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Search Results for Topic : Solar Energy
Grow Solar Local Government Solar Toolkit for Minnesota: Planning, Zoning, and Permitting
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
N/A
The model addresses concerns that are primarily in counties, townships, and rural areas rather than cities and urban areas. The incentive portion of the urban model ordinance can be applied in rural areas, as are provisions addressing solar access and aesthetic considerations in those rural areas with development patterns at an urban scale (typically lots smaller than 1 acre). This ordinance addresses solar energy as both a principal use and as an accessory use to the primary residential or commercial use. The model outlines height restriction..
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Energize CT Solar PV Model Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Connecticut
N/A
Energize CT developed a model solar PV zoning ordinance to aid municipalities in developing their own solar PV zoning ordinance. The model provides example height restrictions for various types of solar collector units. It states that ground-mounted solar PV systems are permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts upon issuance of the proper permit and that they must not exceed thirty-five inches in height. Roof-mounted solar PV systems (permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts upon issuance of the proper permit) shall be ..
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American Planning Association’s Solar Planning & Zoning Database
Date Added: Tuesday, June 19, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
State: Not Applicable
N/A
The American Planning Association hosts an online Solar Planning & Zoning Data Search database. From this portal, users can search hundreds of examples of solar-supportive plans, development regulations, and other planning-related implementation tools by place type, population range and density, tool type, and solar practice. The database includes example policies, plans, and regulations from communities across the nation...
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ICMA/ The Solar Foundation’s A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: Encouraging Solar Development through Community Association Policies and Processes
Date Added: Tuesday, June 19, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
State: Not Applicable
N/A
ICMA guidelines focus heavily on the visibility aspect of solar energy systems. Residential guidelines include that system panels should be mounted as close to the roof as possible, and no part of the installation should be visible above the peak of the roof to which it is attached. Panels also should not protrude above the roofline to be visible from adjacent properties, and pipes, wires, and mounting hardware must be unobtrusive...
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Penn Future's Solar Installation Guidebook
Date Added: Tuesday, June 19, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Pennsylvania
N/A
Penn Future’s Western PA Solar Installation Guidebook provides information on how to handle zoning and permitting solar energy in one’s municipality. Section B contains a model zoning ordinance. The ordinance defines a “building-mounted system” as one “attached to any part or type of roof on a building or structure that has an occupancy permit . . . and that is either the principal structure or an accessory structure . . . .” The ordinance defines a “ground-mounted system” as one “mounted on a structure, pole or series of poles constructed spec..
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Model Small-Scale Solar Siting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
N/A
Columbia Law School’s Center for Climate Change Law developed the Model Small-Scale Solar Siting Ordinance, which includes several helpful solar energy system definitions. The model ordinance defines building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems as those that integrate photovoltaic modules into the building structure, such as the roof or fac¸ade, but which do not alter roof relief. The model defines freestanding or ground-mounted solar energy systems as those directly installed in the ground and not attached or affixed to an existing structur..
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Town of Bethlehem, New York Code § 128-67.2 – Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
§ 128-67.2 of the Town of Bethlehem, New York’s Code specifies zoning requirements for various types of solar collector units in different zoning districts within the City. For a building-mounted system, solar panels shall be set back no less than 3' from the edge of the roof to allow for fire access and ventilation. On sloped roofs, this requirement does not apply along that portion of the bottom edge located more than 3' from a side edge. Small-scale ground-mounted systems shall be permitted in a required minimum side yard or rear yard setbac..
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City of Beacon, New York Code-Chapter 223: Solar Collectors and Installations
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of Beacon, New York’s Code has an article dedicated to solar collectors and their installation. The height of freestanding and ground-mounted solar collectors (permitted as accessory structures in all zoning districts) and any mounts shall not exceed twenty feet when oriented at maximum tilt. For large-scale solar collectors or solar farms (which are prohibited in areas zoned for residential use), the maximum height for freestanding solar panels located on the ground or attached to a framework located on the ground shall not exceed 20 ..
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Amendment to Town of Saugerties, New York Zoning Code Chapter 245
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The amendment to the Town of Saugerties, New York Zoning Code allows large scale solar energy facilities via special use permits. The site for such facility shall be at least the minimum area required in the zoning district and the total area covered by the facility and all related appurtenances shall not exceed 70% of the gross area of the site. The required coverage as set for in the Schedule of Area and Bulk Regulations (Sec. 245-12) shall not apply to solar energy facilities where a solar array is designed and located so that the underlying..
