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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES PC 2004 0460 0504RESOLUTION NO. PC- 2004 -460 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPTION OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES WHEREAS, the City Council has established a goal of developing a policy document addressing Landscape and Irrigation system design for projects on both public and private property; and WHEREAS, the adoption of Landscape Design Standards and Guidelines will serve both project applicants as well as City staff responsible for processing project applications by outlining submittal requirements, applicable standards, and processing procedures; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, after discussion of the matter at its regular meeting of April 6, 2004, determined that the draft Landscape Design Standards and Guidelines presented by the Community Development Department would support the objectives desired by the City Council; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission concurs with the Community Development Director's determination that this project is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act by the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment. NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MOORPARK, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Commission of the City of Moorpark recommends to the City Council the adoption of the Landscape Design Standards and Guidelines, attached hereto as Exhibit A. SECTION 2. CERTIFICATION OF ADOPTION: The Community Development Director shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and shall cause a certified resolution to be filed in the book of original resolutions. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 2 The action of the foregoing direction was approved by the following vote: AYES: Commissioners DiCecco, Landis, Peskay, Vice Chair Lauletta and Chair Pozza NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: PASSED, AND ADOPTED this 4th day of May, 2004. 4, Scott PoZZa, C Val r ATTEST: Barry, /i�. Hoge C mm ty De e opment Director Exhibit A - Draft Landscape Design Standards and Guidelines Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 3 LANDSCAPE DESIGN STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES CITY OF MOORPARK Community Development Department 799 Moorpark Avenue Moorpark, CA 93021 805 - 517 -6224 Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1 Water Conservation 1.2 Ecological Viability 1.3 Development of Community Character 1.4 Public Access and Enjoyment 1.5 Fire Mitigation SECTION 2 PROCESSING PROCEDURES 2.1 Pre - Submittal Meeting 2.2 Conceptual Landscape Package Submittal 2.3 Conceptual Plan Review and Approval 2.4 Guarantee /Surety and Exoneration of Surety 2.5 Installation and Inspection 2.6 Enforcement SECTION 3 PLAN SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS 3.1 Plan Check Fees 3.2 General Plan Preparation Requirements 3.3 Planting Plan Requirements 3.4 Soils Analysis 3.5 Irrigation Plan Requirements 3.6 Maintenance Program SECTION 4 INSTALLATION VERIFICATION 4.1 Approved Plans /Conditions 4.2 Landscape Condition Compliance Review 4.3 Maintenance Program SECTION 5 INSTALLATION ENFORCEMENT SECTION 6 WATER BUDGET AND PROJECTED WATER USE CALCULATIONS SECTION 7 PUBLIC RIGHT -OF -WAY 7.1 Parkways and Streetscapes 7.2 Median Island Planting Requirements SECTION 8 COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MULTI - FAMILY PROJECTS SECTION 9 UTILITIES SECTION 10 PARKING AREAS SECTION 11 EROSION CONTROL AND NATURAL AREAS SECTION 12 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS 12.1 Water Efficient Model Home Requirement 12.2 Private Front Yards 12.3 Street Trees 12.4 Streetscape Concept 12.5 Wall and Fencing Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 5 ATTACHMENTS: I LANDSCAPE SUBMITTAL PLAN CHECKLIST • General Plan Requirements • Slope Planting Plan Requirements • On -Site Planting Plan Requirements • Irrigation Plan Requirements • Landscape Inspection Requirements (City Maintained and Master Association) • Landscape Inspection Requirements (Sub- Association, Commercial and On -Site Areas) • City Approval Block (must be on title sheet) II GENERAL RECOMMENDED PLANT LIST III INVASIVE AND PROHIBITED PLANT LIST IV RECOMMENDED TREES FOR STREETS V REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT FOR LANDSCAPE PLAN REIVEW VI APPLICANT'S LANDSCAPE CONSULTANT'S CHECKLIST AND CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE VII CITY STANDARD PLANTING DETAILS 1 -1 Tree Planting Detail 1 -2 Tree Guying Detail 1 -3 Tree Planting on Slope Detail 1 -4 Shrub Planting Detail 1 -5 Shrub on Slope Planting Detail VIII CITY STANDARD IRRIGATION DETAILS 2 -1 Remote Control Valve Detail 2 -2 Anti - siphon Valve Detail 2 -3 Backflow Preventer Detail 2 -4 Bubbler Detail 2 -5 Pop -up Rotor Detail 2 -6 Rotor On Slope Detail 2 -7 Pop -up Spray Head Detail 2 -8 Riser Spray Detail IX PLANTING DESIGN REQUIREMENT FIGURES 12 -1 Slope Planting w/View Fence (Elevation) 12 -2 Slope Planting w /Screen Wall (Elevation) 12 -3 Slope Planting at Single- Family Residence (Plan View) 12 -4 Slope Planting a Multi - Family Residence (Plan View) Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 6 SECTION 1 GENERAL The purpose of this guide is to assist in the preparation of landscape plans while incorporating water conservation measures, design aesthetics and landscape consistency throughout the City of Moorpark. It has been prepared by the City of Moorpark Community Development Department as a guide for use by landscape architects and others involved with the development of projects within the City. These standards and guidelines include water use requirements and the City's minimum landscape standards established to create a sense of community character. The landscape plans must meet the basic criteria within these standards and guidelines. Items which utilize mandatory language ( "shall ") are considered standards and must be adhered to. Additionally, certain projects may be required to exceed the minimum standards to achieve specific objectives. The items which utilize directory language ( "should ") are considered guidelines, and may be interpreted with some flexibility to meet goals which result in community benefit. These Guidelines and Standards are not intended to apply to projects involving an individual Single Family Detached residence, and it is not the intent of the City to impose these requirements upon Homeowners Associations already in existence at the time of the adoption of these Guidelines and Standards. The Community Development Director may waive any guidelines as deemed necessary and appropriate. 1.1 Water Conservation Water conservation through landscaping offers the greatest single opportunity for water savings in the urban area. About forty percent (40 %) of urban water is used to irrigate landscaped areas in California. A water - efficient landscape includes water efficient (drought tolerant) plants, efficient irrigation systems, proper soil preparation, responsive maintenance and watering schedules, and reuse of water (wherever possible) such as grey water, reclaimed or recycled water systems. Water- efficient design can both reduce project costs and reduce the amount of water usage for landscaping. Due to the increasing demand for water and the limited supply in Ventura County and within the City of Moorpark, water - efficient landscaping shall be required in new developments and existing developments undergoing significant modifications. Included within these standards and guidelines are Water Budget and Projected Water Use Calculations as well as a list of City approved plants and their suggested landscape use. The applicant may expand upon the material list with approval by the Community Development Director, but all suggestions must meet the basic criteria within the standards and guidelines, including: • Drought tolerant planting; • Limitation of lawn areas; • Efficient irrigation; • Proper soil preparation, including use of mulch • Responsive maintenance and watering schedule; • Use of surfaces that allow percolation of stormwater, such as turfcrete, gravel, porous pavements, vegetative groundcover, mulch, etc; • Surface drainage through bioswales; and • Stormwater storage for reuse onsite, such as cisterns. