1143.28 SOLAR ENERGY EQUIPMENT.

   Solar energy equipment is permitted in accordance with the following requirements:

   (a)   Solar panels or solar film is allowed on the roof of any principal permitted structure and as roof material for overhangs, porches, awnings, gazebos, or similar structures but only when such structures are constructed as an integral part of the principal structure.

   (b)   Rooftop solar panels shall be installed on the plane of the roof (flush mounted) and shall not extend above the ridgeline of the roof. In no case can the solar panels extend greater than eighteen inches from the roof surface.

   (c)   For rooftop solar panels, all exposed conduits, plumbing lines and related appurtenances shall be painted in a color scheme that closely matches the roof materials.

   (d)   No ground mounted or wall mounted solar panels greater than one (1) square foot are permitted in any residential or agricultural zoning districts. Ground mounted and wall mounted solar panels are permitted in M-2, ST, SE, C-2, C-3, C-3A and B-1 zoning districts. They must be located no closer than 200 feet from any residential or agricultural zoning district.

   (e)   A ground mounted solar panel shall be subordinate in size to the principal structure it serves, shall not exceed 15 feet in height, and is subject to the setbacks as defined in the district in which it is permitted.

   (f)   Ground mounted solar panels may not be located in the front yard.

   (g)   Solar panels shall be placed so that concentrated solar radiation or glare shall not be directed onto other properties or roadways in the vicinity. The owner and/or occupant of the property on which the solar panels are located shall be responsible for correcting any violation of this subsection.

   (h)   Solar panels used exclusively for traffic control signals or devices are exempted from this section except subsection (g) above which shall apply.

      (Ord. 98-10. Passed 11-8-10.)