§ 39-82. Existing and imported soils.

(a)

Existing topsoil or imported topsoil.

(1)

Where landscape plans are required, applicants are encouraged to seek a soil test and analysis, performed by a reputable soil testing lab, to determine soil texture, percentage of organic matter, measurement of pH, total soluble salts, and estimated soil infiltration rate.

(2)

Existing horticulturally-suitable topsoil onsite shall be stockpiled and respread during final site grading.

(3)

Any imported topsoil required shall be similar to the existing soil in pH, texture, permeability, and other characteristics, unless demonstrated to the EPGMD that a different type of soil amendment approach is justified. Further, existing or imported topsoil:

a.

Shall be free of roots, clods, stones larger than three-fourths (¾) inch in the greatest dimension, pockets of coarse sand, noxious weeds, sticks, lumber, brush, and other litter. It shall not be infested with undesirable disease-causing organisms such as insects and plant pathogens; and

b.

For all planting areas, shall be composed of a minimum of thirty percent (30%) muck or horticulturally-acceptable organic material.

(b)

Mechanically mixed planting soil.

(1)

Mechanically mixed planting soil is typically identified as being composed of sandy loam (fifty percent (50%) coarse sand and fifty percent (50%) muck), typical of the locality, or as specified. At a minimum, mechanically mixed planting soil must meet the following requirements:

a.

Gradation limits - soil shall be a sandy loam, loam, or clay loam. The definition of soil texture shall be the USDA classification scheme. Gravel over one-quarter (¼) inch in diameter shall be less than twenty percent (20%) by weight.

b.

Permeability rate - hydraulic conductivity rate shall be not less than one inch (1") per hour nor more than twenty inches (20") per hour, when tested in accordance with the USDA Handbook Number 60 (Diagnosis and Improvement of Saline and Alkaline Soils), method 34b, Hydraulic Conductivity of Disturbed Soils, or other approved method.

c.

Fertility - the range of the essential elemental concentration in soil shall be as specified for its intended use.

(2)

The use of solid waste compost as a soil amendment is encouraged, where it is appropriate.

(Ord. No. 2017-15 , § 7, 5-23-17)