(A) Location. Small wind energy systems (SWES) are permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts, provided setback and other provisions of this section are met. SWES not meeting these provisions may also be allowed if a special use is approved following the requirements outlined in § 152.018.
(B) Setback. The minimum distance from all lot lines to any tower or support base of a SWES shall be 1.1 times the height of the SWES. A reduction of this requirement may be granted as part of a special use permit approval if the Planning and Zoning Commission finds that the reduction is consistent with public health, safety and welfare.
(C) Height. For property sizes between one-half acre and one acre, the SWES shall be limited to 80 feet. For property sizes of one acre or more, there is no height limitation, except as imposed by FAA regulations. The blade tip of any rotor shall, at its lowest point, have ground clearance of no less than 15 feet.
(D) Design. Building permit applications for SWES shall be accompanied by standard drawings of the wind turbine structure, including the tower, base and footings. An engineering analysis of the system showing compliance with the adopted Building Codes and certified by a licensed structural engineer shall be submitted.
(E) Noise. SWES shall not exceed 60 dBA, as measured at the closest neighboring dwelling or business. This level, however, may be exceeded during short-term events such as utility outages and/or severe wind storms.
(F) Interference. The SWES operation shall not interfere with radio, television, computer or other electronic operations on adjacent properties.
(G) Fencing. A fence six feet high with a locking gate shall be placed around any SWES tower base; or the tower climbing apparatus shall begin no lower than 12 feet above ground.
(Ord. 10-3277, § 1-7.8, passed 1-4-2010; Ord. 12-3343, passed 1-23-2012)