(A) Solar energy generation equipment may be installed in all zoning districts as an accessory use and shall comply with the following requirements:
(1) Placements of solar collectors on a gabled, hipped, or mansard roof shall be mounted parallel to and no more than 12 inches from the roof surface, and shall not extend more than 18 inches above the maximum permitted building height in the zone district.
(2) Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems shall be permitted subject to the requirements of the Ohio Building Code.
(3) Solar energy equipment shall be located in a manner to minimize view blockage for surrounding properties and shading of property to the north, while still providing adequate solar access for collectors.
(4) Ground-mounted solar collectors are permitted as accessory structures in all zoning districts, subject to the following requirements:
(a) The solar collector is located in a rear yard and meets all applicable requirements for accessory structures.
(b) The solar collectors do not emit unreasonable glare and negatively impact adjacent properties.
(c) The surface area of solar collectors is not more than 2% of the lot.
(d) If a solar collector ceases to perform its originally intended function for more than 12 consecutive months, the property owner shall remove the collector, mount, and associated equipment no later than 90 days after the end of the 12-month period.
(B) Solar energy generation as a principal use (solar farm) shall require submittal of a site plan application concurrent with a conditional use application. The development shall be subject to the following supplemental criteria:
(1) Physical access to a solar farm shall be restricted by fencing or walls. Razor wire is prohibited. All fencing and wall details shall be shown on the required site plan.
(2) Devices that capture energy and convert it to electricity shall not be placed in wetlands or environmentally sensitive lands.
(3) All devices that capture and convert energy to electricity shall be located at least 50 feet from any lot line under separate ownership.
(4) All solar farms must comply with the landscaping, screening, and buffering requirements.
(5) On-site power lines shall be placed underground to the maximum extent possible.
(6) All solar energy equipment is considered structures and subject to the requirements for such, together with all other applicable Ohio Building Codes and other legislation.
(Ord. 2022-25, passed 3-21-2022)