Solar energy collection systems are permitted as an accessory use within all zoning districts with the following conditions:
(A) Building-mounted systems.
(1) Location. Building mounted systems may be located on any roof face of principal or accessory structures. Systems should be flush mounted when possible.
(2) Measuring height. Height is measured from the roof surface on which the system is mounted to the highest edge of the system.
(3) Maximum height. Systems on residential structures shall not extend beyond 12 inches parallel to the roof surface of a pitched roof or flat roof. Systems on nonresidential structures shall not extend beyond 36 inches parallel to the roof surface of a pitched roof or flat roof. Systems on all structures shall not extend above the highest peak of a pitched roof.
(4) Architectural integration. All materials used for racking, mounts, mounting clamps, and flashings, shall be of a color consistent with the color of the roof surface to minimize visibility. Equipment associated with the building-mounted system is prohibited on the front or exterior side of a building, unless operationally necessary and approved by the Community Development Director, and shall be a color consistent with the color of the building.
(B) Free-standing systems, primary use.
(1) Quantity. An unlimited quantity of panels is permitted.
(2) Maximum height. Maximum height shall be five feet in height, measured from the grade at the base of the pole to the highest edge of the system.
(3) Clearance. Minimum clearance between the lowest point of the system and the surface on which the system is mounted is 12 inches.
(4) Setbacks. All parts of the freestanding system shall be set back ten feet from the side and rear lot lines and shall not be located in a public utility easement.
(C) Free-standing systems, accessory use. (See Figure 16-5-9(C))
(1) Location. Systems are permitted in the rear yard only.
(2) Quantity. An unlimited quantity of panels is permitted on all zoning lots with the exception of any residential zoning lot 30,000 square feet or less in size, which are limited to a total of 100 square feet in area of panels.
(3) Maximum height. Maximum height shall be five feet in height, measured from the grade at the base of the pole to the highest edge of the system.
(4) Clearance. Minimum clearance between the lowest point of the system and the surface on which the system is mounted is 12 inches.
(5) Setbacks. All parts of the freestanding system shall be set back ten feet from the side and rear lot lines and shall not be located in a public utility easement.
(Ord. 2021-05-15, passed 5-3-2021; Ord. 2024-06-30, passed 6-3-2024)