(A) Zoning district allowance. Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with the standards in this chapter are allowed as a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts.
(B) Standards.
(1) System requirements.
(a) Only closed loop ground source heat pump systems utilizing heat transfer fluids as defined in this section are permitted. Open loop ground source heat pump systems are not permitted.
(b) Ground source heat pump systems in public waters may be permitted as a conditional use in accordance with this section and subject to the following:
1. Approval from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
2. Written consent of all property owners and/or approval by an association in accordance with its adopted bylaws.
3. Demonstrated compliance with applicable city permit requirements.
(c) Ground source heat pump systems in water bodies owned or managed by the City of Jordan are not permitted.
(2) Setbacks.
(a) All components of ground source heat pump systems including pumps, borings and loops shall be set back at least 5 feet from interior side lot lines and at least 10 feet from rear lot lines.
(b) Above ground equipment associated with ground source heat pumps shall not be installed in the front yard of any lot or the side yard of a corner lot adjacent to a public right-of-way and shall meet all required setbacks for the applicable zoning district.
(3) Easements. Ground source heat pump systems shall not encroach on public drainage, utility roadway, or trail easements.
(4) Noise. Ground source heat pump systems shall comply with Minnesota pollution control agency standards outlined in Minnesota Rules Ch. 7030.
(5) Screening. Ground source heat pumps are considered mechanical equipment and shall be screened from view to the extent possible without impacting their function.
(6) Safety. Ground source heat pumps shall be certified by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., and meet the requirements of the State Building Code.
(C) Abandonment. If a ground source heat pump system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 1 year, the system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after a demolition permit has been obtained in accordance with the following:
(1) The heat pump and any external mechanical equipment shall be removed.
(2) Pipes or coils below the land surface shall be filled with grout to displace the heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid shall be captured and disposed of in accordance with applicable regulations. The top of the pipe, coil or boring shall be uncovered and grouted.
(3) Lake ground source heat pump systems shall be completely removed from the bottom of the body of water.
(D) Permits. A building permit shall be obtained for any ground source heat pump system prior to installation. Borings for vertical systems are subject to approval by the Minnesota Department of Public Health.
(Ord. 2013-05, passed 5-20-2013)