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Borough of Naugatuck, Connecticut Code of Ordinances §4.16 – Street trees
Date Added: Tuesday, June 12, 2018Solar Energy
Connecticut
Municipal
Naugatuck, Connecticut’s subdivision regulations include street tree provisions that require a minimum amount of street trees in subdivisions but these provisions require street tree locations that avoid shading solar collectors and other passive solar access systems. ..
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City of Rocky Mount, North Carolina Land Development Code § 704(C)(9) – Solar access
Date Added: Tuesday, June 12, 2018Solar Energy
North Carolina
Municipal
The City of Rocky Mount, North Carolina’s landscaping regulations apply to all proposed development for which a site plan is required; however, if existing development on an adjoining lot is designed for solar access, the regulations authorize site plan applicants to substitute small trees for large trees where large trees would destroy solar access...
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City of Lancaster, California Code § 17.08.305- Implementation of solar energy systems
Date Added: Tuesday, June 12, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
California
Municipal
The City of Lancaster, California’s solar energy system implementation regulation requires all new single-family homes to have a solar energy system in order to receive a building permit. The mandate includes subdivisions, requiring the subdivider to meet the aggregate energy generation requirement within the subdivision (as calculated by the per-unit energy generation requirement multiplied by the number of homes in the subdivision). Alternatively, a homebuilder may choose to meet the solar energy generation requirement by purchasing solar en..
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Solar Ann Arbor
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Solar Energy
Michigan
Municipal
Ann Arbor, Michigan adopted Solar Ann Arbor, a functional plan that includes an energy profile for the City and recommends creating municipal solar financial incentives streamlining the solar permitting process, integrating solar energy systems into municipal infrastructure and culture, adopting solar access laws and robust building energy codes, creating a solar outreach campaign, and supporting solar workforce development and green jobs...
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Tucson Solar Integration Plan and Greater Tucson Solar Development Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Solar Energy
Arizona
Regional - Multiple Municipalities
Tucson, Arizona’s Solar Integration Plan and Greater Tucson Solar Development Plan lay the groundwork for accelerated development of solar energy facilities in and around Tucson, requiring the installation of a minimum amount of solar electric generation capacity by 2015. ..
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Town of Huntington Climate Action Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Climate Change Planning
New York
Municipal
In 2015, the Town of Huntington, New York released its Climate Action Plan. The Plan calls for removing zoning hurdles that obstruct the development of solar energy systems on private property and to streamline the permitting process. It calls for the installation of solar PV capacity on every public facility that can reasonably support such systems. The Plan also notes that to achieve economies of scale, the Town should bid multiple installations together or use requirements contracts to promote cost efficiencies. The plan also directs the Tow..
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East New York Neighborhood Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Affordable Housing , Economic Development, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
New York City’s East New York Neighborhood Plan was first released in 2016 and updated in 2017. The Plan’s 2017 update calls for a subset of the East New York community to be enrolled in the SolarizeNYC Program. This Program brings together local businesses and residents and connects them with the tools needed to install solar energy systems, including financial assistance, permitting guidance, and more. Per the 2017 update to the Plan, leaders in the neighborhood are to take the initiative on enrolling members of the community...
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Updated Town and Village of Middleburgh Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Flood Prevention, Historic Preservation, Land Use Planning, Open Space Preservation, Solar Energy, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
The Town and Village of Middleburgh, New York’s 2015 Comprehensive Plan calls for commercial-scale solar farms to be allowed through a Special Use Permit and that standards be applied to this use that ensures consistency with the scenic, environmental, and agricultural needs of the community. According to the plan, modifications to the community’s zoning ordinance should be made to ensure that these farms do not create negative aesthetic impacts and or direct glare onto roads or neighboring properties. The Plan also calls for the Town’s zoning ..
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2017 Comprehensive Plan- Town of Reading, New York
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Water Resource Protection, Wind Energy, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Traffic Calming & Safety, Parks & Recreation
New York
Municipal
Reading, New York’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan promotes the use of solar energy throughout the community. It calls for Reading to provide information about the feasibility of solar energy to residents and to collaborate with state and other organizations in programs that encourage growth in solar energy systems. The plan also calls for Reading to reform its land use regulations to specifically allow certain types of solar energy systems and to establish procedures for review and approval of both small-scale accessory systems and large-scale instal..
