§ 8178-8.4.1.6. Mulch.

To conserve moisture and improve the fertility and health of the soil, a layer of mulch shall be applied to landscape areas as follows:

a.

Whenever possible, prior to any earth disturbance, topsoil shall be removed and stockpiled for future use. Topsoil shall be spread as the final surface layer of soil (prior to the application of mulch) in the landscape area, except when the soil is characterized by invasive plants and seeds.

b.

Exposed soil in all non-turf and non-groundcover landscape areas shall be covered with at least three (3) inches of mulch but no more than twelve (12) inches in depth.

c.

Except as allowed by Section 8178-8.4.1.6.d. below, organic mulch materials shall be used in required landscape areas. Composted organic material is preferred over other products such as bark and wood chips.

d.

The following inorganic materials may be used in conjunction with organic mulch, subject to the following limitations:

1.

Plastic: Opaque plastic tarps may be used to cover an area of soil for the purpose of killing weeds and preventing germination of weed seeds. Plastic tarps shall be temporary and removed within six (6) to eight (8) weeks from the date of installation.

2.

Stone/Gravel: May be used for stormwater management landscaping. When used for other purposes, stone/gravel is considered hardscape subject to the limitations specified by Section 8178-8.3.b.

3.

Sand: May be used to improve the drainage characteristics of the soil.

4.

Landscape Fabric: On property with steep slopes, landscape fabric may be used to control erosion and stabilize or protect plants from rain water and soil washout. A minimum two (2) to three (3) inches of organic mulch shall be placed over the landscape fabric to prevent weed growth and to promote plant growth.

e.

Mulch is not considered groundcover for the purpose of meeting minimum landscape requirements.

(Ord. No. 4492, § 6, 6-21-2016)