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 7 1.2 Ecological Viability The landscape plans should incorporate sensible conservation of public resources, including water, soil, biodiversity, energy resources, air quality, agricultural, recreational and wildlife open space, and other such resources in the public interest. Judicious conservation is cost - effective in both project construction and maintenance. Landscape plans that incorporate conservation also integrate with the character of the City's community and environs. The applicant is encouraged to take full advantage of the wide range of possibilities in design and technology within the framework established by this guide. A list of invasive and prohibited plants is provided (Attachment III). The Community Development Director or his /her designee may allow usage of select plants on this list in landscape areas that do not interface with sensitive ecological zones. Methods of increasing ecological viability include: • Reduced disturbance of soil and natural terrain through minimizing grading and working with the natural topography as much as possible; • Narrower road design and layouts with shorter road lengths, to reduce infrastructure costs and impermeable surfaces, as well as to increase opportunity to conserve natural resources, viewsheds and other space- requiring amenities in newly developed areas; • Native topsoil conservation and renewal, by saving topsoil and replacing it after grading, by re- vegetating with native plants, and other landscape regeneration methods; • Minimization of runoff via on -site stormwater retention /infiltration through open - bottom and vegetated swales and /or detention /retention basins, and other aesthetically enriching project amenities; • Slope stabilization with appropriate vegetation; • Use of drought - tolerant non - invasive native plants adjacent to designated natural resource areas and waterways; • Use of recycled materials of local origin for hardscaping, mulching and /or soil amendments; • Protection of viewsheds and open space areas; and • Multiple uses for landscapes, such as stormwater parks, to maximize available land area and natural resources, and to increase the quality of public service or economic opportunity. 1.3 Development of Community Character It is the intent of these standards and guidelines to provide a sense of community character that is compatible with the City's culture and environment, and to strengthen the perception of the community as a unique place. The aim of community character development is to create and enhance a community identity, to increase the enjoyment and sense of community among the public, and to enhance the image of the community as a desirable place to live, work and shop. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 8 a. Design with consistency and maintain a high standard of aesthetics: 1. Design elements should complement the architectural theme. 2. Private and public uses should be visually separate, but aesthetically consistent. 3. Public and Private streets should take on an individual appearance with a common street tree and design intent. 4. Landscape areas and streetscape should include `surprises' such as a large focal tree. b. Introduce design ideas that complement the City's cultural heritage and natural history such as: 1. 'ranch' style and early Spanish architecture; 2. natural landscape elements such as native trees and shrubs; 3. natural building material such as river rock and boulders; 4. the City's agricultural heritage; 5. the railroad; 6. the arroyo; and 7. local chaparral and riparian plant communities. C. Integrate conservation and efficiency whenever possible, to enhance enjoyment of the unique characteristics of the area, such as: 1. mild, sunny climate; 2. maritime weather patterns; 3. distinctive shape of the existing terrain; 4. viewsheds; 5. beauty of local natural history; and 6. local building materials. 1.4 Public Access and Enjoyment The landscape plans shall meet all Title 24 and ADA accessibility requirements as well as all applicable codes for fire and building in order to promote health, safety and community welfare. The intent of these standards and guidelines is to universally provide safe access for use and enjoyment, on new projects and on modifications of existing projects. a. ADA accessibility and Title 24 requirements shall be incorporated for public, commercial and industrial projects, for both new projects and modification of existing projects. b. Landscapes shall be viable, functional and attractive, to provide universal access, use and enjoyment. Landscapes shall provide for the health, safety and welfare of the community, through compliance with all applicable ordinances for fire, health and safety. Resolution No. PC -2004 -460 Page 9 C. In addition to ADA accessibility, landscapes should be designed for specific user populations as needed, whether for an elderly population, youth, or for specific disabilities such as blindness. Specific landscape functions and amenities should be considered. Examples include: 1. raised beds to wheelchair height and reach for handicapped and elderly access in a community garden; 2. casual seating located along pedestrian ways positioned for "people watching ", such as benches, steps, planters or grassy slopes, with a view onto a park, plaza or street; and 3. textured surfaces along pedestrian ways to guide non - sighted pedestrians. d. Landscapes shall enhance the microclimate and character of pedestrian ways and gathering places by adequately providing the following: 1. shade, from trees or from overhead structures; 2. screening; 3. seating; 4. lighting; 5. circulation, including adequate separation of pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian and vehicular circulation; and 6. attractive gathering spaces with focal amenities. 1.5 Fire Mitigation A Fuel Modification Plan may be required when a proposed project contains or is bounded by hazardous native vegetation as determined by the Ventura County Prevention District, This plan will demonstrate how the proposed project will mitigate potential fire hazards. The final Fuel Modification Plan shall be submitted in conjunction with landscape plans prior to review by the City. The final approved Fuel Modification Plan may take precedence over these standards and guidelines. SECTION 2 PROCESSING PROCEDURES 2.1 Pre - Submittal Meeting A pre - submittal meeting familiarizes the applicant with the review process, and identifies the information and materials necessary to file landscape plans. A pre - submittal meeting can be arranged by contacting the case planner at the Community Development Department. 2.2 Conceptual Landscape Package Submittal After the applicant has prepared all the information identified during the pre - submittal meeting, the landscape package shall be formally submitted with the required fee deposit in accordance with fee schedule and signed Reimbursement Agreement. (See Attachment V) Elements to be included in the conceptual landscape plan package are as follows: Resolution No. PC -2004 -460 Page 10 a. existing trees and shrubs to be removed and /or protect in place; b. structures or buildings to be removed and /or protect in place; C. tree, Shrub and Groundcover Plant Palette; d. street tree plan; e. general plant sizes and locations; f. all design elements, site features and flatwork, including elevations or perspective drawings of those features; g. project entry monumentation layout and elevations or perspective drawings. h. walls and fences including details; i. paving and walkways; j. color and material schedule. Samples should be included for City to review; k. all site amenities. At a minimum, the site amenities should reference color and material (i.e. wood, metal, etc.); L site and landscape lighting; M. preliminary parking lot shading plan if applicable. Plan should address all four seasons (refer to Section 10); and n. preliminary utility screening plan (refer to Section 9). 2.3 Conceptual Plan Review and Approval Upon receipt of the landscape package, the City's case planner shall review it for completeness and forward it to the City's consulting landscape architect for review. The consultant's review, which normally takes two weeks, consists of an on -site inspection and package review for consistency with City standards as outlined by this guide. Upon completion of the review, the consultant returns the package to the Planning Division with recommendations for approval or modification. This process is repeated until approval is achieved. Based upon the recommendations of the City's consulting landscape architect and case planner, the Community Development Director shall approve the project's landscape package. 