(A) Solar energy systems shall be a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts, provided that the system is in compliance with all applicable zoning regulations and building codes related to accessory uses.
(B) The use of solar energy systems is subject to the restraints of the zoning regulations contained in this chapter and any existing vegetation.
(C) The effect of trees on the solar access of surrounding development shall be minimized to the greatest possible extent in selecting tree species and locating trees on public lands and along roadways. Whenever possible, every effort shall be made to avoid shading existing or proposed solar collectors.
(D) Reasonable care should be taken to protect the opportunity for the utilization of solar energy systems at all locations available.
(E) The city shall take affirmative actions to the extent possible to preserve solar access for all existing and future development.
(F) The city does encourage the use of private easements and restrictive covenants as a means to protect access to sunlight.
(G) Ground mounted accessory solar energy systems may be permitted in the B-2, LI, and GI districts when meeting the following standards:
(1) The system shall be screened from view from property in residential districts.
(2) The total ground area covered by the system is limited to 300 square feet.
(3) All systems shall meet the required setbacks for accessory structures and are not permitted in the front yard.
(4) The maximum height permitted is 15 feet at full tilt.
(5) The collector surface and any foundation, compacted soil, or other component of the solar installation that rests on the ground is considered impervious surface.
(6) A system may be placed in the front yard meeting half the required setback for the principal structure when in receipt of a conditional use permit.
(7) A system may exceed 300 square feet when in receipt of a conditional use permit provided the system does not exceed the area of 25% of the principal structure's building footprint. Square footage is measured by the total area of the solar collector surface(s).
(H) Building mounted accessory solar energy systems are permitted in all districts in the following manner:
(1) All systems shall be flush mounted on peaked roofs.
(2) A maximum of 85% of the roof may be covered by systems unless architecturally integrated into features of the building.
(3) No system shall extend beyond the edge of the roof.
(4) All systems shall meet height regulations in the district.
(5) No system shall extend beyond 12 feet from the roof at maximum tilt on a flat roof. Mechanical screening shall be required on street facing sides of multi-family, commercial, and industrial buildings.
(6) No residential accessory structure within the principal structure setback shall be permitted to have a roof mounted solar energy system except when in receipt of a conditional use permit.
(I) Principal use solar energy systems are not permitted.
(Ord. passed 3-20-2002, § 4, sub. 11; Am. Ord. 2018-03, passed 9-10-2018, § 3)