17.80.060 Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS).
   (a)   Wind Energy Conversion Systems shall be classified into three (3) categories.
      (1)   Category One, consist of large WECS that have one or more units producing power for sale. This category generates power in excess of 500 Kw and does not provide power for onsite use. These systems require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit and Location and Development Plan and are allowed in the Manufacturing/Industrial (MI), Airport Development District (ADD), Public Utilities (PU) and Open Space, Public Land and Schools (OS) zones.
      (2)   Category Two, consist of medium WECS that provide power for existing onsite structures. These systems may have more than one unit but produce 500 Kw or less. These systems require the approval of a Minor Conditional Use Permit and Site Plan and are allowed in all zoning districts except Single Family Residential (R-S1, R1, R1-.5, R-S5) and Desert Living (DL-9, DL-5, DL-2.5).
      (3)   Category Three, consist of WECS that provide power for existing onsite single family residential structures. These systems may have more than one unit but produce 25 Kw or less. These systems require the approval of a site plan and can be pole/tower or roof mounted.
   (b)   WECS installed in the DL zone may be 75' in height. All others shall comply with height limitations for the zoning district they are installed in.
   (c)   All ground mounted pole/tower WECS shall be set back from property lines a distance that equals the total height of the system and shall have a locked anti-climb device installed or be un-climbable by design for the first 12 feet.
   (d)   All pole mounted WECS shall be of the self supporting monopole type. WECS requiring the use of guyed wires are only permitted in the DL zone.
   (e)   No WECS shall emit sounds which exceed 65 decibels at any time as measured from the property line.
   (f)   All on-site wiring for WECS shall be installed underground.
   (g)   All WECS shall be installed and operated so that the public health, safety, and welfare of neighboring property owners or occupants will not be jeopardized.
[Ord. No. 502, Section 5, 4/27/11; Ord. No. 515, Exhibit K, 5/22/13; Ord No. 528, Exhibit Q, 9/10/14.]