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County of Howard, Maryland - Use of Solar Panels and Other Solar Devices in Historic Districts Guidelines
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Historic District Preservation, Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
Howard County, Maryland offers guidelines for installing solar energy systems in historic districts. For example, one recommendation is to install solar panels on roof surface so it is not visible from a public way. The guidelines also include practices one should avoid, like removing historic roofing materials in order to add solar panels...
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Town of East Bloomfield, New York Code § 135-41(H) – Solar arrays
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of East Bloomfield, New York allows solar energy systems by right in all zoning districts. However, a party seeking to install a building- or structure- mounted solar array must have a letter from a professional engineer or registered architect certifying that the existing structure can support the additional gravity and wind loads of the solar energy system. Meanwhile, ground-mounted solar arrays can be located in a side or year yard, but if the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Planning Board that locating such sol..
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Town of Southampton, New York Code § 330- 76(L) – Solar energy systems.
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Southampton, New York amended its zoning code to allow roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar energy systems as accessory uses in all zoning districts when the primary use on a lot is for producing electricity for on-site consumption. If solar energy equipment is visible from the public right-of-way, it shall match the color scheme of the underlying structure...
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Town of Kingston, New York Code - Article XV: Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Kingston amended its zoning ordinance to permit small-scale solar energy systems by right and ground-mounted solar energy systems as accessory structures in all zoning districts. Large-scale solar energy systems are allowed in the Town by a Special Use Permit.
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Sustainable Westchester
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Intermunicipal Agreements, Recycling, Solar Energy, Water Resource Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Complete Streets
New York
Regional - Multiple Municipalities
Sustainable Westchester is a consortium of Westchester County local governments that facilitates effective sustainability initiatives; engages community stakeholders; and shares tools, resources, and incentives to create healthier and more vibrant and attractive communities. Sustainable Westchester is a merger of the successful and popular Northern Westchester Energy Action Consortium (NWEAC) and Southern Westchester Energy Action Consortium (SWEAC)...
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County of Kent, Maryland Renewable Energy Task Force
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Local Boards, Solar Energy
Maryland
Municipal
In response to state and federal initiatives to reduce energy consumption and increase energy production from renewables, Kent County created its Renewable Energy Task Force to study and evaluate the benefits of renewable energy generation at multiple scales, make recommendations about appropriate renewable energy technologies, and propose policy changes and ordinance amendments. In 2011, the Task Force successfully proposed amendments to the County Code, adding both permitted use and special exception provisions for small-scale solar energy sy..
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Town of DeWitt, New York Sustainability Plan & Solar Task Force
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Local Boards, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2010, the Town of DeWitt, New York adopted a Sustainability Policy that stated goals and related planning initiatives to increase the Town's environmental sustainability. Following this, the Town adopted a Sustainability Plan in 2014 to provide GHG emission reduction strategies for achieving Sustainability Policy goals and to guide municipal operations. The Sustainability Policy presents a goal to “review and revise Town codes, plans and policies to support energy efficiency, renewable energy systems and green practices.” Its related plann..
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Dobbs Ferry, New York Energy Task Force
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Local Boards, Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Dobbs Ferry Energy Task Force helps the Village of Dobbs Ferry become more sustainable through energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives; waste reduction and recycling; increased walking, bicycling, and transit use; and appropriate land use. The Task Force has:
• Obtained NYSERDA and NYPA grants to identify and implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and continues to seek funding opportunities for similar measures;
• Published the Village’s 2017 Climate Action Plan aimed at reducing the Village’s greenhouse gas ..
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Town of Grand Island, New York Code § 407-165.1(D)- Solar collectors and installations for minor systems
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Grand Island, New York allows roof-mounted systems if the distance between the roof and the highest edge of the system is in accordance with the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, and the building-mounted solar collector shall not obstruct solar access to adjacent properties. Ground-mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed the height restrictions of the zones they are located in when oriented at maximum tilt. ..
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Town of North Castle, New York Code § 258-4. Permitting
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Historic District Preservation, Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 258 of the Town of North Castle, New York Code is titled Solar Infrastructure Siting. § 258-4(N) allows historic district preservation plans to incorporate solar technologies, if a Certificate of Appropriateness has been issued by the Town’s Landmark Preservation committee...
