(a) Purpose and applicability. The purpose of the SECS overlay zone is to encourage investment in solar energy while providing guidelines for the installation of solar facilities that complement the surrounding environment. All SECS shall comply with all applicable provisions of the city codes and the standards of this section.
(b) Approvals required. An applicant shall submit for and receive approval of a project-specific General Plan Amendment and Zone Change authorizing a SECS overlay zoning designation, a Conditional Use Permit, a Location and Development Plan, and a building permit prior to construction of a SECS, unless the SECS is otherwise allowed pursuant to Section 17.80.071 of this Chapter.
(c) Design requirements.
(1) Barbed wire is acceptable on the top of the perimeter fence to provide site security, but razor wire is prohibited.
(2) Portable restroom facilities shall be provided on the project site for use by maintenance staff.
(3) Per the direction of the director of public works, an applicant shall dedicate right-of-way for all necessary street improvements.
(d) CUP Findings.
(1) The SECS conforms with the Adelanto North 2035 Sustainable Plan policy LC 4.4, which states, “Promote the use of solar, wind, and other alternative energy generation systems as part of new planned development.”
(2) The SECS conforms with Subsections (b) through (e) of Section 17.80.070 of this Chapter.
(3) The SECS will not, at the location proposed:
A. Be materially detrimental to the use, enjoyment, or valuation of property of other persons located in the vicinity of the site because the proposed panels are within the height regulations of the rural residential zones and are designed with adequate setbacks from the adjacent street.
B. Jeopardize, endanger, or otherwise constitute a menace to the public health, safety, or general welfare because adequate sewer, water, and drainage improvements will be part of the project.
(4) The SECS will not substantially adversely affect other nearby uses because all aesthetic, noise, and other environmental concerns will be mitigated through various design features, including screening and the use of silent or low-noise equipment.
(5) The proposed site is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the SECS and other development features prescribed in the zoning ordinance or as otherwise required to integrate said use with surrounding uses.
(6) The proposed site is adequately served by the surrounding streets, which are of sufficient width and improved as necessary to carry the anticipated daily vehicle trips such use would generate; and by other public and private service facilities, including sewer, water, fire, and police services, as required.
(7) The proposed use will not result in a significant effect on the environment because all potential impacts have been found to be less than significant with the inclusion of mitigation measures or are determined to be acceptable due to overriding considerations.
[Ord. No. 618, Attachment F, 12/9/20.]