[Nicole Masson]

To add to John’s response, typically, we hear two reasons for these landscape ordinances being created. The first is the waterwise component, the second is the aesthetics. 50% of the plant material at full maturity should be the maximum of what the code should state, as opposed to at the time of planting. 50% at the time of planting will generally cause less waterwise design due to plant intensity and significant overgrowth. In addition, only drip irrigation systems should be allowed within these beds by code. That said, if you reduce the plant material from 50% at full maturity, I would add language into the code that provides at least 2-3 contrasting (in size and color) material groundcovers to make up for the loss of plant material. If you leave the 50% plant coverage at full maturity, you can add the tree canopy as included plant coverage, but at a discounted rate (at the tree’s maturity).

 

We have written several of these landscape ordinances as well, and over planting is a common issue with many of the codes we have seen. I also agree with John on the use of similar plants if specific plants are prescribed within the code.

-Chris Hupp

[Nicole Masson]

Having done a couple of these, the 50% seems pretty standard out there, but I agree with your concern Brad, that maybe we are not really accomplishing enough water savings. I’m not an LA, so no real training there, just experience with a few ordinances. Boulders and nowadays veggie planter boxes out front are great additions to xeric landscapes. do the veggie boxes save water? I doubt it, but they serve another purpose of locally grown food.

I think the way the xeric landscape is defined needs flexibility. Also, I have seen some that don’t provide for the long-term canopy of a tree – I think that shade area, even though it might not be there for a while, really matters. I’m unsure how the so-called best practices have been studied for all their impacts or unintended consequences.

Also, a recent Weber U study showed that rock mulch isn’t as hot as the dark bark mulch – if you are concerned about too many rocks showing up and creating more heat island effects.

Plant lists – I think they are helpful, but likely need updating every few years. Also, when actual installation occurs, often the plants designated on the landscape plan are not available – there needs to be flexibility for “similar” plants (as determined by planning staff). Comparative info is available and should be allowed.
-John Janson

[Nicole Masson]

Thanks for sharing! I think this would make a great session for our upcoming spring conference if you guys are interested in submitting?

[Nicole Masson]

Hi Brandon!

[Nicole Masson]

Following

[Nicole Masson]

Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants! 

Shared by Nick Reithel  https://www.usda.gov/farming-and-ranching/agricultural-education-and-outreach/urban-agriculture-and-innovative-production/urban-agriculture-and-innovative-production-grants

There’s a YouTube video and FAQ.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63snY3AZrvc

https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fy-2025-uaip-competitive-grants-program-faqs.pdf

• This reply was modified 5 months, 1 week ago by Nicole Masson.

[Nicole Masson]

Here are a few templates and checklists provided by municipal planning departments:

• Draper City- Planning Services Portal
• Washington City- Planning & Zoning Resources
• Clearfield City- Planning Applications and Checklists
• Provo City- Planning Division Resources
• Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District- Subdivision Checklist 

What templates or checklists make your work easier? Share your go-to resources!

[Nicole Masson]

Tips for Securing Funding:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the websites of these organizations for announcements on funding opportunities and application deadlines.
• Engage with Regional Planning Authorities: Collaborate with regional councils and associations of governments, as they often have insights into available funding and can provide technical assistance. WFRC, MAG,  SCAOG, FCAOG, SERDA, UBAOG, BRAG, ULCT, & State of Utah-Division of Community Development
• Prepare Comprehensive Applications: Ensure that grant applications clearly articulate the planning project’s objectives, benefits, and alignment with funding criteria.
• Attend Workshops and Training: Participate in grant writing workshops and training sessions offered by state agencies to enhance your application skills.

[Nicole Masson]

Thank you for sharing this!

[Nicole Masson]

Hello! Yes, we are working on putting the slides that have been turned in onto the website. They will be under the “conference” tab, APA UT- 2024. Hopefully, they will be live by the end of the month.

 

[Nicole Masson]

I’d suggest the open house, then a survey, or vice versa before any PC public hearing.  Create an info piece on your web page with a link to a survey.  Make sure the info piece is factual not opinions.

-John Janson

[Nicole Masson]

Brian, I think this sounds like a fantastic idea. I would send out an email to your area as we are still working on getting people on to this forum ;).

[Nicole Masson]

That would seem to depend on what the easement is for. If there are underground utilities, walls can be a problem. Above ground, the companies involved likely have clearance standards to check on. Where you have sloped properties and “it is just our tradition” to place a PUI around every lot- I’d say it is up to you but check with engineering first.

-John Janson

[Nicole Masson]

I’d just suggest considering how that changes what has been your standard for years.  Is there an incremental change that could make sense, such as external downlit “goose arm” type lights.  if you go with an internal you might need to address the amount of light allowed, flashing lights, do you want to go to digital/electronic boards that allow for changing messaging, etc.

John Janson

[Nicole Masson]

This really is a local policy decision – are you trying to encourage this affordable housing alternative or not or something in between.  I think there is no right answer – just have to figure how important having a detached ADU is to addressing the housing crisis. I’ve seen quite a few waive park fees.  The occasional additional unit (and they are occasional – ADUs are not going to show up on every lot (a fear I hear a lot)), likely does not impact your infrastructure in a significant way. 

 John Janson

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