Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make changes to my approved landscape plan?

You can make substitutions of plant materials of the same size and in the same category, such as:

large evergreen shrubs
replacement trees
large canopy trees
Large non-canopy trees

Changes in location of plant materials, design standards, tree or shrub count, removing protected trees to remain, or changing grade or paving under or near dripline of existing protected trees to remain requires a landscape addendum. You must submit new landscape plans for review. Contact your Arborist for details.

When is landscaping required?

Landscaping is required on a lot that within a 2-year period does one of the following:
increases the number of stories in a building on the lot
      (any new structure on a vacant lot)
increases by more than 35% or 10,000 square feet, whichever is less, the combined floor areas of all building on the lot
increases the nonpermeable coverage on the lot by more than 2,000 square feet.

Single family or duplex uses established after May 29, 1994. See Residential Landscape.

Can street trees count as site trees?

Street trees can count as site trees if they are located on the subject property.

When does required landscape have to be completed?

Prior to the issuance of a final certificate of occupancy.

Is the landscape requirement the same for the whole city?

No. It depends on your zoning district.

Does my landscape contractor have to be registered or licensed?

No.

Do I need to have my landscape inspected?

If the landscape is required as a part of a building permit, planned development, specific use permit, certificate of occupancy, or board of adjustment case, yes, it must be inspected.
If the landscape work you are doing is completely voluntary and not a part of any city requirement, it does not need to be inspected. See Quick Tips for a Successful Landscape Inspection.

Why do I have to take the burlap off the top of the root ball?

Studies have shown that most burlap is treated for water repellency. In many cases, the water from automatic spray sprinklers does not get into the root ball because the burlap is repelling it. Also, studies have shown that burlap actually wicks moisture from the rootball causing the root ball to dry out. Additionally, burlap does not degrade rapidly and can cause the girdling of the tree’s roots and/or trunk. It is better for the health of the tree to remove the burlap.