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Section 8.33

Solar Panel Energy Systems

Freestanding solar panels shall be considered an accessory building and shall be subject to the following requirements for such, together with all other applicable building codes and ordinances:

Solar energy systems are a permitted use in all zoning districts except solar energy commercial operations, which are prohibited as a principle use except in the I-2 industrial district. (These are systems whose main purpose is to generate energy for sale back into the energy grid system, rather than being consumed on site.
1. Solar energy systems are subject to the following:
  1. Roof mounted systems on the principal building shall not exceed the height limits in the district, nor be more than three (3) feet higher than the finished roof to which it is mounted, whichever is less. In no instance shall any part of the system extend beyond the edge of the roof.
  2. Ground mounted systems and systems attached to accessory buildings shall adhere to the setback requirements in the district.
  3. Solar energy systems are prohibited in front yards and shall not be located past the front wall of the principle building.
  4. The number of solar panels and supporting equipment shall be considered as one system.
  5. Ground mounted solar energy systems shall not be categorized as accessory buildings.
  6. If solar energy systems are attached to accessory buildings the number of accessory buildings allowed shall be regulated in accordance with the provisions set forth in Section 8.0., Accessory Buildings, Structures, and Uses.
  7. The height of ground mounted solar energy systems and systems included on accessory buildings shall not exceed 10 feet in height.
  8. No more than 20% of a lot may be covered with a solar energy system.
  9. Ground mounted systems shall be located on lots of one half (1/2) acre or more.
  10. Zoning and construction permits are required.