(A) Zoning districts. Solar energy systems in accordance with the standards in this section are allowed as a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts.
(B) Standards.
(1) Exemption. Passive or building-integrated solar systems are exempt from the requirements of this section and shall be regulated as any other building element.
(2) Height. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall comply with the maximum height requirements in the applicable zoning district. Ground mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height.
(3) Location. In residential zoning districts, ground mounted solar energy systems are limited to the rear yard. In non-residential zoning districts, ground-mounted solar energy systems may be permitted in the side yard meeting accessory structure requirements in § 153.110.
(4) Setbacks. Ground mounted solar energy systems shall comply with all accessory structure setbacks in the applicable zoning district. Roof mounted systems shall comply with all building setbacks in the applicable zoning district and shall not extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the building on which the system is mounted.
(5) Roof mounting. Roof mounted solar collectors shall be flush mounted on pitched roofs unless the roof pitch is determined to be inadequate for optimum performance of the solar energy system in which case the pitch of the solar collector may exceed the pitch of the roof up to 5% but in no case shall be higher than 10 inches above the roof. Solar collectors may be bracket-mounted on flat roofs.
(6) Easements. Solar energy systems shall not encroach on public drainage, utility roadway, or trail easements.
(7) Screening. Solar energy systems shall be screened from view to the extent possible without impacting their function.
(8) Maximum area. In the SF, MXR-1, MXR-2, MXR-3, and MF residential districts, ground mounted solar energy systems shall be limited to a maximum area of 200 square feet. In C, A and RR residential zoning districts, ground mounted solar energy systems shall be limited to a maximum area consistent with the accessory structure requirements in § 153.110 or no more than 25% of the rear yard whichever is less.
(9) Aesthetics. All solar energy systems shall be designed to blend into the architecture of the building to the extent possible without negatively impacting the performance of the system and to minimize glare towards vehicular traffic and adjacent properties.
(10) Feeder lines. The electrical collection system shall be placed underground within the interior of each parcel. The collection system may be placed overhead near substations or points on interconnection to the electric grid.
(11) Structures shall not be located such that solar power access blocks a neighboring property.
(C) Safety.
(1) Standards and certifications.
(a) Standards. Solar energy systems shall meet current industry standards.
(b) Certification. Solar energy systems shall be certified by an appropriate industry certifying entity.
(2) Utility connection. All grid connected systems shall have a completed contractual agreement with the local utility prior to the issuance of a building permit. A visible external disconnect must be provided.
(a) Abandonment. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 6 months, the system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at the owner’s expense after a demolition permit has been obtained. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment.
(b) Permits. A building permit shall be obtained for any solar energy system prior to installation.
(Ord. 596, passed 2-8-2010)