2.4 Guarantee /Surety and Exoneration of Surety A surety bond may be required as a condition of approval in the following cases: a. To assure plant viability at least one year after installation. b. To assure installation of plants after issuance of a Zoning Clearance by the Planning Division and Certificate of Occupancy by Building and Safety. (This would normally be allowed only on non - sloped areas of residential projects where the applicant is providing landscaping). If, upon final landscape inspection, the Community Development Director determines that the landscaping and irrigation have been installed in accordance with the approved plans, the Community Development Director may recommend that the guarantee /surety be returned to the applicant. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 11 2.5 Installation and Inspection Landscaping for commercial, industrial and residential sloped areas shall be installed prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy by the City Building and Safety Division. The applicant's landscape architect shall be required to certify in writing to the Community Development Director that all work has been completed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications (Attachment VI). The City's landscape consultant will conduct the final landscape inspection after receipt of the certification. (See Section 4 - Installation Verification and Attachment I - Landscape Submittal Plan Checklist & Landscape Inspection Requirements) 2.6 Compliance Discretionary development permits may be conditioned for follow -up inspections to verify a maintenance program, water management auditing, or compliance with environmental mitigation measures. Failure by the applicant, successor in interest, or homeowner's association to maintain installed common area landscaping and /or irrigation systems will constitute a violation of the Conditions of Approval and /or Mitigation Measures of the development permit. SECTION 3 PLAN SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS The project's landscape package shall be prepared by a California Registered Landscape Architect, unless waived by the Community Development Director. Plans must be wet - stamped, signed and dated. Plan submittals shall include the following: (see Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist) 3.1 Plan Check Fees The applicant shall pay the deposit fee in accordance with the fee schedule and submit a signed reimbursement agreement to cover landscape review and inspection. Fees shall include costs of any required follow -up inspections. (See Attachment V - Reimbursement Agreement for Plan Review) 3.2 General Plan Preparation Requirements (See Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist) a. Base Sheets: Plans shall be drawn on clear and legible base sheets prepared especially for the landscape submittal. 2. Plans shall not exceed 30" x 42" or be less than 22" x 36" in size. 3. Base Sheets should accurately and clearly show the following existing and proposed features: a) property lines; b) streets, street rights -of -way, access easements and /or public or private driveways, walkways, bike paths, and any other paved areas; C) all existing and proposed buildings and structures; Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 12 d) parking areas, lighting, striping, curbs and wheel stops; e) all existing and proposed trees, shrubs and other significant landscape features; i.e., water courses, rock outcroppings, etc.; f) grading areas; top and toe of slopes, slope direction (engineer's Precise Grading plans must included with submittal); g) all Utilities, including street lighting, fire hydrants, transformers, electric meters, irrigation equipment, air conditioning units, etc.; h) existing native vegetation, on -site and on contiguous parcels, may be shown in a generalized manner; and i) Fire Clearance Zone, if applicable (Approved Fuel Modification Plan must be included with submittal). b. Scale: The scale shall not be smaller than 1"=20' unless prior approval is received from the Community Development Director. C. Title Block: A title block shall be included on all plans indicating the names, addresses and phone numbers of the applicant and the landscape architect. The title block shall include a north arrow and scale for each sheet. Each sheet shall be clearly labeled. The title block shall include the California Registered Landscape Architect's seal. Each sheet shall be 'wet- signed' for final approval. d. Title Sheet: Content of the Title Sheet shall include the following: 1. Project Title; 2. Title block; 3. Vicinity Map; 4. Location Map; 5. Sheet Index; 6. Landscape Approval Block (see Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist); 7. Landscape Inspection Schedule (see Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist); e. Other Items. 1. One (1) copy of the engineer's precise grading plans shall be included with the landscape submittal. 2. The final Fuel Modification Plan shall be included with the landscape submittal if applicable. 3.3 Planting Plan Requirements (See Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist) Plan Preparation Requirements: a. A Horticultural Soils Analysis with recommendations shall be attached to the landscape plans. (See Section 3.4 below) Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 13 b. The plans must include notation that a ninety (90) day maintenance period is required and that expenses are to be paid for by the owner. C. The planting plan shall include maintenance notes on either the plans or in the specifications. d. Planting specifications shall be included. e. Existing and proposed grades and drainage elements are shown f. All design elements shown on the approved Landscape Concept Plan; i.e. recreational areas, outdoor eating areas, trails, etc. g. Location and spacing of all plants are clearly identified. h. Common and botanical names of all plants are listed. i. Size and quantity of all plants are listed. j. Seed mix information including: 1. rate; 2. mix; 3. mulch; 4. binder; 5. fertilization; and 6. inoculation. k. Planting details I. General planting notes M. Planting specifications n. Maintenance notes (see Section 4) 3.4 Soils Analysis A soils report performed by a laboratory that is a member of the California Association of Agricultural Laboratories shall be attached to the landscape plans. The soil sample tested shall be taken after site grading and the date of the sample shall be included on the report. The planting backfill mixture and soil amendments shall be based on this analysis. Use of soil amendments produced from recycled yard trimmings and /or organic wastes of local origin is encouraged, whenever feasible. The report shall include the following: a. Determination of soil texture indicating the percentage of organic matter shall be indicated. b. An approximate determination of the soil infiltration rate shall be indicated. A range of infiltration rates should be noted, where appropriate C. Measure of pH and total soluble salts shall be indicated. d. Amendments and recommendations for improving water - holding properties shall be noted. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 14 3.5 Irrigation Plan Requirements (See Attachment I - Landscape Plan Review Checklist) All landscape areas shall be provided with an approved irrigation system that meets the requirements of this section. Specific site conditions and proposed landscape materials will determine the design of the irrigation system. The irrigation system shall deliver water efficiently and uniformly. All equipment shall be designed for installation per manufacturer's recommendation, and conform to Uniform Plumbing Codes and all local regulations. a. When considering design alternatives, the following criteria shall be utilized: 1. Head -to -head coverage: The irrigation design shall provide adequate "head -to- head" and sufficient water for the continued healthy growth of all proposed plantings with a minimum of waste or overspray on adjoining areas. 2. Reduced Pressure Backflow Device: Notation shall be on the landscape plan that the backflow device must be tested at a minimum of once a year. All backflow devices shall be installed in a mesh enclosure with green or tan powder coating. 3. Uniform distribution: The distribution of uniformity of an installed sprinkler system shall meet or exceed seventy percent (70 %). 4. Controllers: Automatic irrigation controllers are required with separate programs for each landscape area with a different irrigation need, Controllers shall be capable of controlling the operating time for each circuit, the starting time and daily schedule of operation. Each controller must be able to accommodate multiple schedules and contain fourteen (14) -day minimum clocks; percentage switches; repeat cycles; the ability to schedule by the day of the week; and rain sensing override devices. A watering schedule shall be placed in each controller. 