Methane gas wells, associated equipment, and storage tanks located within 1,000 feet of an existing residence or within 500 feet of the right-of-way of a public road, highway, street or alley, shall be effectively screened from the residence or public roadways in a manner which is aesthetically pleasing and appropriate for the general area. In addition to fine grading, grass or other vegetative cover shall be restored to create an environment and appearance compatible with the adjacent properties, neighborhood and area. All landscaping and/or screening shall be in place ninety days after the well is placed in operation unless an extension due to adverse weather is granted by the Building Commissioner. All artificial lighting at the drilling site shall be designed and maintained so as to minimize the amount of light cast upon adjoining property. The permit holder shall grade the property in an effort to prevent excessive soil erosion and/or surface water runoff in excess of that which presently exists. All areas disturbed during the drilling operation shall be graded to prevent soil erosion. In addition, all areas disturbed shall be seeded immediately upon completion of the drilling operation. As long as the well is in production, the permit holder and/or operator, shall maintain the site in a neat, clean and orderly condition. The permit holder and/or operator shall maintain all gates, access routes, fences, tanks, dikes, landscaping and any other structure or appurtenances located on the site.
(Ord. 79-1985. Passed 11-25-85.)