As the last remnants of winter melt away, Fort Worth residents are rolling up their sleeves to dig into spring landscaping. The city reminds green-thumbed citizens that city ordinances should guide their gardening gains. According to guidelines found on the City of Fort Worth, any significant landscaping endeavors must comply with the current zoning rules.
For those looking to refresh their home or business surroundings, be aware. The Development Services Department must review landscape plans for projects like new constructions or sizable additions to ensure they measure up. New projects covering more than 3,000 square feet or expanding floor areas by 30% or more must especially take note. The city requires a certain percentage of the area to be devoted to landscaping, and a preference for native plantings is articulated as one of two options to meet this need.
Private property isn't the only landscape under legislation. Fort Worth aims keenly to hit a 30% tree canopy coverage city-wide. To this branch of environmental effort, building permits tied to tree planting or tree removal must pass inspection. The beloved trees of Fort Worth aren't taken lightly, as the ordinance outlines specific "desirable and adapted trees" and entrusts urban forestry professionals with the discretion to approve plantings.
If a resident or contractor has to remove dying, hazardous, or healthy trees, it won't be on a whim. Development Services requires a proper permit for these actions, barring a single exemption for single-family homes on plots smaller than an acre. The Park & Recreation Department takes the reins when it comes to the greenery on city property or public spaces, providing guidelines and resources for those looking to plant or prune the urban canopy.
For those interested in joining the greening effort or needing more details to plan without violation, resources are within reach. Information about the initiatives and guidelines can be found on the City's and PARD Forestry's respective websites. Free trees and answers to other bark-and-branch-related inquiries are just a phone call away at 817-392-7933, keeping city dwellers in the loop with Fort Worth's quest for green growth.
