Small solar energy systems are permitted accessory structures in any zoning district, subject to the requirements of the zoning district in which they are located and the following standards.
(A) Any small solar energy system mounted on the ground shall be located only in the rear or side yard and must comply with all requirements applicable to an accessory building within the zoning district in which the small solar energy system is located (see §§ 157.056(G) and 157.059(G) as appropriate).
(1) The height of any small solar energy system mounted on the ground shall not exceed eight feet when orientated at a maximum tilt as measured from the existing grade.
(2) Any small solar energy system mounted on the ground shall be sufficiently screened from the view of adjacent properties or roadways through the use of fencing, greenbelts and landscaping sufficient to provide an all-season complete visual barrier.
(B) Any small solar energy system erected on a building shall not extend beyond the peak of the roof. For systems erected on a flat roof, the highest point of the system shall be permitted to extend up to six feet above the roof to which it is attached; however, it shall be so located or architecturally concealed by a parapet wall or screen so that the system is not visible from abutting road rights-of-way or private road easements.
(C) Any small solar energy system mounted on the roof of a residential property must be installed to meet the access and ventilation requirements of the 2015 Michigan Residential Code.
(D) No small solar energy system shall be installed in such a way as to pose an unreasonable safety hazard, as defined in this chapter.
(E) All small solar energy systems must conform to all applicable federal, state and county requirements, in addition to other applicable village ordinances, as well as any applicable industry standards.
(F) All solar energy systems must be installed in a manner ensuring that concentrated solar glare shall not be directed onto nearby properties or roadways.
(G) All power transmission lines from a ground mounted small solar energy system to any building or other structure shall be located underground.
(H) Any small solar energy system and the surrounding premises must be kept and maintained in good repair and condition at all times and must continuously conform with all applicable building and electrical codes. This shall include, but is not limited to, ensuring that any fencing is maintained to provide sufficient protection and screening, that the property is kept clear of trash and other debris, that all aspects of the small solar energy system are maintained according to industry standards, and that no portion of the small solar energy system is in a blighted, unsafe, or substandard manner.
(I) An abandoned small solar energy system shall be removed by the property owner within six months.