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Town of New Hartford, New York Code § 118- 74 – Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of New Hartford’s solar energy system regulation defines freestanding or ground- mounted solar energy systems as those directly installed in the ground and not attached or affixed to an existing structure. Rooftop mounted or building mounted systems are defined as those with solar panels mounted on top of a roof structure either as a flush-mounted system or modules fixed to frames that can be tilted toward the south at an optimal angle. The regulation defines small-scale solar as solar photovoltaic systems rated up to ten kW per hour o..
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City of Portland, Oregon Code, Title 33.218- Community Design Standards
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Historic District Preservation, Solar Energy, Zoning
Oregon
Municipal
Within their Community Design Standards, Portland, Oregon eliminated discretionary review of solar energy systems that adhere to community design standards, thereby making it easier for solar panels to be installed in historic districts...
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City of New Rochelle, New York Code § 331-25 - Solar energy collectors
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
New Rochelle, New York allows certain small-scale, roof-mounted systems as accessory uses under the City’s general accessory use definition. Solar energy collectors on one- or two- family dwellings, as well as those that cover less than 1,000 square feet of the roof area of other buildings, require only a building permit...
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City of Olean, New York Code of Ordinances Article 10.25 – Solar Energy Production Facilities
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Article 10.25 details the requirements for solar systems in the city of Olean, New York. A Solar Energy Production Facility (aka a Solar Farm) is permitted in certain districts under a Special Use Permit.
§ 10.25.5 subsections (1) and (3)(a-d) describe decommissioning and abandonment requirements. All applications for a solar farm shall include a decommissioning plan to ensure that the site will be restored to a useful, nonhazardous condition without delay upon abandonment or cessation of activity. The decommissioning plan shall include, b..
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Town of Geneva, New York Zoning Code § 130-4: Solar collectors and installations for major systems or solar farms
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
§ 130-4 of the Geneva Zoning Code is called Solar collectors and installations for major systems or solar farms. It highlights the requirements a solar system must follow to be allowed within all zoning districts in Geneva. This section also highlights the provisions of a decommissioning plan for solar sites, which must be included with all applications...
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Delaware Township, New Jersey Ordinance #2011-06LU
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New Jersey
Municipal
The town of Delaware, New Jersey provides specific lot-size requirements based on the type of solar facility. Ground-mounted Minor Solar or PV Energy Facility or Structure must be located on lots of at least one acre gross, while Major Solar or PV Energy Facility or Structure must be located on lots of at least twenty acres gross.
..
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Envision Cortlandt – 2016 Sustainable Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2014, the Town of Cortlandt established by resolution a Solar Task Force. This Task Force spent one year exploring the possibility of installing solar energy systems on Town buildings and determining ways that solar energy systems can be adopted by residents. In 2015, the Task Force presented twelve recommendations to the Town Board, all of which were received. By the end of that year, three of the Task Force’s recommendations had already been completed, including adopting the New York State Unified Solar Permit, joining the Sustainable West..
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City of Austin, Texas Resolution No. 20120426-081: Creation of Austin Local Solar Advisory Committee
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Local Boards, Solar Energy
Texas
Municipal
Austin adopted Resolution No. 20120426-081, creating the Austin Local Solar Advisory Committee, which included representatives from the solar industry, Chamber of Commerce, the environmental non-profit community, consumer advocate community, the Electric Utility Commission, and the Resource Management Commission. The Advisory Committee produced the Strategic Plan for Local Solar, providing recommendations for new policies, as well as amendments to the city’s zoning regulations, that will optimize Austin’s solar energy resource base...
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Santa Fe County, New Mexico - Resolution No. 2013-49
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New Mexico
Municipal
Santa Fe County, New Mexico adopted Resolution No. 2013-49 to support renewable energy projects on County facilities. Although not a comprehensive policy statement, the resolution’s whereas clauses present the County’s detailed rationale for this support. In particular, they acknowledge the County’s “tremendous solar power potential” and contain a comprehensive list of solar power benefits, including economic, environmental, health, and education benefits...
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Yolo County, California Code § 8-2.1104, .1105
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
California
Municipal
Yolo County’s solar energy regulations allow approval of small solar energy systems for onsite uses through the issuance of a building permit and a zoning clearance, provided the application meets setback and other standards set forth in the solar energy regulation. . If the County’s chief building official believes a small solar energy system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety, the official may require the applicant to apply for a use permit. Medium-sized solar energy systems for onsite and/or offsite uses ..
