12.4 Landscape Considerations

use landscape elements as an attractive way to meet force protection requirements

landscaping must meet the clear zone and standoff zone requirements

Landscaping guidelines for buildings should not be ignored because of standoff distances.  The landscape design should enhance the overall attractiveness of the facility while still providing the objective level of security.

• Establish clear zones along both sides of security fencing.  Vegetation in the clear zone should not exceed four inches in height.  (DoD 0-2000.12-H, Protection of DoD Personnel and Activities Against Acts of Terrorism and Political Turbulence, Appendix EE, Table EE-4)  

• Strategically locate trees and planters to prevent penetration of an attack vehicle into the secure area perimeter.

• Vegetative groupings and earth sheltering berms provide inherent blast effect reduction from external blast forces.

• Plant material that can provide concealment will not be used adjacent to high security structures or fence lines.

• Use dense, thorn-bearing plant material to create natural barriers that will deter aggressors.

• Screen playground and outdoor recreation areas from public (off-installation) view.

• Unobstructed Space.  Ensure that vegetation and site features within 10 meters (33 feet) of inhabited buildings do not conceal from observation objects of 150mm (6 inches) in height.  (UFC 4-010-01 , Appendix B, Para B-1.2)  This does not preclude landscaping within the unobstructed space, but it will affect the design and may affect plant selection.

Force Protection Design Standards