Franklin Zoning Ordinance

12 200 Chapter  LANDSCAPE Franklin Zoning Ordinance Effective December 30, 2019 maintenance of the buffer area and the required screening is still met; and 5. Driveway s or internal drives , provided they cross the buffer at a 90-degree angle and do not encroach into the buffer in a parallel fashion for more than 35 feet. C. In the event that utilities are installedwithin a buffer in a manner that is parallel to the buffer, additional width shall be added to the buffer in an amount equivalent to the amount occupied by the utility lines and any associated easements . Any path cleared by utility installation shall be replaced with plant materials consistent with what was removed. 12.7.6 Credit for Existing Vegetation A. Existing vegetation within the buffer may be credited toward the buffer requirement if it meets the minimum size requirement. Existing vegetation listed on the Tennessee Exotic plant council list shall not be credited. B. The DRT may reduce or waive the buffer requirements if an existing buffer has been recorded on an adjacent property that achieves the intent of this Section. 12.8 Street Trees 12.8.1 Where Required Street trees shall be required along both sides of all streets and internal drives , except undeveloped edges of natural areas and as required in Section 4.9, Scenic Corridor Overlay District. Street trees shall be planted within either tree pits or planting strips . 12.8.2 Tree Pits A. Tree pits shall comply with the following: Minimum Surface Area Minimum Width on One Side Additional Requirements 25 square feet 4 feet Underground tree structural support system not required 9 square feet 3 feet Underground tree structural support system is required B. Tree pits shall be placed adjacent to the back of the curb. C. Tree pits shall include irrigation systems and structural soils or screened backfill to ensure appropriate root growth and drainage. Figure 12.8.2.A Tree Pits Tree Pits