Streetscape

The information and guidelines contained herein are to be used whenever applicable. In the event a development is to be constructed in stages, master utility plans are required prior to submittal of the first stage improvement plans. The master utility plans shall show all improvements, including interim (phased) and ultimate improvements. For information regarding these guidelines contact the Land Development Section of the Engineering Division, at (408) 586-3329.

Shrubs, Groundcovers and Vines Adobe Icon

Street Trees Adobe Icon

Street Tree Species Selection and Spacing Guidelines (Except for Main and Abel)

  1. General Tree Selection & Initial Tree Size
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    • The City Standard is that 24" box and 36" box trees be used on streetscape projects. Street trees should conform to the following specifications for size and height:
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    • Recommended Initial Size Street Tree Standards
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    • Size

      Height

      Caliper Size (Trunk 6" above ground)

      Minimum DiameterRoot Ball for B&B

      36" Box

      14' - 16'

      2 1/2 - 3 1/2"

      28”-38”

      24" Box

      10' - 14'

      1 1/2 - 2 1/2"

      20" - 28"
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    • In general, the tree species and size selection is a cooperative decision between property owners and city street trees division staff, except for the major streets. Trees must be selected from the official tree list and be adaptable to the conditions at the planting site. The following guidelines should also be considered in making the final determination. 
    •  
    • For Detail information on Tree Species and Streetscape Design refer to City of Milpitas Streetscape Master Plan. To obtain a copy contact City of Milpitas Parks and recreation at 586-2601.
  1. Tree Spacing
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    • Recommend Street Tree Spacing
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    • Mature canopy size

      Typical Spacing

      Spacing for Canopy Overlap

      20 – 30 foot canopy diameter

      20 - 30 foot spacing

      15 – 20 foot spacing

      30 – 40 foot canopy diameter

      30 - 40 foot spacing

      20 – 25 foot spacing

      40 – 50 foot canopy diameter

      40 - 50 foot spacing

      25 – 30 foot spacing
    •  
    • The Streetscape Master Plan has been organized to provide basic background, recommendations and guidelines for streetscape design, installation and maintenance throughout the City of Milpitas.
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  1. Species Characteristics Table
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    • A Species Characteristic Table (Shrubs, Groundcovers and Vines Adobe Icon or Street Trees Adobe Icon) identifies the mature height and shape as well as other species characteristics. As each streetscape project is developed, the project designer will use these tools to select appropriate tree and other plant species.
Engineering Department Hours:
455 East Calaveras Boulevard Monday-Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Main Phone: (408) 586-3300  

The documents above are in PDF format. The files requires an Adobe Acrobat Reader, which may be downloaded for free by clicking on the icon below.

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