.   Nonresidential Property Abutting Nonresidential Property: Where nonresidential property abuts property in a business, office or industrial district, landscaping shall be provided as follows:

         a.   Shade trees shall be provided at the equivalent of one for each seventy-five feet (75'), or fraction thereof, of frontage along the abutting property line. Such trees shall be planted no more than forty feet (40') apart and may be clustered or spaced linearly as determined appropriate.

         b.   Other landscaping materials, including berms, ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting materials shall be provided at locations along the abutting property line to further screen mechanical equipment, storage areas, large building expanses and other unsightly aspects of the site.

      2.   Nonresidential Property Abutting Residential Property: Where nonresidential property abuts property in a residential district, landscaping shall be provided as follows:

         a.   A solid screen six feet (6') in height shall be provided along the entire length of the abutting property line. Such screen shall consist of a solid wood fence, berms, trees, conifers, shrubbery, and/or other live planting materials, necessary to provide one hundred percent (100%) coverage.

         b.   Twenty percent (20%) of all screening materials provided shall be evergreen shrubs and trees.

         c.   Shade trees shall be provided at the equivalent of one for each seventy five feet (75'), or fraction thereof, of frontage along the abutting property line. Such trees shall not be planted more than forty feet (40') apart and may be clustered or spaced linearly as determined appropriate.

         d.   Alley Exemption: Where a nonresidential property is separated from an abutting residential property by an ally providing access to utilities, trash removal, deliveries, or other services, the Development Administrator may provide relief from this Section 17.604.D.2. In granting such relief, the Development Administrator shall consider the extent to which the intent of this Article can be met by providing other forms of landscaping and screening.

      3.   Multiple-Family Residential Property: Where multiple-family residential use abuts property in any zoning district, landscaping shall be provided as follows:

         a.   Shade trees shall be provided at the equivalent of not less than one for each seventy-five feet (75'), or fraction thereof, of frontage along the abutting property line. Such trees shall not be planted more than forty feet (40') apart and may be clustered or spaced linearly as appropriate.

         b.   Other landscaping materials, including berms, if possible, ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges, and/or other live planting materials shall be provided at intermittent locations across fifty percent (50%) of the abutting property line. Shrubs shall be placed in clusters containing at least seven (7) per cluster, spaced at intervals of approximately thirty-five feet (35') along the abutting property line.

   E.   Right-Of-Way Landscaping Requirements: In addition to the general design criteria prescribed in Section 17.606.C: Landscape Plan Design Criteria, the following requirements shall also apply to landscaping in rights-of-way:

      1.   Scope: Where a zoning lot abuts a dedicated public right-of-way, trees shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of this Article, the City of Wood Dale Engineering Design and Development Standards Manual and Section 6.504 of the City Code. One street tree shall be planted for every forty feet (40') of frontage, except as otherwise authorized by the Director of Public Works.

      2.   Street Trees: The City shall have the discretion to require trees be planted outside of the right-of-way if the parkway is too narrow or overhead or buried utilities may conflict with the growth of street trees.

   F.   Service Area Screening: Service areas, utilities, loading docks and any outdoor storage areas of nonresidential and multifamily residential properties shall be screened if visible from a public right of way or adjacent property. Screening shall be equally effective at all times of the year and meet the following standards as determined through the Site Plan Review process outlined in Article II: Administration and Enforcement.

      1.   Refuse collection areas shall be screened as required in Section 17.302.M.2: Trash Enclosures.

      2.   All utility equipment (meters, transformers, etc.) shall be provided with the majority of evergreen planting screens to mitigate unsightly views.

      3.   All service doors and loading areas on nonresidential property shall be concealed from view (at grade) by a majority evergreen landscape material.

      4.   Outdoor storage areas that exceed eight feet (8') in height shall be screened with landscaping equal to or exceeding the height of the materials to be stored, in addition to other requirements specified in this Chapter.

(Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022; amd. Ord. O-24-032, 10-3-2024; Ord. O-25-011, 3-20-2025)

   A.   Variations from Requirements of this Article: The City recognizes the variety of developments and site configurations may warrant flexibility in applying standards set forth in Section 17.602: Tree Preservation and Section 17.604: Landscaping and Screening of this Article. In instances where 1) unique site conditions, 2) visibility of businesses, 3) safe site access, and 4) limitations on availability of plant material create a practical difficulty in meeting the standards of these Sections, the Development Administrator may authorize deviations not more than twenty five percent (25%) from the requirements set forth in those subsections. Whenever such deviations are allowed or required from Sections 17.602 and 17.603, the Development Administrator shall find that the intent of this Article is met and the least amount of relief necessary shall be allowed. When a variation is granted, the applicant shall enter on the face of the landscape plan the reasons for allowing or requiring deviation from the requirements of the sections specified here.

   B.   Innovative Landscaping: Innovative landscaping treatments (such as Section 17.607 Best Management Practices described in this Article) are encouraged and shall be considered as an additional or alternative installation to the requirements of this Article. These planting treatments shall be submitted as part of the Landscape Plan and be considered as part of the Site Plan Review process specified in Article II: Administration and Enforcement.

   C.   Certificate of Occupancy: All required landscaping shall be installed prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, except in keeping with the following:

      1.   If weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the developer’s control prevent installation of all or portions of the landscape materials and all other requirements for the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy have been met, a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be issued.

      2.   In the case of a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy being issued for landscaping, a bond or a performance guarantee approved by the City Attorney to ensure completion of approved landscaping shall be filed with the Development Administrator. The amount of the performance guarantee and the required completion data shall be recommended by the Development Administrator based on current costs and set by the City. If such a bond or performance guarantee has already been submitted for the proposed landscape improvements, the City may permit the developer to extend the performance guarantee for an additional specified period of time.

      3.   A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy issued in regard to landscaping shall be valid only until the subsequent July 1st. At that time, 1) the required landscaping shall be installed, 2) an extension granted by the Development Administrator due to continuation of unique circumstances, or 3) the amount of the bond or performance guarantee shall be forfeit to the City. (Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022)

   A.   Landscape Plan Preparation: Any Landscape Plan submitted to meet the requirements of this Chapter shall be prepared by a Registered or Professional Landscape Architect. Others preparing such plans shall evidence to the Development Administrator equivalent experience or competencies to prepare a Landscape Plan that meets the regulations and design standards specified in this Article.

   B.   Information Required on Landscape Plans: All Landscape Plans submitted shall include the following:

      1.   Contact Information: The preparer’s contact information.

      2.   Base Information: Scale, north arrow, and date of preparation.

      3.   Site Improvements: The location of existing and proposed improvements; including, but not limited to, buildings, with entry and exit points identified; all utilities, lighting, walls, and fences, parking areas (spaces delineated, including handicapped spaces, curbs); contours; existing and proposed berms; existing (6 inch dbh and larger with drip line) and proposed plant material; paved surfaces; sign locations; public rights-of-way and easements, including street widths; refuse collection areas; property lines; and other exterior landscape amenities, such as bike paths, plazas, architectural paving, flagpoles, foundations, benches, and bicycle racks.

      4.   Planting Schedule: The planting schedule listing botanical names, common names, size or height, and quantity.

      5.   Ground Surfaces: The proposed treatment of all ground surfaces (such as ground covers, sod, seed and/or prairie).

      6.   Tree Plan: Tree Preservation and Removal Plan.

      7.   Technical Information: Samples, details, and/or photographs of materials to be used for light standards, benches, fences, walls, signage, safety lighting, and other site details.

      8.   Installation of Plant Materials: Plant materials of all types and species shall be installed in accordance with the most recent publication of the American Standard for Nursery Stock as approved by American National Standards Institute and issued as ANSI Z60.1.

      9.   Maintenance of Plant Material: A means of irrigating plant material shall be provided. Installation of an automatic underground sprinkling system is recommended.

      10.   Supporting Information: Drawings providing support information regarding landscape installation and maintenance: 1) irrigation plans, 2) grading and drainage plan (showing spot elevations and/or cross section,) and 3) methods to be used to protect plants and planted areas, (e.g., curbs, ties, walls).

      11.   Design / Character Information: Provide 1) elevations, 2) cross sections, 3) samples and/or photographs to indicate texture of exposed surfaces, landscape material, scale, color of exposed surfaces, and planting in relation to buildings.

      12.   The Development Administrator may waive the requirement for any of the submission materials in this Section 17.606.B upon request by the applicant and sufficient indication that such information is not relevant or necessary to adequately review the Landscape Plan.

