§ 9.03. Definitions.

The following definitions shall be used for terms contained with this ordinance:

Berm: An area of ground raised in elevation to create a visual separation between two areas.

Bufferyards: A landscaped area installed and maintained to separate and obstruct the view between a more intensive zoned lot and less intensive zoned, adjacent lot.

Caliper: The diameter of a tree as measured 12 inches above the ground.

Landscaped Area: Area within a lot which consists primarily of plant material. Inorganic materials such as walkways may be used within this area, provided that such material not exceed the maximum allowable amount.

Minimum Depth: The minimum depth of required landscaped area, in feet, extending from one given line into the property; examples utilizing minimum depth include bufferyard landscaped areas and street yard landscaped areas.

Mulch: An organic or inorganic protective layer of material spread on the ground within planting beds to reduce evaporation, maintain even soil temperature, prevent erosion and control weeds. Organic mulch such as bark chips or shredded hardwood are preferred because they also enrich the soil nutrients as they decompose. Other mulch materials include lava rock, river pebbles, and granite chips.

Off Street Parking: Parking provided on private property for use by customers, employees, etc.

Screening: To visually shield or separate one abutting or nearby structure or use from another by the use of berms, fences, walls, plant materials, or other methods.

Shrub: A woody perennial plant having more than one main stem at the ground, usually attaining a height of less than 15 feet.

Street Front Yard: The area within the total street yard which lies adjacent to the more intensive street or faces the front of the building on a corner lot. Special requirements apply to these yards that do not apply to side or rear street yards.

Street Yard: The area of a lot which lies between any street property line and the fronting walls on all buildings within the lot.

Tree: A woody perennial plant having at least one main stem, usually attaining a height of more than 15 feet.