Supplementary landscaping and illumination requirements
(a) Landscaping and buffer areas. Unless the zoning board of review authorizes otherwise, all areas of multifamily and nonresidential properties which are not used for structures, off-street parking and loading, permitted outdoor storage, sidewalks or similar purposes, and which are not kept in their natural state, shall be landscaped with grass, shrubs, trees, and other ground cover so as to minimize erosion and stormwater runoff.
Landscaping plans and specifications must be included in all applications for site plan review.
Landscaped buffer areas at least ten feet wide shall be provided along all property lines of multifamily and nonresidential uses which abut residential zones. The vegetation in such landscaped areas shall include evergreens which are at least five feet tall when planted, and/or other plantings of sufficient type, height, spacing, and arrangement to screen the multifamily or nonresidential use. Where existing topography and/or landscaping or vegetation adequately screens a multifamily or nonresidential use from abutting residential uses, the zoning board of review may modify the requirements for landscaped buffer areas. Where necessary, it also may allow the use of a suitable wall, earth berm, or fence as a substitute for some or all of the required buffer area.
All required trees, shrubbery, and other plantings shall be trimmed, maintained in good condition, and, when necessary, replaced.
(b) Illumination. All exterior illumination shall be shielded from the view of surrounding properties and streets, and must be approved by the zoning board of review.