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Model Ordinance for Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Date Added: Thursday, March 29, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In order to ensure that solar resources are developed in a way that protects the environment and preserves community character, the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board (RPDB) created a model zoning ordinance as part of it’s work to help get Central New York “Solar Ready.” The model zoning ordinance was developed to assist local governments to address land use concerns and to provide clear guidance and direction to developers and property owners for the appropriate development of solar energy systems...
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Village of Mastic Beach Solar Energy Systems Regulations § 415-2; Solar Zoning; Architectural Review
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Mastic Beach's Code § 415-2 regulates accessory solar energy systems and exempts systems that meet the regulation’s standards from architectural review board approval. These regulations include the requirements that (1) roof-mounted solar systems do not extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the building where the system is located and (2) ground-mounted solar energy systems not extend into the required rear yard accessory setback when oriented at minimum design tilt. Additionally, system design must make best efforts to blend i..
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City of Milton Historic Preservation & Solar Apparatus Regulations § 34-162.3; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Wisconsin
Municipal
Milton’s regulations for historic preservation districts include solar apparatus criteria for the historic preservation commission’s (“HPC”) review of alterations in historic districts. The review criteria allow passive and active solar apparatus that do not detract from a building’s architectural integrity and are as unobtrusive as possible. Solar devices may not hide significant architectural features from street view, result in the loss of these features, or become a major feature of the design because they are large in scale. City of Milton..
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North Carolina’s Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
North Carolina
State
The Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina defines solar energy systems (“SES”), in part, based on their physical size measured in acres. According to the state’s model ordinance, Level 1 SESs include those that are ground-mounted on an area of up to 50 percent of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel but no more than 1 acre. Level 2 SESs are ground-mounted systems with a footprint of less than or equal to a half acre in residential districts, less than or equal to 10 acres in general commercial business a..
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Town of Ossining Code § 183-11(B)(2)(d) Tree Protection & Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Ossining’s tree protection ordinance authorizes approval authorities to grant a tree removal permit if removal will have a positive effect upon (among other things) solar access for the property owner and nearby properties. Town of Ossining, NY, Code § 183-11(B)(2)(d). ..
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Village of Schaumberg Code § 154.62(C) Solar Access Protection; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Illinois
Municipal
The Village of Schaumberg’s Solar Access Protection law authorizes the creation and recording of solar skyspace easements across contiguous or nearby lots, tracts, or land to protect an existing or intended solar collector’s exposure to the sun from obstruction of buildings and trees. Further, the law requires building permit applicants for structures that will increase the consumption of airspace to certify in writing that no solar skyspace easement exists over the lot. If the Village determines that proposed construction will intrude upon an ..
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Town of Somers Code § 144-8(C)(4) Standards for Site Plan Approval; Solar Access
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In the Town of Somers, New York, the planning board must consider solar access, including orientation of proposed buildings to sun angles; shading and windscreen potential of vegetation; and relationship to solar access for adjacent uses and properties when reviewing site plans. Town of Somers, NY, Code § 144-8(C)(4). ..
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Town of Oro Valley Zoning Code § 27.1(A) Solar Protection Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Arizona
Municipal
The Town of Oro Valley’s zoning code includes solar protection provisions that forbid the construction of any structure that would shade an adjacent building when the sun is more than 45 degrees above the horizon unless the applicant obtains written permission from the owner of the potentially shaded property. See Town of Oro Valley, AZ, Zoning Code § 27.1(A)...
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Town of Tonawanda Code § 215-180(C)(9) Large Scale Solar Applications; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Tonawanda authorizes applicants for large-scale or utility-scale solar energy systems to negotiate with adjacent property owners for any necessary solar skyspace easements and requires the applicant to include documentation of any solar skyspace easement that is properly recorded. The Town lists the elements that must, at a minimum, be included in the easement when an applicant or property owner negotiates a solar easement. Town of Tonawanda, NY, Code § 215-180(C)(9)...
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Village of Westfield Zoning Code § 155-57 Solar Systems; Solar Zoning; Solar Access
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Westfield’s supplemental zoning regulations regulates the use of active and passive solar energy systems. Westfield’s solar regulation requires special permits to authorize the placement of a solar electric system on an owner’s property. After a system’s owner obtains this permit, adjoining property owners must obtain a special permit prior to placing buildings, towers, vegetation, or other possible obstructions of the permitted system’s solar access. The regulation specifies that placement of potential obstructions “shall be suc..
