The Planning and Zoning Commission shall consider, and the Applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the following standards in determining whether to approve an application for wireless communication towers and antennas.
(a) There is not technically suitable space reasonably available on an existing tower or structure within the geographic area to be served. In all cases, the Village shall use its best efforts to encourage collocation.
(b) Poles, towers, equipment structures and antenna placement shall meet the minimum yard setback requirements as set forth in the Zoning Code for the Zoning District in which the antenna and/or tower is proposed to be located and all lot area requirements for that Zoning District.
(c) Screen fencing shall be provided for aesthetic and public safety reasons. A fence at least six (6) feet in height will be erected completely around the communication tower and any related support facilities. Barbed wire at the top of the fence is permitted.
(d) Towers and antenna shall be designed to withstand wind gusts of at least one hundred (100) miles an hour.
(e) A landscaped buffer area of not less than ten (10) feet in depth shall be placed between the wireless communication facilities and the public rights-of-way, residential Zoning Districts and any adjacent residential uses. The ten (10) foot landscape buffer shall consist of a tight screen fence of hardy evergreen shrubbery not less than six (6) feet in height. The landscaping shall be continuously maintained and promptly restored, if necessary.
(f) Outdoor storage of any supplies, vehicles or equipment related to the use of the facility is prohibited.
(g) Except as required by law, an antenna or a Tower shall not be illuminated and lighting fixtures or signs shall not be attached to the antenna or Tower. If lighting is required by FAA regulations, white strobe lights shall not be permitted at night unless no other less bothersome, annoying and disturbing alternative is permitted by the FAA. Lighting for security purposes shall be permitted at the wireless telecommunication facility with a prior approval of the Commission and Council.
(h) The Applicant must provide written certification from an Engineer that the antenna and/or Tower are to be constructed in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations pertaining to the construction.
(i) There shall be a separation of at least one quarter (¼) mile between new wireless communications towers. The Commission may waive this requirement for wireless communication towers associated with or within existing structures such as electrical high-tension towers.
(j) No advertising shall be permitted on the wireless telecommunication facility.
(k) Construction of a wireless communication tower and equipment shelter shall be completed within six (6) months of the commencement of construction.
(Ord. 3-98-03. Passed 3-17-98.)