(A) Intended purpose. This section provides regulations for solar energy generating systems as an alternative energy-providing source. These regulations shall guide the safe and effective use and installation of solar energy generating systems throughout the town.
(B) All buildings shall be allowed to incorporate solar energy systems in their design, provided they are in compliance with the applicable requirements set forth in this chapter, including all lot and setback requirements. A building permit shall be required for all such systems.
(C) Solar energy generating systems shall comply with the following:
(1) Solar panels shall be roof-mounted or ground-mounted in the rear yard only.
(2) Ground-mounted solar panels shall not exceed eight feet in height at maximum tilt, and shall be sufficiently screened from public or private streets.
(3) The total area of solar collectors on a residential lot shall not exceed 600 square feet per dwelling unit.
(D) Unused or abandoned solar energy generating structures shall be removed from any site within 180 days from the discontinuation of use.
(E) Building permit applications for all solar energy generating structures shall be accompanied by a line drawing of the electrical components in sufficient detail to allow for a determination that the manner of installation conforms to the town’s Electrical Code.
(F) In the event, the solar energy system is intended to be interconnected with a utility, no solar energy generating structure shall be installed until evidence has been provided to the town that the utility company has been informed of the customer’s intent to install an interconnected customer-owned generator and an interconnection agreement between the utility and the customer have been executed. Interconnection must comply with Underwriters Laboratory (UL) standard 1741, as amended from time to time.
(Ord. 210, passed 9-11-2012; Am. Ord. 317, passed 4-13-2021)