A. Minimum Lot Size: The minimum lot size for a small wind energy conversion system shall be one-half (1/2) acre (21,780 square feet). There is no minimum lot size requirement for micro wind systems.
B. Maximum Tower Height: The maximum tower height for a small wind energy conversion system on a property between one-half (1/2) acre and one acre in size shall be seventy feet (70'). The maximum tower height on properties between 1.01 acres and five (5) acres in size shall be one hundred feet (100'). On properties larger than five (5) acres, there is no limitation on tower height, except as imposed by FAA regulations.
C. Minimum Setbacks: Minimum setbacks for a tower shall be equal to the height of the tower. No part of the small wind energy conversion system structure, including, but not limited to, guywire anchors, may extend closer than ten feet (10') to the property line.
D. Sound: Micro wind systems and small wind energy conversion systems shall not exceed sixty (60) dBA, measured five feet (5') above ground level at the closest property line. The sound level, however, may be exceeded during short term events such as utility outages and/or severe windstorms.
E. Turbine Clearance: No portion of any turbine shall extend within twenty feet (20') of the ground. No portion of any turbine may extend over parking areas, driveways, or sidewalks.
F. Automatic Overspeed Controls: All micro wind systems and small wind energy conversion systems shall be equipped with manual (electronic or mechanical) and automatic overspeed controls to limit the blade rotation speed to within the design limits of the micro wind system or small wind energy conversion system.
G. Utility Notification: No micro wind system or small wind energy conversion system shall be installed until evidence has been given that the electrical utility company has been informed of, and approved the customer's intent to install an interconnected customer owned generator. Off grid systems shall be exempt from this requirement.
H. Tower Color: Tower colors shall be white, off white, gray, or neutral subdued tones, such as earth tones of green or brown. Towers shall not be finished in bright or vivid colors, nor shall the tower be used for advertising of any kind.
I. Lighting: Micro wind systems and small wind energy conversion systems shall not be artificially lighted, except as required by the FAA.
J. Climb Prevention: Small wind energy conversion systems shall not be climbable up to fifteen feet (15') above the ground surface. (Ord. 2012-1, 4-17-2012)