5. Soil moisture sensors: Soil moisture sensing devices are suggested in representative areas of the landscape plan. 6. Point irrigation: Drip emitters and bubblers are recommended for trees and shrubs. 7. Runoff and overspray: Soil types and percolation rate shall be considered when designing irrigation systems. All irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, low head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows onto adjacent areas, walks, roadways, or structures. The water application rate shall attempt to match the infiltration rate of the soil. Repeat cycles shall be utilized in an effort to avoid runoff. Sprinkler heads should be properly located to minimize landscape water overspray or runoff onto hardscape, unplanted areas, or areas of dissimilar water needs. 8. Quick couplers: Quick couplers or hose bibs are required at one - hundred foot (100') intervals throughout the project. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 15 9. Sprinkler heads: Sprinkler heads shall be selected for proper area coverage, precipitation rate, operating pressure, adjustment capability, and ease of maintenance. Heads or emitters shall have matched precipitation rates within ten percent (10 %) for each control valve circuit. Above ground risers are not allowed next to sidewalks, driveways, or curbs and are discouraged anywhere people can easily access; these sprinklers must be the pop -up type. In areas less than six feet wide, drip emitters and bubblers are recommended. 10. Rain sensing override devices: Rain sensing override devices are required on all irrigation systems. 11. Back -up System: The irrigation system shall be installed with a back -up system should an operating valve fail to shutoff or a break in the mainline occurs. The back up system should either consist of a normally open master valve with flow meter or a normally closed master valve. On large irrigation systems, a normally open master valve with flow meter will be required. 12. Piping: Plastic (PVC) mainline piping requires placement not less than 18" below final grade and minimum twenty -four inches (24 ") below finish surface of streets, with lateral lines requiring 12" depth. UVR (Ultra Violet Resistant) above ground pipe shall only be installed on slope areas. Galvanized lines shall be above ground. Other piping shall be considered for drip or temporary irrigation. Piping for reclaimed water systems shall follow current County Health and State Health standards for pipe color, depth and separation. All irrigation piping under streets or flatwork shall be sleeved with sch 40 PVC minimum two (2) times the diameter of the pipe enclosed. 13. Water meters: Landscape irrigation systems shall be on a separate water meter unless waived by the Community Development Director. A separate meter provides for monitoring of landscape irrigation efficiency. 14. Reclaimed water: If reclaimed water is available, and if installation is determined to be feasible and is approved by the Ventura Councy Environmental Health Division in conjunction with the local water purveyor, a reclaimed irrigation system shall be installed. b. Plan Preparation Requirements Irrigation Plans shall be separate from Planting Plans, and shall have clear graphic indication of all system components with an irrigation legend on each sheet and shall include the following: a) equipment manufacturer; b) type of equipment; C) model number; d) precipitation rate; e) size; f) gallon per minute (GPM) demand; Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 16 g) pounds per square inch (p.s.i.) demand; h) radius of cover for each head type; i) name and telephone number of the water purveyor; j) design and static water pressure (contact water company) and note reference engineer and date; k) point of connection (location and size); 1) backflow protection as approved by Ventura County Environmental Health; m) controllers, including number of stations; n) remote control valves including gallonage requirement, piping, heads and quick couplers (or hose bibs); o) pipe sizes indicated numerically (i.e. %2 ", 3/ ", etc.); and P) rain shut off device. 2. The plans shall include the landscape inspection requirements. The inspection schedule shall be included on the Title Sheet. (See Attachment 1) 3. The plans shall include an irrigation schedule. 4. Worst case pressure loss calculation for the circuit with the highest demand, farthest distance from the POC and highest elevation shall be provided. 5. Details and specifications shall be provided for all irrigation system components. 3.6 Maintenance Program Landscapes of residential common areas and commercial or industrial projects shall be carefully and competently maintained to ensure water efficiency and high quality appearance. A watering schedule encased in plastic shall be kept inside each controller (with reduced as -built plans showing hydro- zones). Maintenance guideline notes must appear on the planting plan drawings. Using these standards and guidelines, a schedule for ongoing maintenance shall be prepared and shown on the planting plan. The maintenance guidelines shall be as follows: Post - installation Maintenance Standards and Guidelines a. Any alterations to the landscape must be approved by the Community Development Director. b. Control all harmful diseases and pests. All chemical applications must be per state licensed advisors and applications. C. Pruning shall be done to keep plants within special limitations, removal of deadwood, cross - branching, etc., per International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards. Plants shall never be sheared unless specified on the approved plan. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 17 Trees are to be allowed to grow to the designed size to provide maximum shading of paved areas. d. Water shall be applied for optimum plant growth with minimal runoff or overspray. Adjust controllers per current California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS) data. Information can be obtained at www.cimis.ca.gov . e. Always replace heads with the same kind of head, or head with a matching precipitation rate. f. Backflow device shall be tested and certified annually by the Ventura County Environmental Health Division. g. Inspect tree supports frequently, and remove as soon as the plants will stand without support and will be able to resist wind damage. Never allow support materials to girdle the trunk or branches. h. Landscape irrigation shall be scheduled during the night or early morning hours. i. A regular maintenance schedule shall include checking, adjusting, and repairing the irrigation equipment; aerating and de- thatching turf areas; replenishing mulch; fertilizing; pruning; weeding; and removing litter in all landscaped areas. SECTION 4 INSTALLATION VERIFICATION 4.1 Approved Plans /Conditions Copies of the approved landscape plans and conditions are kept and available at the City of Moorpark, Community Development Department. 4.2 Landscape Condition Compliance Review Prior to completion of the landscaping and pLigE to final inspection, the City's landscape consultant shall inspect the site and certify that the landscape complies with these standards and guidelines per the attached inspection schedule (see Attachment 1). The applicant shall notify the City a minimum of forty -eight (48) hours prior to inspection. Upon completion of the installation of the landscaping and prior to final inspection, the applicant's landscape consultant shall inspect the site and certify that the landscape complies with these standards and guidelines. Certification shall be accomplished by completing the Certificate of Compliance checklist (see attachment VII). Concurrently or afterwards, the City's landscape consultant shall inspect the landscape planting and irrigation installations for final conformance with the approved plans and specifications. The applicant must also employ a certified backflow tester to certify the backflow device. A second inspection of residential common areas, commercial or industrial projects shall be conducted by the City's landscape consultant one year after certification to assure condition compliance including irrigation efficiency and plant viability. 4.3 Maintenance Program Landscapes of residential common areas, commercial or industrial projects shall be carefully and competently maintained to ensure water efficiency and high quality appearance. A watering schedule and as -built plans shall be encased in plastic and shall be kept in each controller. