Chapter 22C.270
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
Sections:
22C.270.020 Development standards.
22C.270.010 Purpose.
This chapter provides standards so that clean energy sources can be encouraged while ensuring compatibility of the energy system with the principal use of the property and minimizing adverse impacts on surrounding properties. (Ord. 2870 § 3, 2011).
22C.270.020 Development standards.
Solar panels or arrays are permitted as an accessory use to commercial and residential uses subject to the following conditions:
(1) The solar panel or array must not be located within a required setback, or on a structure within a required setback;
(2) Solar panels or arrays may extend above the base height for the zone; provided, that they are mounted at the minimum height necessary to generate usable energy;
(3) The solar panel or array shall not cause excessive glare or reflections so as to constitute a hazard to pedestrians and/or vehicular traffic;
(4) Any installation of a solar panel or array shall comply with any and all applicable provisions of the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Fire Code, and National Electrical Code;
(5) The solar panel, array, and/or accessory components located on the ground shall be located in the side or rear yards in residential zones, and screened with a minimum six-foot-tall, sight-obscuring fence in both residential and commercial zones. The community development director may waive or modify the screening requirement under the following circumstances:
(a) The screening will render the solar system ineffective and there are no suitable alternative locations on site to locate the solar system where screening is feasible; or
(b) Where abutting uses will not be adversely affected by an unscreened solar system due to existing physical improvements, physiographic features, landscaping and/or other factors.
(6) No interconnected solar energy system shall be installed unless evidence has been submitted to the city that the utility company has been informed of the customer’s intent to install an interconnected customer-owned, solar energy system. Off-grid systems shall be exempt from this requirement. (Ord. 2870 § 3, 2011).