The following design and development standards shall apply for building-mounted solar energy systems:
(a) Roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be installed on the same plane of the roof material or shall be made a part of the roof design (flush mounted).
(b) Roof-mounted solar energy systems shall not extend above the ridgeline of the roof to which they are attached and they may not extend below the roof line.
(c) Panels and mounting brackets for roof-mounted solar energy systems shall not extend more than 8 inches above the roof surface and shall be covered in a manner architecturally compatible with the building to which is attached to minimize visibility from the right-of-way or adjoining properties.
(d) All building-mounted solar energy systems shall be installed as follows:
(1) All building-mounted solar energy systems facing the front property line shall be installed in a rectangle arrangement.
(2) Only one installation of solar panels may face the front property line. The installation shall be permitted only on the highest roof facing the street.
(3) Installations on the non-front property line side are permitted so long as they meet the following standards in order of preference:
A. First, are installed in a rectangular arrangement. If not possible, proceed to the next installment preference.
B. Second, are installed to fill the roof plan. If not possible, proceed to the next installment preference.
C. Third, are installed in a symmetrical arrangement. If not possible, proceed to the next installment preference.
D. Fourth, are installed in a single geometric arrangement. If not possible, proceed to the next installment preference.
(e) Wiring and other appurtenances associated with roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be installed in a manner not visible from the right-of-way.
(f) Prior to submission of an application for a permit to install solar panels under Section 1276.05, the applicant shall provide the intended layout of the solar panels to the Director of Planning to determine the appropriate installation configuration under division (d) of this section.
(Ord. 0-15-4. Passed 2-19-15; Ord. O-22-35. Passed 9-15-22.)