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City of White Plains Zoning Code § 4.4.21.2-4; Solar Access; Solar Energy Systems; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of White Plains’ zoning ordinance includes solar access provisions that require all approving agencies to consider access to sunlight for present and potential solar electric systems, both on- and off-site, as well as structure siting, orientation and landscaping when reviewing any application. Further, the provisions prohibit new construction on any lot that would block access to sunlight between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for approved solar electric systems except by permission from the board of appeals if the applicant shows t..
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City of Kellogg Zoning Regulations § 220-56 – Solar Energy Systems; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
Under the City of Kellogg, Minnesota’s zoning code, solar energy systems (SES) and solar and earthsheltered structures are permitted uses, provided certain requirements are met, that may be exempt from certain restrictions by variance. The provisions also forbid vegetation or structures in residential districts if they cast a shadow on an existing SES greater than a determined standard. That standard does not apply to vegetation and structures existing at the time of SES installation. Violation constitutes a private nuisance that gives rise to..
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City of Issaquah Landscape & Tree Preservation Regulations - Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Washington
Municipal
The City of Issaquah’s tree preservation provisions authorizes the approval authority to grant a tree removal permit if removal will provide solar access to buildings incorporating active solar devices, including windows that face south and contain special storage elements to distribute heat energy. City of Issaquah, WA Landscape & Tree Preservation Regulations §§ 18.12.1380(B)(3)(a)(2), 18.12.1385(B)(5), 18.12.141(B)(3). ..
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Town of Gorham Land Use and Development Code § 1A-4[A][4]- Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Maine
Municipal
The Town of Gorham’s density bonus provisions provide a maximum density bonus of 25% over the allowable base density for residential and nonresidential uses in planned unit developments (PUD) in exchange for public amenities, including solar access and energy efficient design, layout, and construction. To qualify for a bonus of 5 percent above the allowable base density, a PUD may provide solar access to 40 percent of the dwelling units and ensure through appropriate deed restrictions that dwelling units will utilize solar energy systems for wa..
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City of Fort Collins Code § 3.2.3(E)(1) - Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Colorado
Municipal
The City of Fort Collins, Colorado adopted solar access, orientation, and shading provisions in its site plan regulations. These provisions require an applicant to locate and design all physical elements in the development plan so that they accommodate active and/or passive solar installations to the extent reasonably feasible. Subsection [C] requires at least 65 percent of lots less than 15,000 square feet in area in single- and two-family residential developments to conform to the regulatory definition of “solar-oriented lot” to preserve the ..
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Town of Farmington, C.T., Code § 111-26 Historic District-Solar Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Connecticut
Municipal
The Town of Farmington, Connecticut’s historic district regulations state that its Historic District and Properties Commission will not deny a certificate of appropriateness for an exterior architectural feature, such as a solar energy system designed for the utilization of renewable resources, unless the Commission finds that the feature cannot be installed without substantially impairing the historic character and appearance of the district. The certificate of appropriateness for a solar energy system may require design modifications and loca..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Unified Solar Application; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson adopted the NY-Sun Unified Solar Permit (USP), a combined building and electrical permit for certain solar energy systems developed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the New York Power Authority (NYPA), and the City University of New York’s Sustainable CUNY. The USP expedites the permitting process for “small-scale solar electric systems,” that have a rated capacity of 12 kW or less and that are installed on a permitted roof structure of a building, or on a legal accessory..
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City of Chula Vista Municipal Code §§ 15.24.065, 15.28.015 - PV PreWiring & Solar H2O Heater PrePlumbing Reqs; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
California
Municipal
The City of Chula Vista’s electrical code includes photovoltaic (PV) pre-wiring requirements that mandate all new residential units to include an electrical conduit specifically designed to allow the later installation of a PV system that utilizes solar energy as a means to provide electricity. Similarly, Chula Vista’s plumbing code requires all new residential units to include plumbing specifically designed to allow the later installation of a solar water heater that utilizes solar energy as the primary means of heating domestic potable water...
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City of Chicago Rooftop Solar PV System Application Process; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Illinois
Municipal
The City of Chicago has made installation of both small rooftop solar PV systems (<13.44kw) and large rooftop solar PV systems (those generating greater than 13.44kw) easier than ever before by easing restrictions and streamlining processes, saving time and design costs. Applicants for small rooftop systems can now access the City’s Easy Permit Process (EPP) where qualifying projects can receive same-day permit approvals at reduced fees. For projects that meet the Easy Permit Process (EPP) requirements, the permitting process was cut down from ..
