Roof-mounted, wall-mounted, and ground-mounted solar energy systems are permitted as utility-scale solar energy facilities, subject to the following regulations:
(a) Location and Setbacks. Solar energy systems must be located in the rear of the principal building. Solar energy systems must also meet the minimum setbacks of the zoning district.
(b) Height. The height of the solar energy system and any mounts must not exceed ten feet when oriented at maximum tilt.
(c) Screening. Evergreen landscaping, sight obscuring fencing, or the combination of the two, must be provided to screen the racking (i.e., the framing below the panels) from view on all sides.
(d) Power Lines. All power lines between solar panels and inverters must be placed underground.
(e) Performance Guarantee. All applications for a solar energy system must be accompanied by a performance guarantee sufficient to ensure the decommissioning and removal of the system when it is abandoned or no longer needed. Refer to Section 1281.04(f).
(f) Insurance. The applicant must submit proof of sufficient property damage and liability insurance.
(g) Utility Connection. The applicant must submit evidence that the utility company has been informed of the customer's intent to install an interconnected, customer-owned solar energy system and that such connection has been approved. Systems for on-site use are exempt from this requirement.
(Ord. 10-2020. Passed 11-24-20.)