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 18 SECTION 5 CONTINUED COMPLIANCE REQUIRED The applicant, successor in interest, or homeowner's association shall maintain installed landscaping and efficient irrigation systems in compliance with the Conditions of Approval and /or Mitigation Measures of the development permit. SECTION 6 WATER BUDGET AND PROJECTED WATER USE CALCULATIONS Each landscape plan must have a water budget and projected water use calculations. Each project site is allowed a certain amount of water based upon the climate of the site and the total square footage of the planting area. Any plant can be used, provided the combined projected water use of all the plants does not exceed the water budget. A water budget calculation is based on the site's size and the reference Evapotranspiration (ET) factor. Included in the calculation of ET factors are evapotranspiration rates, precipitation rates, a crop coefficient and an allowance for uniformity. The reference ET factors within Ventura County are available at the CIMIS website at www.cimis.ca.gov . The water budget and projected water use calculations shall be submitted as part of the irrigation plan. The projected water use shall not exceed the water budget. A reproducible hydro -zone map showing separation of planting areas with plant factors shall be submitted as part of the landscape package. Areas such as parks, golf courses or school yards where turf provides a playing surface may require additional water. A statement to that effect shall be included with the planting plan, designating areas to be set aside for such purposes. The designated recreation area may receive more water than the water budget allows on a case -by -case basis. Such additional allocation shall be consistent with Ventura County's policy regarding the use of reclaimed water for golf courses. Calculating the Water Budget of a Project Site A site's water budget is determined by multiplying the square footage of the planting area by the site's ET factor. After you have determined how much water is in your budget, you can then calculate the projected water use of your proposed planting plan. To calculate the water budget of a site use this formula: Water Budget (Gallons/Year) _ (ET) x (.8) x (LA) x (.62) Water Budget = Maximum Applied Water Allowance (gallyr) ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches/yr) .8 = ET Adjustment Factor LA = Landscaped Area (in square feet) .62 = Conversion Factor (to gal✓sq. ft.) This formula is based on California state law (Assembly Bill 325). Calculating the Project Water Use of a Landscape Plan: The total amount of projected water use should be less than or equal to the site's water budget. To determine the plant factor, multiply the plant factor of each planting hydro- Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 19 zone by its square footage. Then add the results and complete the calculation of projected water use for the entire planting area. Generalized plant factors are: .3 = low water using plants, .5 = average water using plants, and .8 = high water using plants. These factors must be agreed upon by the designer and the City. If a plant is not on the list, an equivalency determination will be made by the Community Development Director. Any changes in the irrigation system or landscape will require new water projections. To calculate the projected water use of a landscape plan, use this formula: Projected Water Use (Gallons /year) _ (ET) x r(PF) x (HAA x (.62) IE ETo = Reference Evapotranspiration (inches/year) PF = Plant Factor (.1 low through .9 high) HA = Hydro -zone Area (square feet) (.62) = Conversion Factor (to gallons/square foot) IE = Irrigation Efficiency (minimum .625) For the purpose of determining the projected water use, irrigation efficiency is assumed to be 0.625 or better. Irrigation systems shall be designed, maintained and managed to meet or exceed 0.625 efficiency. If the plant factors average 0.5, the water budget will be met at an irrigation efficiency of 0.625. SECTION 7 PUBLIC RIGHT -OF -WAY Special attention should be given to the planning and design of areas that are to be maintained by the City and /or are within the public right -of -way. These areas should utilize drought tolerant planting material, planting material that is low maintenance and utilize water conservation techniques without compromising the aesthetics of the design. 7.1 Parkways and streetscapes The design and layout of the streetscape is not only important to identify and individualize the project area, but also to capture the characteristics of Moorpark. The following goals should be considered: • The street tree should be of the same species for each street to promote consistency and area identity. • The streetscape must be designed with parkways. • Sidewalks should meander whenever possible. • Secondary trees outside of the right -of -way should consist of randomly spaced tree groves and informal massings. • Trees and shrubs should be chosen to provide varying texture, color and form. • The landscaping should be consistent with the architectural theme. • Shrub plantings should consist of layers of planting of varying heights. a. General Streetscape Requirements Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 20 1. There shall be a minimum of one (1) shrub per ten (10) s.f. and one (1) tree per four - hundred (400) s.f., exclusive of street trees located within the parkway area. 2. Shrubs shall be minimum 5- gallon size. 3. Accent and perennials shall be located in groupings or massings along the planting edges at a distance not to exceed twenty feet (20') on center. The accent and perennial groupings are exclusive of the shrub - planting requirement. Accent and perennial plant massings shall consist of minimum 1- gallon container size plants with a minimum of twenty -five (25) plants per grouping. Larger groupings at a distance greater than thirty feet (30') may be installed provided the plant quantities are met. 4. With the exception of street trees and median island trees, the minimum tree size is 15- gallon. 5. All shrub areas shall be installed with flatted groundcover unless the landscape is installed with container plantings that will fill in within one year. 6. All shrub areas shall be installed with minimum one -inch (1 ") depth of bark mulch. 7. Turf may be allowed within the parkway area but not in the median island areas. 8. All planting shall be drought tolerant and low maintenance. 9. Six -inch (6 ") wide concrete headers shall be installed between turf and shrub areas. 10. Turf shall not be installed on slopes that exceed a 4:1 ratio. b. Street Tree Requirements 1. Street trees should be spaced according to the mature canopy size of the tree, but in no circumstance should the spacing exceed thirty feet (30') on center without City approval. 2. Street trees shall be minimum 24" box size with minimum 1 %" caliper. Trees shall be between eight (8') to twelve (12') height with a minimum two foot (2') wide spread. 3. Trees shall be standard trunk, not multi- trunk. 4. All street trees within ten feet (10') of walks, curbs, or other hardscape areas shall be installed with a linear root barrier ten feet (10') in length by twenty -four inch (24 ") in depth installed against the hardscape area centered on the tree trunk. 5. Trees shall be located per the sight distance requirements established by the City Engineer at intersections. Unless otherwise determined by the City Engineer, street trees shall not be closer than twenty -five (25') to the back of curb return. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 21 6. Street trees shall be located no less than five feet (5') from curbs, sidewalks and other hardscape areas, unless they are located in parkways. 7. Street trees shall be located no less than ten feet (10') from utility poles and light standards, fire hydrants, utility structures and driveway aprons. 8. Trees that may exceed twenty feet (20') vertical height at maturity shall not be located under utility lines. 7.2 Median Island Planting Requirements a. General Requirements 1. There shall be a minimum of one (1) shrub per ten (10) s.f. and one (1) tree per four - hundred (400) s.f. 2. Shrubs shall consist of minimum 5- gallon container sizes. 3. In median islands ten feet (10') wide or greater, accent and perennials shall be located in massings along the planting edges at a distance not to exceed thirty feet (30') on center and shall be exclusive of the shrub - planting requirement. Accent and perennial plant massings shall consist of minimum 1- gallon container size plants with a minimum of twenty -five (25) plants per grouping. Larger groupings at a distance greater than thirty feet (30') may be installed provided the plant quantities are met. 4. Median island trees shall be minimum seventy -five percent (75 %) 24" box size and twenty -five percent (25 %) 15- gallon container sizes. 