Development Landscape Ordinance FAQs

(Click HERE to view Development Landscape Ordinance)

How does the ordinance impact the average citizen?

It provides green buffers between all developed parcels, particularly where zoning differs from one parcel to another. It prevents huge unbroken expanses of solid surface parking lots. It helps to maintain Statesville's tree-lined streets, cleanse the air that we breathe, beautify our city, help preserve our urban forest and increase property values.

Who does it apply to?

The development landscape ordinance applies to all property owners/developers proposing new or expanded developments (except for: cases involving no change in existing use or number of parking spaces, single-family and two-family residences on single lots, development within the Central Business District [within Front, Meeting, Water & Tradd Streets] and appealed hardship cases)

How does it help to preserve existing trees?

A tree credit point system for existing trees encourages developers to preserve trees rather than replace them at extra cost.

How does the Development Landscape Ordinance basically differ from what was in force prior to 2001?

It replaces two insufficient ordinances that simply required one tree (with no mature size requirements) for every twelve parking spaces and a very limited amount of buffer plantings. Now, before obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy, a developer must:

• submit a tree survey to identify existing trees
• submit and secure approval for a landscape site plan
• obtain a grading permit prior to any land disturbance
• provide additional plant material over what was previously required by code
• install plants according to installation standards (or provide a surety bond to do so within a required period of time)

What are some of the planting requirements?

Requirements are based on a per-plant point system that requires landscaping in the street yard (next to the right-of-way), buffer yards (that abut adjoining properties) and parking lots. Residential subdivisions of 10 or more homes require street yard trees and a minimum number of yard trees per lot. Minimums include:

• street yards - a minimum 8' wide planting area parallel to a public street
• buffer yards - landscaping materials between adjacent properties along the periphery of properties (varying in width from 8' to 30' depending on adjacent zoning classifications)
• parking lots - no parking space shall be more than 60' from a parking lot tree (periphery trees excluded)

How do developers know what type of tree to plant?

The city arborist has compiled a list of site-appropriate trees and is available for consultation.

What if plantings die?

Planting standards help insure a good start. However, if a planting dies, any current or future property owner is responsible for replacing deceased plant material required by the ordinance.

Is it true that the ordinance prohibits tree topping?

Yes. Topping of trees is prohibited. Pruning shall only be completed in accordance with current standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).