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Township of Casco Zoning Ordinance §§ 13.26-13.28; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
Michigan
Municipal
Casco Township passed Ordinance #30-83 to add provisions addressing small, medium, and large solar energy systems in its zoning ordinance. The ordinance defines small solar energy systems as single residential or small business-scale solar energy conversion systems consisting of roof panels, ground-mounted solar arrays, or other solar energy fixtures, and associated control or conversion electronics, occupying no more than one-half acre of land and that produce utility power primarily to onsite users or customers. Medium solar energy systems ar..
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City of Boulder Code § 9-9-17 Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Colorado
Municipal
The City of Boulder, Colorado’s solar access regulation divides the city into three solar access areas to provide maximum solar access protection for each area, consistent with planned densities, topography, and lot configurations and orientations. The regulation then establishes solar fences in two of these solar access areas. Each solar fence completely encloses a lot in question, and its foundation is contiguous with lot lines. Further, solar fences are vertical, opaque, and lack any thickness. The regulation then forbids the construction of..
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Township of Bethlehem Land Use Regulations § 102-37.3; Solar Energy Facilities; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New Jersey
Municipal
The Township of Bethlehem’s solar energy facilities regulation requires minor site plan approval for ground-mounted solar energy facilities between 2,000 square feet and 10 acres in size while requiring preliminary and final site plan approval for systems greater than 10 acres in size. The planning board or an appointed site plan subcommittee may waive the minor site plan approval requirement if the proposed facility is reasonable and adheres to the solar regulation’s general purpose and intent. In addition to Bethlehem’s standard site plan req..
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City of Big Flats Subdivision and Development Regulations § 17.36.140; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In section 17.36.140 of its Zoning Ordinance, the Town of Big Flats adopted a solar access regulation that requires applicants for new residential development including either ten or more acre of site development area and/or more than 50 dwelling units to submit a solar access plan with the site plan. The solar access plan must: (1) protect solar access between the solar azimuths of -45 degrees east of due south and +45 degrees west of due south; (2) for solar access roads, design lots and building setbacks so that buildings are oriented with t..
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Town of Babylon Building Regulations §§ 89-91 to 89-95; Solar Zoning; Solar Panel Permit Application
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Long Island United Solar Permitting Initiative, a collaborative effort of the Suffolk County Planning Commission, Nassau County Planning Commission and the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), developed the model LIPA Fast-Track Permit Application to help Long Island municipalities streamline and standardize the building permit application process for “standard” installations of grid-tied PV or Residential Solar Hot Water (RSHW) systems. Babylon Town Code Ch. 89, Art. X established a solar energy system fast-track permit process modeled afte..
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City of Meriden Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Connecticut
Municipal
Within its Zoning Chapter, the City of Meriden in Connecticut has incorporated a separate section outlining the few regulations for wind energy conservation systems and solar devices. According to the section, screening on a roof to enclose mechanical equipment may be modified to allow access to solar heating devices. The section also goes on to require that solar heating devices do not occupy more than 10% of the yard area and that any new construction be mindful of solar devices on adjoining properties so that the maximum effort to retain sol..
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City of McCall Subdivision and Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Idaho
Municipal
Within its Subdivision and Development Provisions Chapter, the City of McCall in Idaho makes a slight mention of solar heat and light. The City requires that within a subdivision plan, the applicant orient streets in a way to take advantage of the solar heat and light provided by the sun during the winter months. Other this one sub-section, this Chapter makes no other mention of solar energy systems. This could possibly create a barrier to their implementation since property owners would likely not be aware of the benefits or possibilities of i..
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City of Manson City Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Iowa
Municipal
Within its City Code, Manson City has incorporated an entire chapter on access to solar energy. A major section within that chapter is one that outlines the requirements and process for obtaining solar access easements. The solar access regulatory board may grant these easements, subject to a number of requirements. One of those requirements includes filing a detailed application with the secretary of the planning and zoning commission, which includes a description of the solar collector to be used, a legal description of the solar access easem..
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County of Los Alamos Solar Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New Mexico
Municipal
Los Alamos County in New Mexico has incorporated a solar energy collection system section within its Code of Ordinances. According to the section, when a solar energy collection system is already installed on a parcel, accessory structures or vegetation on the abutting lot may not block the solar collector’s access to solar energy. Property owners must also file and record the solar system installation with the county clerk on the day the building permit for the improvement is issued.
..
