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Lands of Kerns,225-03-ZP-SD Page 2 Landscape Screening Pursuant to Section 10-2.805(a), in evaluating the adequacy of proposed landscaping, the applicant must demonstrate that the shape, outline, color, and form of all structures will be unobtrusive when viewed from any location off-site at the time landscaping has matured. While the code does not require the planting of mature tree specimens, the intent of the code is not to allow the property owner to plant vegetation that, because of its small size or improper location, does not in fact provide landscape screening. The applicant's architect has argued that smaller trees grow faster than larger trees. However, this claim is debatable. Staff contacted a qualified arborist who reported that larger size trees from nurseries can grow faster than smaller size trees and that the key to success is to inspect the root system prior to planting. The growth rate argument is ultimately irrelevant in the sense that a slow growing properly sized tree that provides immediate screening is still the better choice over a puny, albeit fast growing, sapling that takes several years to provide screening benefits. The landscape plan proposes a variety of native plant species and is outstanding in this regard. However, properly located and adequately sized tree specimens along the north and east sides of the home are crucial to an effective screening plan for the new residence. Two nearby residents submitted written comments to the Planning Department objecting to the applicant's proposed landscape screening plan finding that it was inadequate. One neighbor retained the services of a landscape architect in order to develop a alternate landscape-screening plan that would provide more immediate screening on the northeast side of the residence. This Alternate plan was submitted to the Plaiuung Department and the applicant's architect on January 13, 2004 and is included as an attachment. The representatives of the applicant and the neighbor were able to reach partial agreement on the recommended location and number of trees perceived to be necessary for landscape screening. However, the actual size of the trees remains in question. The table below shows standard sizes for Coast Live Oak trees when purchased from nurseries: Catalog Specs. of Coast Live Oak Height Spread (Width) 15 gallon 8' 2' 36" box 12'-13' 5'-6' 48" box 14'-16' T-8' 60" box 16-18' 8'-9' Source: Valley Crest Tree Company