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Board backs landscape ordinance expanding xeriscape options and restricting some materials
Summary
The board voted to recommend a landscape ordinance that defines xeriscape allowances, sets an 80% xeriscape cap for certain lots, specifies a minimum crushed-stone diameter (0.375 in.), and prohibits cypress mulch for conservation reasons.
The Planning & Zoning Board recommended that the City Commission adopt a set of ordinance amendments that clarify landscape definitions, decorative-stone allowances, ground-cover rules, and setback encroachments.
Dave Dixon presented the draft ordinance changes, which create a clarified definition of xeriscape, allow up to 80% xeriscape on certain parcels (with examples and diagrams), and add a minimum crushed-stone diameter of 0.375 inches to reduce erosion and potential chemical runoff into canals. Staff said the changes respond to prior board requests. Board members queried whether the ordinance would regulate seasonal pesticide/fertilizer use (staff: not currently), and asked why cypress mulch is prohibited; staff and members explained the prohibition is intended to avoid encouraging harvesting of a sensitive resource.
Fred moved to recommend approval to the City Commission; the motion passed unanimously on roll call (Michael Cohen — Favor; Fred McLean — Yes; Susan Motley — Yes; Bill Gallo — Yes; Dennis Smith — Yes). Members said the package will help give clearer guidance to homeowners and builders while allowing staff to require landscape plan details at the permit stage.
