10.7.7 Parking Lot Planting

parking lot landscaping

landscaping to define edge of parking lot and provide a buffer

Parking lots are often the least attractive elements on a military installation.  The use of landscape plant material and earth berms can greatly improve the appearance of these areas as well as help define circulation and reduce heat gain during summer months.

• Use shade tree plantings at parking lots to reduce glare and moderate ambient air temperatures on the lot.  Optimum spacing of parking lot shade trees is 10 to 12 meters (35 to 40 feet) on center.

• Choose trees and shrubs that require minimum maintenance and will not litter the parking area with leaves, fruit, or nuts.

• Consider sight distances near entrances and exits when selecting and placing plant material.

• Select trees, shrubs, and groundcovers that can withstand harsher conditions, such as sun, glare, heat, high winds, and reduced water supply.

• Use a mix of evergreen and deciduous plant material to screen parking areas from adjacent uses.

Landscape Design Guidelines