A. Total Height: The total height of the large wind energy system shall be limited to ninety meters (90 m) above existing grade or by FAA regulations, whichever dictates a lower height.
B. Minimum Lot Size: Two (2) acres.
C. Setbacks: A tower in a large wind energy system must be set back at least 1.25 times its total height from any property boundary, must be within the buildable area of the lot and at least 1.25 times its total height from any overhead utility power line.
D. Noise: Noise emitted from the large wind energy system shall not exceed maximum sound levels set forth in title 9, chapter 9.28, "Noise Control", of this code.
E. Blade Clearance: The vertical distance from existing grade to the tip of a wind generator blade when the blade is at its lowest point must be at least fifteen feet (15').
F. Electrical Wires: All electrical wires associated with a large wind energy system, other than wires necessary to connect the wind turbine to the tower wiring, the tower wiring to the disconnect junction box, and the grounding wires shall be located underground.
G. Lighting: Lighting of tower(s) and turbine(s) is prohibited except where required by the federal aviation administration.
H. Appearance, Color, And Finish: The wind turbine and tower shall remain painted or finished the color or finish that was originally applied by the manufacturer.
I. Signs: All signs are prohibited, other than the manufacturer's or installer's identification, appropriate warning signs, or owner identification on a wind turbine, tower, building, or other associated structure.
J. Utility Interconnection: No large wind energy system shall be installed that does not meet the requirements of local utility providers for an interconnected customer owned generator. Off grid systems shall be exempt from this requirement.
K. Nonmaintained Or Abandoned Facilities: The building official may require each nonmaintained or abandoned large wind energy system to be removed from the premises at the cost of the owner when such a system has not been repaired or put into use by the owner, person having control or person receiving benefit of such structure within thirty (30) calendar days after notice of nonmaintenance or abandonment is given to the owner, person having control or person receiving the benefit of such structure. The city may require a performance bond or other means of financial assurance to guarantee removal of abandoned structures.
L. Off Street Parking Or Loading Requirements: None. A large wind energy system shall not remove or encroach upon required parking or loading areas for other uses on the site or access to such parking or loading areas. (Ord. 21-11, 2011)