5. All shrub areas shall be installed with flatted groundcover unless the landscape is installed with container plantings that will fill in within one year. 6. All shrub areas shall be installed with minimum 1" depth of bark mulch. 7. Turf is not allowed in the median islands. 8. All planting shall be drought tolerant and low maintenance. 9. All trees shall be installed with a linear root barrier ten feet (10') in length by twenty -four inch (24 ") in depth installed against the hardscape area centered on the tree trunk. b. Planting Design Requirements 1. Median island trees shall consist of a variety of tree species of varying form, texture and color. Flowering and canopy trees are encouraged. 2. Trees shall be located per the sight distance requirements established by the City Engineering Department. Trees shall not be installed adjacent to a turn pocket. 3. Shrubs located adjacent to the turn pocket shall not exceed eighteen inches (18 ") in height. Larger shrubs are permitted at a distance of twenty feet (20') from the beginning of the turn pocket, but shall not exceed thirty inches (30 ") in height. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 22 4. Turf is not permitted in median islands. 5. An eighteen -inch (18 ") wide hardscape edge shall be installed along the entire length of the median island adjacent to the curb for maintenance. The hardscape band shall consist of either colored, stamped concrete, or concrete pavers, to match the architectural theme of the project. SECTION 8 COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MULTI - FAMILY PROJECTS Landscape screening is particularly important with respect to commercial, industrial and multi - family street frontages. The large building mass, parking areas and maintenance staging areas are all relatively visible from the street frontage and require landscaping to soften the architecture and screen utility structures. a. General Planting Requirements 1. Minimum percentage of landscape coverage shall be provided within on- site parking areas consistent with Chapter 17.32 of the Moorpark Municipal Code. 2. There shall be a minimum of one (1) shrub per one - hundred (100) s.f. and one (1) tree per five - hundred (500) s.f., exclusive of street trees located within the parkway area. 3. Shrubs shall consist of eighty percent (80 %) 5- gallon and twenty percent (20 %) 1- gallon of each variety. 4. Turf shall not exceed ten percent (10 %) of the total landscape area, exclusive of the parkway area. 5. Large groupings of accent, perennials and annuals are encouraged. 6. Trees shall be a minimum seventy -five percent (75 %) 24" box and twenty - five percent (25 %) 15- gallon. 7. All shrub areas shall be installed with flatted groundcover unless the landscape is installed with container plantings that will fill in within one year. 8. All shrub areas shall be installed with minimum one -inch (1 ") depth of bark mulch. 9. The planting palette shall be consistent with these standards and guidelines. 10. Turf shall not be installed on slopes that exceed 4:1. b. Planting Design Requirements. 1. The landscape buffer shall consist of tall vertical trees adjacent to the building and lower canopy trees adjacent to the street frontage. 2. The tree planting shall consist of a mixture of evergreen, deciduous and flowering trees. 3. All utilities, trash enclosures, maintenance staging areas, etc. shall be screened from view. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 23 4. A parkway with street trees shall be installed at the street frontage. 5. Large specimen trees and enhanced landscaping shall be located at the entry locations. Specimen trees shall be minimum 36" box size. 6. Parking areas should be screened from public view from the street. SECTION 9 UTILITIES To reduce the visibility of generally unattractive utility equipment, landscape screening shall be incorporated. For the purpose of these standards and guidelines, utility structures are any appurtenances that are above ground and have been installed in conjunction with new construction or are existing and part of a newly renovated project (i.e. electric meters, transformers, irrigation equipment, air conditioning units, etc.). The landscape plans shall identify all utility structures on site and provide appropriate screening. a. General Design Requirements 1. All utility structures shall be screened from view with appropriate landscaping. 2. Utility structures shall utilize camouflage, disguising the facility as a natural or more aesthetically pleasing man -made object to soften its visual impact on its surroundings. 3. Access to utility structures shall be maintained, while at least seventy -five (75 %) of the shall be screened from view. 4. Bollards shall not be installed with any new utility equipment unless required by governing agency. 5. All utility equipment shall be located at the rear of the property. 6. All utility equipment shall be located in shrub areas with a minimum of three feet (3') clear distance around all sides for appropriate landscape screening. 7. Screening shall take into consideration traffic sight distance requirements established by the City Engineer. SECTION 10 PARKING AREAS Parking lots should be designed to provide ease of access and safety as well as to enhance the visual quality of the City. The ultimate goal of the design is to provide a safe environment, minimize the visual appearance of the large expanse of asphalt and to reduce glare, ambient temperature and traffic noise. a. General Design Requirements A minimum of fifteen percent (15 %) of the total parking area shall consist of landscaping. Landscaping shall be computed on the basis of the net parking facility, which includes parking stalls (covered and uncovered), aisles and walkways, but does not include required landscaping adjacent to streets and within the public right -of -way. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 24 2. All parking rows shall terminate with a planter or island that is a minimum of five -foot (6) width. Parking rows shall not exceed forty feet (40') in length without the addition of a planter finger or island. 3. A minimum of one (1) tree per every four (4) stalls is required to meet the shade requirement. 4. There shall be a minimum of one (1) shrub per ten (10) s.f. 5. Shrubs shall consist of eighty percent (80 %) 5- gallon size and twenty percent (20 %) 1- gallon size. 6. Interior shrub planting shall not exceed thirty inches (30 ") in height. 7. Turf is not allowed in parking areas. 8. Additional groupings of accent plants and perennials are required. 9. The minimum tree size is 24" box. 10. All shrub areas shall be installed with flatted groundcover unless the landscape is installed with container plantings that will fill in within one year. 11. All shrub areas shall be installed with minimum one -inch (1 ") depth of bark mulch. 12. The planting palette shall be consistent with these standards and guidelines. b. Planting Design Requirements 1. The parking area and parked cars shall be adequately screened from view from the street frontage with landscaping. 2. There shall be a minimum of fifty percent (50 %) tree shade coverage of the parking area. This is determined at two- thirds (2/3) tree maturity or fifteen (15) years after installation. 3. A shade coverage exhibit must be submitted to the Community Development Director for review and approval. 4. A minimum of one (1) `finger' planter, five feet (6) in width, shall be provided at a minimum of every forty (40) lineal feet, and at the end of every parking aisle. 5. A minimum of one (1) `diamond' planter shall be provided at every fourth stall within the parking area or as needed to obtain the shade coverage requirement. 6. A minimum of one (1) `finger' planter, five feet (6) in width, shall be provided at every eight (8) stalls adjacent to the building or street frontage. Additional tree massings shall be included adjacent to these areas to provide the shade coverage required. 7. Decorative paving material is encouraged to break up the large expanse of concrete or asphalt. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 25 8. Landscape areas shall be designed so as to discourage pedestrians from crossing any landscape areas to reach building entrances or parked vehicles. 9. Landscape islands shall be designed with walkways that encourage pedestrian circulation through the parking area. 10. Wheel stops are not allowed. 