Review Draft Ordinance Amendment Related to Alternative Landscapes

Attached to this case is a draft Ordinance Amendment related to the installation and/or maintenance of an alternative landscape.  The Environmental Policy Board (EPB) has previously provided feedback and input in terms of what should be included in updated regulations.  Staff has attempted to incorporate that input and feedback into this draft Ordinance Amendment.  The following are some of the 'highlights' of the Ordinance Amendment: :

• Within the MUSA boundary, a minimum setback of three (3) feet is required from all property lines, roads, sidewalks, and trails unless the managed natural landscape abuts another private or public managed landscape area; or a wetland, pond, lake, stream or river.  Alternatively, no setback would apply if a fully opaque fence at least four (4) feet in height either exists or is installed along the lot line of the managed natural landscape area.  In the Rural Residential District, no setback is required.
• Planting or replanting shall be by transplant or seeding by human or mechanical means.  This means that a property owner cannot simply stop mowing their property to let it go 'wild' or 'natural'.    
• If the managed natural landscape area is in a location visible to the public, a small (12" x 12" maximum) sign is required until there is less than 25% weeds.
• Until such time that there is less than 25% weeds, the managed natural landscape area will need to be mowed to a height of not more than eight (8) inches at least once per year (this helps prevent weeds from going to seed).
• The maximum duration to establish a managed natural landscape is three (3) years.
• Provides specific detail in terms of what information must be included in the management plan submitted to the city for review/approval.

This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties.

Either recommend City Council adopt the Ordinance Amendment or provide direction to Staff regarding desired or necessary revisions.  If the latter option is chosen, Staff will make the directed/requested revisions and bring the updated document back to the EPB for final review at a future meeting.

Based on discussion.