LEBANON — The first test of the city's new architecture rules will come tonight, when the planning commission considers Home Depot's site plan.

        The rules, passed by City Council last month, restrict the designs and materials used on the exterior of retail and office buildings. For example, walls must be brick, stone or wood in most instances.

        It also calls for “big-box” stores — such as Home Depot — to vary the roofline and use other architectural features to make them look less boxy.

        “Of all the ones to come in first as a test case, this is a big box,” Planning Director Marty Kohler said Monday of Home Depot.

        The home improvement giant plans to build on Ohio 48, replacing an old-style big box, Erb Lumber, that has sat vacant for more than a year.

        “We're excited to see that site finally used for something,” Mr. Kohler said. The city considered buying the building last year for a recreation center, but the price was too high.

        The site will be the biggest test yet of the city's year-old landscape ordinance, Mr. Kohler said. The ordinance requires 20 trees per acre for new residential and commercial construction — amounting to more than 230 trees at the proposed Home Depot.

        “This will be the most heavily landscaped big box you will ever see,” Mr. Kohler said.

        Home Depot officials could not be reached for comment.

IF YOU GO
              

        • What: Lebanon Planning Commission meeting.

        • When: 7:30 tonight.

        • Where: City building, 50 N. Broadway,

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