(A) Use determination. The Zoning Administrator shall determine if a system is a solar farm or a solar array based on its intended purpose and on the criteria for accessory uses outlined in this chapter.
(B) Building-mounted solar energy systems. Building-mounted solar energy systems are permitted by right within all zoning districts and are exempt from further regulation of this section.
(C) Ground-mounted solar energy systems.
(1) Solar farms.
(a) Solar farms are permitted in the A-1 - Agriculture District and I - Industrial District.
(b) Site plans for solar farms shall include the following: the number and location of inverters, solar panels, access drives, grid interconnection, and any other information required by the Zoning Administrator. Inverters shall be located at least 150' from property lines.
(c) Solar farms located within 500 feet of a residential use must provide a landscape buffer such that shrubs and trees shall be provided with one tree and three shrubs for every 40 linear feet or fraction thereof along the lot lines. Alternative planting plans that create a sufficient barrier may be approved by the Zoning Administrator.
(d) Solar farms must comply with applicable state and local regulations, including the Village of Argenta Code of Ordinances.
(2) Solar arrays.
(a) Solar arrays are permitted in all zoning districts.
(b) Solar arrays must:
1. Meet all criteria for accessory structures outlined in this chapter; and
2. Comply with all other sections of this chapter governing accessory structures.
(c) Solar arrays are excluded from gross floor area calculations.
(d) The area beneath a solar array is considered open space if the following criteria apply:
1. It comprises no more than 50% of the lot area when combined with areas covered by paving for sidewalks, leisure, and recreational areas such as patios, tennis courts, and swimming pools;
2. It does not comprise more than 25% of the total open space; and
3. There is a minimum clearance of seven feet six inches between the ground level and the underside of the solar panel assembly.
(e) Solar arrays located in a residential district must be located behind the front face of the principal structure.
(Ord. 23-11-20 Ord03, passed 11-20-2023)