11. An eighteen inch (18 ") wide concrete band adjacent to the access side of the vehicle shall be installed adjacent to the median island curb for pedestrian access. 12. Median islands shall be a minimum of five feet (5) wide without a walkway and fifteen feet (15') wide with a five -foot (6), walkway not including the curb. SECTION 11 EROSION CONTROL AND NATURAL AREAS Erosion control landscaping is required to reduce soil erosion and excessive runoff due to construction activities. Erosion control landscaping can also provide an aesthetically pleasing hillside with the proper selection of plant material and design intent. a. General Design Requirements 1. Slope planting design should incorporate three (3) levels of vegetation: ground cover, shrubs and trees. Each planting level should provide varying levels of height, texture and color. 2. 'Ornamental' orchards are strongly discouraged and shall only be considered on a case -by -case basis and accompanied by a long -term care and maintenance plan. 3. A minimum five -foot (5) wide Transition Zone of ornamental planting shall separate streets or sidewalks from native areas. The planting species chosen for these areas shall not be invasive or subject to naturalizing and shall be drought tolerant. 4. Pepper Trees are strongly discouraged except as specimen trees within the historic downtown area or in large landscaped areas away from hardscape, and shall only be considered on a case -by -case basis. 5. Eucalyptus Trees are strongly discouraged and shall only be considered on a case -by -case basis. 6. All manufactured slopes, three feet (3') or greater in vertical height, shall be planted with groundcover from cuttings, shrubs and trees. Hydroseed may be considered adjacent to naturalized areas with prior City approval. 7. All manufactured slopes, five feet (5') or greater in vertical height, shall be installed with jute mesh or equal per City approval. 8. Shrubs on slopes shall be planted at a minimum of one (1) shrub per one - hundred (100) square feet. 9. Trees on slopes shall be planted at a minimum of one (1) tree per three - hundred -fifty (350) square feet. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 26 10. Minimum tree size is seventy -five percent (75 %) 15- gallon and twenty -five percent (25 %) 24" box. 11. Minimum shrub size is sixty percent (60 %) 5- gallon and forty percent (40 %) 1- gallon. 12. All slopes planted with cuttings shall be treated with a pre- emergent herbicide per the manufacturer's recommendations and must be identified on the landscape plans. 13. Any existing slope area cleared by construction activity shall, at a minimum, be "`re- vegetated" with a hydroseed mix and temporary irrigation system. The restoration requirement for cleared areas will be per the City's discretion. At a minimum the cleared area shall be restored to its original condition. 14. All existing vegetation shall be retained to the greatest extent possible. The City shall determine mitigation measures for the loss of existing trees. 15. To the greatest extent possible, existing trees that cannot be preserved shall be relocated on site. 16. All manufactured slopes shall be permanently irrigated with an automatic irrigation system. 17. Unimproved disturbed and slope areas shall be landscaped within one - hundred- eighty (180) days following the issuance of a grading permit and /or within thirty (30) days prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. 18. Temporary slope erosion control plans are required if the unimproved areas are not permanently planted and irrigated through the rainy season. 19. All slope erosion control plans, temporary slope erosion control plans and landscape plans that include disturbed areas, shall be approved prior to the issuance of a building permit and shall be submitted prior to the issuance of a grading permit. 20. All hardscape structures such as bench drains and slough walls shall be designed to blend into the hillside with matching colored concrete or masonry color. 21. All hardscape structures shall be screened with plant material. 22. Slope landscaping shall not be accepted by the City until 100% planting coverage has been attained. b. Planting Design Requirements 1. Slope planting shall promote varying height, mass, texture, color and form. Large masses of shrubs shall be designed in groupings. 2. The slope planting must reinforce the theme of the hillside area. 3. Plant material shall reinforce the natural hillside terrain and /or general manufactured topography. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 27 4. Low growing and medium size shrubs shall be placed at the lower slope areas in large massings. Medium and large shrub massings should be intermingled at the mid and upper slopes areas. Plantings must respect neighboring views (see fig. 12.1 & 12.2 in Attachment IX). 5. Canopy trees shall be placed at the lower slope areas and shall not grow above the height of the top of slope at view conditions. Canopy trees shall be placed in random clusters adjacent to property lines to open view corridors. Vertical trees shall be located at the upper slope areas adjacent to property lines at view conditions (see fig. 12.3, 12.4 in Attachment IX). 6. Trees located on large slopes shall be grouped in clusters to maintain a natural appearance. C. Irrigation Design Standards 1. All manufactured slopes shall be installed with a permanent, automatic irrigation system. 2. UVR PVC, or "brownline ", may be installed only on master association or LMD slopes. However, all toe -of -slope conditions shall be buried and installed with pop -up heads. 3. Private slopes shall be installed with buried PVC pipe. 4. All slope irrigation shall be installed with an approved means of backflow prevention. 5. Separate circuits shall be installed for top, toe and mid slope conditions. 6. Spray heads shall be designed to avoid bench drains. Heads shall be installed on both sides to maintain coverage. 7. Spray heads shall be designed with respect to the topography. 8. A master valve with flow sensor is required at all point of connections. 9. Rain sensing override devices are required. 10. Worst case pressure loss calculations shall be included for the circuit with the highest volume, the circuit with the longest run from the POC and the circuit at the highest elevation. 11. An irrigation schedule shall be included within the irrigation controller box. 12. All necessary means shall be taken to prevent low head drainage. The plans must specify that any head that drains for more than sixty (60) seconds requires a check valve. SECTION 12 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS 12.1 Water- Efficient Model Home Requirements a. General: These requirements apply to all Residential Zones whenever model homes are involved. If there are two or more model homes, one shall be designed to meet the water - saving landscaping condition for residential tracts. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 28 Each "water- saving" model home shall contain exclusively low -water use plant materials and efficient irrigation systems with appropriate signs and information for prospective home buyers. b. Water Meter: Each model in the complex, including the low -water use model, shall be equipped with a water meter to generate records on how much water the landscape uses. The information will be used in public information materials about the model and the water - saving potential for low -water use landscapes. C. Plant Material: All plants used are to be low -water using types and readily available in Ventura County or other nearby sources. The plants used should be attractive, including some flowering types, require relatively little maintenance once established, and enhance the appearance of the model. d. Use of Lawn: When there are two models, the use of lawn in the water - efficient model shall not exceed twenty -five percent (25 %) of the net landscaped area with no limit on front yard use. When there are three or more models, the use of lawn shall be no more than total fifteen percent (15 %) of the net landscaped area of the water - efficient model. The net landscaped area is the gross area minus the house foot print, the driveway, detached garage, attached covered patio, slopes of 3:1 ratio or steeper and higher than four feet. Low -water use varieties of lawn shall be used. e. Irrigation System: The irrigation system serving a low -water use landscape shall include a bubbler and /or drip system valve. Any sprinklers shall be located properly to minimize overspray onto unplanted areas. At least one (1) moisture sensor should be used with a sign indicating its location. The moisture sensor will override the controller if the soil is too wet to require irrigation. f. Signs: Signs identifying aspects of the landscape design and irrigation shall be placed around the model. These signs should be clearly marked on the landscape plan for the model. The criteria below should be used in developing and placing the signs. 