For the purposes of these regulations, a "wind turbine system" shall mean a wind energy conversion (WEC) system consisting of a tower, a unit consisting of blades, generator and associated control or conversion electronics which have a rated capacity appropriate for on-site electrical generation and use. Wind turbine systems shall be considered a conditional accessory use requiring approval by the Planning Commission in the districts so designated below and shall require a separate zoning certificate.
(a) Small Wind Turbine Systems in Residential Districts. Not more than one (1) wind turbine system of not more than 20 kW design capacity shall be allowed as a conditional use on a single property or parcel in the RE or R-1A Districts, provided evidence is submitted to the Planning Commission that the following requirements are met:
(1) A Site Plan for the property shall be provided, showing all physical features of the lot, including landscaping and existing and proposed structures. The Site Plan shall also include an explanation of how the proposed wind turbine system can be specifically adapted to meet the requirements of the site and this Ordinance.
(2) The height of the tower of the wind turbine system shall not exceed seventy (70) feet as measured from the ground to the highest point of the tower, including the height of any building or structure upon which the tower is mounted. The specific lot shall be of such size that not less than 1.25 times the height of the tower can be provided to any property line.
(3) Notwithstanding the above, the height of the system shall not exceed the height recommended by the manufacturer or distributor of the system.
(4) The noise from the system shall not exceed 50 decibels (dBA) or 10 dBA above the documented ambient noise level as measured at the most proximate inhabited residential dwelling.
(5) The application shall include standard drawings and an engineering analysis of the structural stability of the tower, and certification of same by a Professional Engineer.
(6) The owner of the system shall certify and provide assurance that if the small wind turbine system is abandoned or otherwise inoperable for a continuous period of six (6) months or more, the system shall be removed. The reinstallation of such system shall require a new zoning certificate.
(b) Wind Turbine Systems in Non-Residential Districts. Not more than three (3) wind turbine systems of not more than 100 kW design capacity shall be considered as a conditional use in the GC, GI or IP Districts and shall be subject to the requirements of that district, as well as the following:
(1) A Site Plan for the property shall be provided, showing all physical features of the lot, including landscaping and existing and proposed structures. The Site Plan shall also include an explanation of how the proposed wind turbine system can be specifically adapted to meet the requirements of the site and this Ordinance.
(2) The height of the tower of the wind turbine system shall not exceed 120 feet as measured from the ground to the highest point of the tower, including the height of any building or structure upon which the tower is mounted. The specific lot shall be of such size that not less than 1.25 times the height of the tower can be provided to any property line.
(3) The requirements of subsection (a)(3) through (6) shall apply.
(Ord. 2009-85. Passed 12-8-09.)