   C.   Landscape Plan Design Criteria: The Landscape Plan shall evidence to the City that the following design criteria will be met.

      1.   Scale and Nature of Landscape Materials: The scale and nature of landscape material shall be appropriate to the site and the structures thereon.

      2.   Selection of Plant Material: Planting materials used in conformance with the provisions of this Article shall be of good quality and of a species normally grown in northeastern Illinois that is:

         a.   Capable of withstanding the extremes of individual site microclimates.

         b.   Selected for interest in its structure, texture, and color for its ultimate growth.

         c.   Harmonious to the design, and of good appearance.   

         d.   In conformance with the most recent publication of the American Standard for Nursery Stock as approved by American National Standards Institute and issued as ANSI Z60.1.

      3.   Planting Beds: Planting beds shall be mulched in their entirety with shredded bark or other similar organic material. Lava rock or large diameter (1½ inch diameter or larger) bark chips (“chunk bark”) are not acceptable. Gravel and stone mulches are not permitted, unless specifically approved in writing by the Development Administrator upon finding that other materials cannot survive in the location or create a safety hazard. Mulch beds shall be designed so that at time of planting they extend a minimum of two feet (2') beyond the center of a shrub.

      4.   Detention/Retention Basins and Ponds: Detention/retention basin and pond areas shall be planted. Such plantings shall include shade and ornamental trees, conifers, shrubbery, hedges and/or other live planting materials. Plants must be able to tolerate wet conditions if planted within the basin.

      5.   Energy Conservation:

         a.   Deciduous trees, shrubs and vines should dominate the south and west sides of buildings and plaza areas to provide shade during the summer and limited shade during winter.

         b.   Coniferous and other plant materials should be concentrated on the north side of buildings in a manner that dissipates the effect of winter winds.

         c.   Water Conservation: Wherever possible landscape designs and plant material that is indigenous and/or drought tolerant should be used to reduce the need for irrigation.

         d.   Berms: Earthen berms and existing topography shall, wherever practical, be incorporated into the landscape treatment of a site. Berms shall not exceed a maximum slope of four horizontal units to one vertical unit (4:1), except in parking islands, where the maximum slope shall not exceed two horizontal units to one vertical unit (2:1).

         e.   Topography: Where natural, existing topographic patterns contribute to the beauty and utility of a development, they shall be preserved and developed. Modification of topography may be allowed where it contributes to the aesthetic quality of the site.

         f.   Protection of Plant Material and/or People: In locations where plant materials may be susceptible to injury or cause personal injury, appropriate curbs, tree guards, or other devices shall be provided.

         g.   Areas Where Plant Material Will Not Prosper: In areas where general planting will not prosper, other materials such as fences, walls and pavings of wood, brick, stone, and cobbles shall be used. Carefully selected plant material shall be combined with such materials where possible.

         h.   Exterior Landscape Lighting: Lighting standards and fixtures when used to enhance the building design and the adjoining landscape shall be of a size and design compatible with the building and adjacent areas. Lighting shall be restrained in design, and excessive brightness and brilliant colors shall be avoided. Electrical service shall be underground.

         i.   Amenities: In business, office and industrial districts seating areas, paved areas, plant enclosures, benches, waste receptacles, lights, and other amenities shall be provided where appropriate.

         j.   Edging: Edging is recommended to separate grass areas from shrubs, ground cover and mulch and shall be a good quality steel, plastic, or weather resistant (redwood, cedar) or treated wood secured with stakes.

         k.   Ground Cover: All drainage swales and slopes having a slope of four vertical units to one horizontal unit (4:1) or greater shall be sodded. All other ground areas not covered by buildings, parking, sidewalks or other impervious surfaces, or occupied by planting beds shall be graded smooth with a minimum of six inches (6") of black dirt after compacting and removing stumps, rocks and other debris, and shall be seeded or sodded to prevent soil erosion and sedimentation of public drainage systems, creeks, streams, rivers and wetlands.

         l.   Flowerbeds: Flowerbeds are encouraged and shall be planted in masses in acceptable areas to create color, texture and visual interest.

