One of the primary goals is to minimize the disturbance of existing ecological systems and to preserve existing vegetation (trees, shrubs, and groundcover). Owners and builders may not remove trees prior to final approval of plans by the NCC. Trees may be cut after such approval only for clearing for driveways and building pads. All other tree cutting must be approved as part of the landscape plan.
The following measures will be undertaken to ensure preservation of existing vegetation:
A tree survey shall be completed (in conjunction with other required survey work). Eight inch or larger trees and major tree cluster perimeters should be located prior to schematic design; at the time of the initial design conference a tree survey covering all areas that will be affected by construction will be necessary.
The tree survey shall be used as an aid in developing preliminary plans. Tree preservation should be a high priority in sighting of buildings, parking, drives and other site elements.
Final plans must clearly delineate trees to be preserved and a limit of disturbance line. This should be cross referenced with all aspects of the development such as utilities, grading, layout, etc.
The limit of disturbance line must be protected with fencing, conspicuous and high enough to be seen by equipment operators. Temporary fencing must be installed far enough from the tree to prevent compaction and puddling over the root system and large enough to include the area within the drip line. No grading shall take place within the drip line of trees to be preserved. Sensitive root systems fall within this area and must be protected.
No equipment storage or parking will be allowed within these preservation areas. Weed and debris removal within these areas must be done with hand tools.
Fencing must be installed prior to any clearing or construction and must be maintained in good condition until construction is completed.
It is the builder’s responsibility to enforce these standards with all subcontractors and utility companies throughout the entire construction process. If any disturbance occurs within areas designated to be preserved, these areas must be revegetated with large shade trees (minimum 5” cal. At a rate of 1 tree per every 300 sq. feet disturbed).