1. Entrance Sign: A maximum four (4) square foot sign shall be located in front of or at the entrance to the model home. The sign shall indicate that the model is landscaped with low -water using or drought tolerant plant materials and that an efficient irrigation system has been used. 2. Identification Signs: Small, maximum one (1) square foot, Identification signs shall be placed throughout the landscaped area identifying the irrigation system used, the different sub -areas of the landscape, and any other features that contribute to the overall water conservation theme (hardscapes, redwood bark, mulch). One (1) sign shall identify the moisture sensor in the display. 3. Interior Signs or Displays: A drawing or combination of drawings should be displayed inside the model providing a schematic of the landscape. These drawings should include a key identifying the plants in the yard. It is suggested that this schematic also be printed in a one (1) page handout to be available at the model or the sales office. The drawings could be simplified renderings of the landscape plan itself, using common Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 29 names rather than the botanical names for the plants. The drawings should be colorful, easy to read, and framed for protection. g. Literature: A package of literature describing water conserving landscaping shall be given out to individuals upon purchase of a home in the tract. This literature and additional materials shall be displayed inside the model, also enclosed in a frame, with a note indicating where this material can be obtained. 12.2 Private Front Yards Residential landscapes are those which occur on private property outside the street right -of -way. These areas are installed and maintained by the homeowner or homeowner association. The following suggestions are provided to assist the homeowner or the association in establishing a well conceived and balanced landscape design with the emphasis on allowing the maximum amount of creativity as possible while still meeting the intent of these guidelines. a. Water Conservation: 1. Turf areas should be limited to one -third (1/3) of the total landscape area. The remaining area should include one -third (1/3) shrubs /groundcover and one -third (1/3) hardscape. 2. Irrigated areas should be separated between turf and shrub /groundcover areas. This allows for different watering schedules to meet the various water needs of different plant materials. 3. Automated irrigation controllers and remote control valves should be utilized to efficiently monitor watering schedules. This prevents accidental all night watering and also provides freedom to leave the landscape for prolonged periods of time without creating stress conditions. 4. Irrigation design should include properly sized sprinkler heads (spray radius) and provide head to head spacing of sprinklers to insure adequate coverage. 5. Water overspray should be kept to a minimum of one foot (1') to two feet (2') on hardscape surfaces and avoid spraying on walls and fences. 6. Bubbler and drip irrigation is encouraged for use in small landscape areas. 7. Turf varieties should be selected for durability and reduced water needs. Alta fescue and Bermuda hybrids (with perennial rye grass used as a "nurse crop" in winter) are encouraged. 8. Shrubs selected should be compatible with the climatic conditions of the inland valleys (hot and cold) and somewhat drought tolerant. b. Planting 1. Trees should be selected based on their size at maturity. Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 30 2. A balance of evergreen and deciduous (leafless in winter) trees should be planted to provide a seasonally changed landscape. 3. Shrubs and groundcovers should be selected based on their eventual size to avoid an "overgrown" or butchered appearance. 4. Foreground and background relationships should be utilized in shrub and groundcover plantings. 5. Screening (planting of trees and /or shrubs of undesirable views is encouraged. 6. View opportunities should be maintained as a courtesy to adjacent property owners. C. Installation: All planting areas should be loosened to a depth of six inches (6 ") and rototilled in two (2) directions with soil amendments and conditioners as required by soil type. d. Maintenance 1. Landscape areas should be maintained in an attractive condition at all times. 2. Regular fertilization with a well - balanced fertilizer should be done to avoid stressed conditions and prevent disease. e. Safety 1. Water overspray on hardscape areas should be avoided and kept to a minimum. 2. Pop -up sprinkler heads on swing joints should be used along walkways to avoid a "trip hazard ". 12.3 Street Trees It is the goal of the City of Moorpark to create an overall cohesive theme in terms of street tree design and species selection. Street trees should be incorporated into the overall landscape theme of the development. The designer shall refer to the approved Street Tree List. The following guidelines serve to create a visible community character that will foster a unique image: Planting Design: Within all residential projects, minimum 24" box size street trees shall be planted as follows: a. Cul -de -sac: minimum one tree per street frontage (maximum thirty feet (30') on center). b. Interior Lot: minimum one tree per street frontage (maximum thirty feet (30') on center). C. Corner Lot: minimum three trees per street frontage (maximum thirty feet (30') on center). Resolution No. PC- 2004 -460 Page 31 12.4 Streetscape Concept The Streetscape Concept is the primary landscape framework for the City of Moorpark. The intention is to establish the theme for each major street in the City. The streetscape components consist of sidewalks, street trees, landscape areas behind the sidewalk, and median islands where they occur. Larger specimen trees should be planted at highly - visible focal points, such as entry gates, major intersections and other landmarks. Median islands along arterials should be planted with the same palette as adjacent parkways. A different, but complementary palette should be used along collector streets within the project and another different, but complementary palette along residential streets. Each palette may differ from area to area, but they should reflect the theme which is established by the arterial and collector streets. The designer shall verify final tree selection with the Community Development Director. 12.5 Walls and Fencing The perimeter wall acts as a divider between residential and commercial areas from a street. The wall blocks noise and creates privacy. The treatment of wall can add special dimension to the streetscape concept. The design of walls should be consistent throughout neighborhoods of the City to create a community theme. The following are guidelines for walls which are located along streets, public space, the rear street of double frontage lots, and the side street yard of double frontage lots: a. Wall niches are prohibited. A minimum five -foot (5') planter area shall be provided for trees, shrubs and vines adjacent to all walls. b. Chain link, plastic and wood fencing is not permitted, except in rural areas, subject to Community Development Director approval. C. The minimum wall setback shall be determined by the Conditions of Approval for the project. Walls shall vary in setback to provide areas for landscape features that create interest and reduce the linear aspect of appearance of a walled street. d. Use of decorative masonry block, pilaster, wrought iron and other decorative treatments are required. e. Precision concrete is not permitted for walls adjacent to a street. f. The texture and color of walls shall match the theme of the development or adjacent surroundings. g. In residential areas the wall height shall be a minimum of six feet (6') when located in a street sideyard. Wall heights in excess of six feet (6') shall require adjacent landscaping on the street side to soften the overall height. h. Walls over six feet (6') high and retaining walls over three feet (3') high require certification by a Registered Engineer. i. The use of vines, shrubs, and trees shall be required to break the monotonous pattern of the wall. Landscaping shall be approved by the Community Development Director.