(A) The components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into electric energy suitable for use. The area of the system includes all the land inside the perimeter of the system, which extends to any fencing.
(B) For the purposes of these zoning regulations, solar energy systems are divided into three classes.
(1) Level 1 Solar Energy System. A roof-mounted system on any code compliant structure, an area of up to 50% of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel, but not more than one acre and not more than 25 feet tall or any building integrated system (i.e., shingle, hanging solar, canopy and the like).
(2) Level 2 Solar Energy System. Any ground-mounted system not included in a Level 1 SES and meets the following area restrictions.
(a) In an agricultural zone, the area of the SES shall not exceed one-half acre in size and shall require a building permit issued by the Chairperson of the Planning Commission or his or her designee, in areas exceeding one-half acre, a site plan shall be required by the county’s Planning Commission.
(b) In an industrial zone, the SES shall not exceed ten acres in size.
(c) In an industrial zone, an SES of any size shall require a site plan approved by the county’s Planning Commission.
(3) Level 3 Solar Energy System. Any system that does not satisfy the parameters for a Level 1 or Level 2 SES.
(C) A panel measuring less than 20 square feet for the primary purpose of charging a battery(s) at a remote site shall be exempt from this regulation (i.e., weather station, storm warning siren, communications tower and the like).
(Ord. 20.920-1, passed 3- -2020)