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Part 9 – Landscaping Engineered Stormwater Devices

9.2    Means of Compliance

9.2.1    Location

Planting shall be located so that the integrity and efficient operation of the engineering stormwater device or any other infrastructural service or structure both within and adjacent to the site are not compromised in any way.

9.2.2    Site Preparation

In regard to adjacent water bodies and/or courses, ensure that no debris or chemical spray enters or impedes the functionality of the water body, whether it is natural or manmade.

9.2.3    Planting Zones

In addition to the aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits, plants in and around PSDs contribute to the stormwater device functional requirements such as trapping sediment and preventing scouring of the embankments.

The following planting zones define the planting regimes within PSDs. They are intended for stormwater ponds but can be applied to other PSDs and are based on vegetative tolerances to wet/damp roots and frequent/infrequent inundation. Refer to Table 9.2 for approved plant species. 

Due to site conditions and PSD configuration it may not be feasible for all Planting Zones to be used within a PSD. Consult with the Engineer to confirm the applicable Planting Zones. The Planting Zones are:

Wet Zone This area is where the pond ground surface is designed to be permanently submerged and where the plant roots may be permanently water logged.  Note: Council opinion is that “wet pond” type detention dams should be avoided if possible.
Marginal Zone This area is likely to be submerged or partially submerged in a 2-year return storm event.
Lower Bank Zone This is the planting zone between the Marginal Zone and Upper Bank Zone where plants may be occasionally submerged (storm events more severe than the 2-year return period storm). Plants are able to withstand inundation for short periods of time.
Upper Bank Zone This planting zone is generally above the spillway level.  Plants are able to sustain damp roots for periods but should not be fully inundated.