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Council tightens multifamily landscaping and compliance language; allows irrigated plantings or artificial turf
Summary
The council approved code changes requiring irrigated landscape installations, stronger language for compliance and enforcement against developments that occupy or operate without full code approval, and clarified that multifamily and commercial projects must meet landscape standards (single-family excluded).
The Perry City Council on June 26 adopted ordinance amendments (listed as Ordinance 25-H in the packet) to clarify landscaping requirements for multifamily and commercial developments and to strengthen the city's ability to enforce landscaping obligations.
What the changes require - Landscaped areas for multifamily or commercial projects must be irrigated and may be planted with sod or artificial turf where appropriate; the code now calls for installed plantings rather than allowing only seeded, unirrigated areas. - The ordinance tightens language about occupied sites: developments occupied or operating without final approval or without fully complying with the chapter are listed as a violation and subject to enforcement remedies; staff noted state law limits the city's ability to withhold certificates of occupancy for landscaping shortfalls but said other enforcement options exist (fines, recorded notices of noncompliance).
Action and vote - Council moved and seconded adoption of the ordinance; roll-call vote was unanimous (Young, Walker, Osler, Wright, Tueller voted "Yes").
Why it matters Staff said the change responds to proposals that previously offered minimal or unirrigated seed for landscape obligations; requiring installed, irrigated landscape improves long-term outcomes and preserves the city's ability to ensure quality development.
Next steps Staff will apply the clarified landscaping standards to pending and future multifamily and commercial projects and may record notices of noncompliance or impose fines where code obligations are not met.
