Title
Discussion on Landscaping Regulations
Body
Summary:
Discussion on changes to the landscaping regulations.
Background:
Historically, there have been two main components of the landscaping/greenspace requirements in the City of Brookings. For multi-family uses, the greenspace requirements was based upon 300 square feet per unit regardless of the number of bedrooms within each unit as well as tree plantings based upon the amount of surfacing occurring on the lot. Commercial and industrial uses had similar tree planting requirements. The Planning Commission discussed landscaping/greenspace requirements during the April Planning Commission meeting and provided staff with the following guidance for drafting changes to the landscaping regulations:
* Landscaping should add value through aesthetic improvements to the property.
* Landscaping with greenspace should help control density.
* Drainage improvements are acceptable within the yard requirements.
* Plant life and vegetation is viewed as a higher priority than square footage (quality vs. quantity).
Utilizing the guidance from the Planning Commission, staff drafted landscaping regulations with similarities to the current surface based requirements.
The most significant change in the greenspace requirements is the removal of the 300 square feet per unit for multi-family uses. While this reduction appears to be a significant change, the reality is often the additional greenspace was not usable greenspace in the aspect of it was added to the setbacks along the perimeter of the property and accounted for a few additional feet in width. In addition, drainage improvements qualify as meeting the greenspace requirement. If this change is acceptable, the greenspace requirement becomes the setbacks for the particular district in which it is located. To ensure the greenspace remains open and free of obstructions, staff is recommending parking, storage, merchandise and accessory structures are not allowed wit...
Click here for full text