   D.   Guidelines for Reviewing Landscape Plans: A Landscape Plan shall be approved if the following conditions are satisfied:

      1.   The use of shrubs, flowers, berms and ground cover are used appropriately to enhance the overall appearance and function of the site or open spaces on the site;

      2.   The planting of shade and ornamental and coniferous trees is used to define and enhance spaces on the site;

      3.   The use of planting material to effectively screen adjacent dwelling units, service areas, and parking areas;

      4.   The use of planting material to contribute to water conservation and energy efficiency;

      5.   The use of planting material seasonal color, texture, size and form to create seasonal and visual interest and appeal in the community;

      6.   The composition, number, location, species of landscape material, berms, fences and other features, and supporting documentation are provided as required by this Article. (Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022)

Best Management Practices (BMPs), including those described in this Section 17.607, are encouraged in developments through appropriate application of landscape design, site construction and landscape maintenance practices. Use of BMPs may be used to off-set a portion of stormwater management requirements if, at the sole discretion of the City Engineer, the applicant provides evidence by a licensed engineer that such offsets are feasible and the applicant provides a plan for ongoing maintenance and sufficiency of such facilities. Should the applicant or subsequent owners fail to maintain BMPs as effective stormwater management elements, the City Engineer or Public Works Director, at their sole discretion, may require repair of such BMPs or replacement with conventional stormwater management systems as may be needed to meet the intent and standards of the City Code.

   A.   Sustainable Development Standards. Green design considers the environment and site during design, construction, operations and maintenance. In evaluating site plans with BMPs in the Site Plan Review process spelled out in Article II: Administration and Enforcement, the City shall consider all relevant engineering and design standards as well as the standards of this Section shall be evaluated in regard to sustainable building design, site planning, streetscape/landscape design and infrastructure engineering. The following considerations should be included in site and building design and construction when incorporating BMPs:

      1.   Optimize building orientation for heat gain, solar shading, daylighting and natural ventilation.

      2.   Design landscape, hardscape and building roofs to create comfortable micro-climates and reduce heat island effects.

      3.   Select native landscape materials and reuse rainwater and graywater where feasible and allowed by Code to reduce or eliminate the need for potable water in the irrigation of landscape.

      4.   Increase water efficiency through the use of high-efficiency systems and fixtures or through rainwater and graywater reuse as allowed by Code to decrease use of the City’s water supply and wastewater system.

      5.   Design all sites and buildings to be “transit-supportive” to facilitate access to existing and future transit services.

      6.   Use sustainable, rapidly renewable or recycled building materials.

      7.   Use building materials manufactured within the region.

      8.   Design and select lighting and equipment for efficient energy use.

      9.   Minimize off-site light pollution.

      10.   Create healthy, comfortable indoor environments through increased natural lighting, control of thermal systems, reduced VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and improved indoor air-quality and ventilation.

      11.   Maximize on-site stormwater management through landscaping and permeable pavement as well as shared facilities.

      12.   Maintain or reduce the peak stormwater discharge rate and quantity.

      13.   Enact plans to control erosion, sedimentation and dust during construction.

      14.   Conduct commissioning of building energy systems to ensure desired performance.

      15.   Include on-site renewable energy sources (such as solar, wind, geothermal) where feasible.

      16.   Reduce or eliminate heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment that emits compounds that contribute to ozone depletion and climate change.

      17.   Provide for an easily accessible, dedicated area for the collection and storage of materials for recycling

      18.   Incorporate universal design into building plans where feasible.

   B.   Permeable Pavement and Pavers: Permeable pavement and pavers are an alternative method of hard surface that allows stormwater runoff to filter through voids material. The use of this porous material can help promote the natural cleaning and infiltration of water, instead of allowing it to wash into streets and down storm drains. Use of this material may be allowed in designated drive or path areas.

   C.   Bioswales or Retention Ponds: Bioswales and Retention ponds are vegetated landscaped depressions that capture, treat, and slow down stormwater runoff. They provide a more aesthetically pleasing environment than the typical required concrete stormwater fixtures.

   D.    Parking Lot Drainage: Stormwater drainage is an integral component in the design of parking lots. Stormwater may be infiltrated into the parking lot planting areas and then drained to a specified area. This approach can clean, detail, and direct stormwater.

   E.   Green Roofs: Green roofs incorporate plants into the roofing system to reduce pervious surfaces and stormwater runoff. These systems can serve as short term stormwater management to reduce, delay, and clean stormwater runoff from a site. (Ord. O-22-017, 5-19-2022)