The landscaping, screening and natural resource sections of the code were formerly overseen by the Natural Resource Division that was under Parks and then moved to Public Works.  That position was eliminated in 2017.

Planning staff now review all of the relevant plans.  As part of that process, we have received feedback that certain areas are too punitive, like not excluding certain spiecies of trees from being counted towards tree replacement.  There are also have been instances when buffering has been asked for between residential uses.  Those sections have all been modified and additional examples and pictures have now been included in the code to show what the code or section is trying to accomplish.  Staff has also found that the smaller diameter trees have not survived as well because of wind, snow being plowed against them and damage in parking lots and streets.  We are proposing to increase the diameter depending on location.