Athens City Code

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Caliper means a measurement of the tree trunk diameter measured at 2 1/2 feet above grade level.

Gross floor area means the total interior space as defined by the building code.

Impervious surfaces includes concrete, asphalt, brick, metal, or any other material constructed or erected on landscaped or natural buffer areas that impede the percolation of water into the ground.

Interior parking bay means all parking bays that do not qualify as a perimeter bay.

Landscaped area/landscape yard means an area to be planted with grass, trees, shrubs or other natural ground cover. No impervious surfaces are permitted in these areas.

Landscaped island means a landscaped area defined by a curb and surrounded by paving on all sides.

Landscaped peninsula means a landscaped area defined by a curb and surrounded by paving on three sides.

Natural buffer means an area of land set aside for preservation in its natural vegetative state. Plants may not be removed, with the exception of poisonous or non-native plant species or plants that have died that pose a risk to public safety. In addition, fill/cutting activities, storage of materials, and impervious surfaces are not permitted in these areas.

New development. Construction of a new building or structure on its own lot is considered as new development. New buildings or structures constructed on a lot which already contains existing buildings is considered as an expansion.

Perimeter bay means all parking bays that are adjacent to the perimeter of a development.

Screening shrubs means evergreen shrubs that maintain their foliage year-round.

Screening trees means evergreen trees that maintain their foliage year-round.

Street yard means a designated landscaped area where private property abuts the public street right-of-way for planting of grass, trees, and shrubs.