(A) Physical modifications. In general, any physical modification to any WECS that alters the mechanical load, mechanical load path, or major electrical components shall require re-certification. Like-kind replacements shall not require re-certification. Therefore, prior to making any physical modification, the owner or operator shall confer with the Building Inspector and Area Plan Commission to determine whether the physical modification requires recertification.
(B) Interference. Prior to construction, a communications study to minimize interference with public or public serving utility microwave transmissions shall be completed. If necessary, the applicant, owner, and/or operator shall mitigate interference with electromagnetic communications, such as radio, telephone, microwaves, or television signals caused by any WECS. In addition, the applicant, owner, and/or operator shall comply with the following.
(1) Pre-construction. The applicant shall complete a communications study prior to construction so as to minimize interference with any public or public serving utility microwave transmissions.
(2) Post-construction. If, after construction of the WECS, the owner or operator receives a written complaint related to interference with the broadcast of residential television, telecommunication, communication, or microwave transmissions, the owner or operator shall take reasonable steps to mitigate said interference. Interference with private telecommunications systems such as GPS shall be between the company and the complainant.
(3) Failure to remedy a complaint. If an agreement to remedy a known interference is not reached within 90 days, appropriate action will be taken, which may result in requiring the WECS to become inactive. This does not apply to interference with private telecommunications systems.
(C) Declaration of public nuisance. Any WECS thereof declared to be unsafe by the County Building Inspector by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire hazard, damage, or abandonment is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and shall be abated by repair, rehabilitation, demolition, or removal in accordance with the approved decommissioning plan.
(D) Safety and security plan. A safety and security plan shall be submitted demonstrating provisions for site security and safety. If the plan includes using county services, it shall include the signatures of the proper authorities indicating they are aware of their role and capable of performing it. Coordination of local emergency responders must be included.
(Ord. 2022-02, passed 4-5-2022)