04-18-1991 Workshop Session of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Page 11 of 13 VI. SECTION 5-800 RESIDENTIAL SCREENING: Staff is requesting the Commission to consider amending the screening requirements of Section 5-800. There are several uses and activities which under Zoning Ordinance requirements, must be screened. Section 5-800 which is located on pages 32 and 33 of The Zoning Ordinance, is a typical example of these standards. While these standards appear to be practical in most applications, a review of screening standards as they apply to parking requirements is in order. The problem with parking lot screening is one of security. Seclusion increases the likelihood of parking lot users being subjected to robbery and assault. With this having been said, it is still not appropriate to abandon the intent of these requirements. Parking lots in or abutting residential uses can detract from the adjacent neighborhoods. An alternate scheme which "softens" the impact while maintaining public visibility, is accomplished by landscape beds interspersed with tree planting. An example of this type of example was used in conjunction with the San Jacinto College parking expansion. The result has proven to be an effective buffer area that satisfies the college's legitimate security concerns. The following proposed amendment to Section 5-800, which has been retitled "Landscape Buffers", addresses this issue. SECTION 5-800 A LANDSCAPE BUFFERS: 1) A landscape buffer planted with grass or evergreen ground cover and also planted with trees shall be provided. No buildings or refuse containers shall be placed in such areas. 2) Standards a. Minimum width of planting strip - four feet (4'). b. A planting plan specifying the location and species of trees to be planted as well as the type of grass or ground cover to be utilized shall be submitted for approval of the Director of Community Development or his duly authorized representative.