(A) Existing utility poles and town utility poles associated with small wireless facilities. The maintenance, modification, operation or replacement of existing qualifying utility poles and qualifying town utility poles associated with small wireless facilities are subject to the following requirements: height. Each modified or replacement utility pole or town utility pole shall not exceed:
(1) Forty feet above the ground level on property zoned for or used as single-family residential property, or in the right-of-way adjacent to such property, where existing utilities are installed underground; or
(2) Fifty feet above ground level on all other property. Each new small wireless facility shall not extend more than ten feet above the associated utility pole, town utility pole or wireless support structure on which it is collocated.
(B) Small wireless facilities. All requirements of this division (B) apply to small wireless facilities located on a utility pole, town utility pole or wireless support structure.
(C) Public safety. In order to protect public safety:
(1) No replacement utility poles or town utility poles associated with a small wireless facility are permitted in the clear zone as defined in the town’s Standard Specifications and Details Manual unless such replacement pole is breakaway rated;
(2) No portion of a utility pole or town utility pole associated with a small wireless facility may be placed in the public right-of-way in a manner that:
(a) Results in the obstruction of pedestrians or vehicular or bicycle access, or of sight lines or visibility for traffic, traffic signage or signals, or interferes with access by persons with disabilities. An applicant may be required to place equipment in vaults to avoid obstructions or interference; or
(b) Involves placement of pole-mounted equipment lowest point is lower than eight feet above ground level.
(D) objective design standards for support structures. Utility poles or town utility poles associated with a small wireless facility shall be blended with the natural surroundings as much as possible. Colors and materials shall be used that are compatible with the surrounding area, except when otherwise required by applicable federal or state regulations. Utility poles or town utility poles associated with a small wireless facility shall be located, designed and/or screened to blend in with the existing natural or built surroundings to reduce the visual impacts as much as possible, and to be compatible with neighboring land uses and the character of the community.
(E) Stealth and concealment. All small wireless facilities shall be stealth facilities. Antenna and accessory equipment must be shrouded or otherwise concealed.
(F) Historic preservation. Utility poles or town utility poles associated with a small wireless facility located in a designated historic district or on property designated as a landmark (pursuant to G.S. Ch. 160A, Art. 19, § 3C) shall be required to obtain a certificate of appropriateness.
(G) Applicable codes. Utility poles and town utility poles associated with a small wireless facility must meet applicable codes.
(Ord. passed 8-12-2019)