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City of Longmont Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Colorado
Municipal
In Longmont, Colorado, the City Code of Ordinance permits solar panels in all districts as an accessory use. However, the only regulation Longmont includes within its code for solar panels and/or energy systems is that “the height shall not exceed the maximum structure height for the zoning district in which they are located.”
..
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Township of London Grove Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Pennsylvania
Municipal
London Grove’s extensive Zoning Code incorporates a separate and informative section on solar energy systems, § 27-1839. According to § 27-1839, solar energy systems are permitted in all zoning districts as an accessory use, except that in two districts, “a special exception is required for the installation of any ground mounted solar energy system on any property less than 8,000 square feet.” The section goes on to list a number of development and design standards that are to be applied to the construction and installation of any solar energy ..
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City of Lindsborg Design Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Kansas
Municipal
In Lindsborg’s Code of Ordinances, the City has created certain design requirements for all zoning districts to adhere to. Within these design requirements, Lindsborg aims to encourage, where appropriate, the “conservation of energy through the use of both passive and active solar systems.” In order to accommodate solar design, the City requires that streets in residential subdivisions have an east-west alignment when possible. Lindsborg also permits a subdivider to grant or establish a solar skyspace easement to protect solar energy systems fr..
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City of Asheville Zoning Regulations; Chapter 7 – Development, Section 29.1309- Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
North Carolina
Municipal
In its lengthy Zoning Ordinance, the City of Asheville has dedicated only a small subsection to the implementation of solar energy systems within its zoning districts. In Sec. 7-14-1(b)(a), the City’s only real general requirement is that “private, non-commercial solar energy systems shall comply with the minimum setback requirements.” The subsection goes on to describe the requirements for a variance the Board of Adjustment may grant to decrease the required setbacks or allow the installation to be located in the front yard. The subsection, ho..
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City of Ames Zoning Code; Section 29.1309- Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of Ames, Iowa has dedicated a whole section in the “Additional Requirements for Specific Uses” Article of its City Code to the implementation of solar energy systems, § 29.1309. Section 1309’s purpose is to “facilitate the installation and constructions of solar energy systems so that the systems are safe, effective, and efficient, as well as harmonious with the character of the adjacent area where located.” The section goes on to list the design and placement requirements for Freestanding, Residential Attached, and Non-Residential Att..
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City of Albany Zoning Ordinance; Section 375-93- Solar Energy Equipment
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Within its Zoning Ordinance, the City of Albany outlines its solar energy systems requirements in its own section, § 375-93. In it, the City requires that any person who wishes to install a solar energy system in a C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District shall have the installation reviewed by the Planning staff prior to the issuance of the building permit. This process will increase the amount of time and administrative requirements necessary to install these systems, becoming a barrier to their implementation.
..
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Town of Addis Zoning Ordinance; Passive Solar Energy
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Louisiana
Municipal
In its zoning ordinance, the Town of Addis lists and defines its different zoning districts. It makes only a small mention of solar energy systems, specifically passive ones, in Section 6. There, the ordinance describes that all structures in the Town of Addis shall maximize passive solar energy systems and shall not require a variance if the system infringes upon required yard areas. However, the ordinance does not specify design or placement standards for these passive solar energy systems, presenting a barrier to its implementation.
..
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City of Aberdeen Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Alternative Energy, Solar Energy, Zoning
South Dakota
Municipal
The purpose of this chapter is to encourage alternative energy systems within the City of Aberdeen. The goal is to have a more positive impact on energy conservation while having a limited adverse impact on the City’s community. Chapter 163 defines terms associated with wind and solar energy systems and outlines their placement and design standards within City borders. However, in order for a solar energy system to be permitted as an accessory in any zoning district, a person must first apply for a building permit. This can cause a barrier to s..
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City of Ketchum Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Idaho
Municipal
The City of Ketchum incorporates solar access throughout its zoning regulations. One way in which the city integrated solar access is in the context of parks. According to its regulations, parks will be designed to have open space for solar access during the colder months. Another example is within the city’s Design Review District. One of Ketchum’s purposes for that District is to “provide for and protect existing light, air, solar access and orientation, privacy, views, and vistas by the proper and efficient location of building sites and des..
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Borough of Kutztown Subdivision and Land Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
Pennsylvania
Municipal
In its Subdivision and Land Development Chapter, the Borough of Kutztown in Pennsylvania included a small section on considerations for solar access. The section permits the Borough Council to allow variation to side lot line requirements if the goal is to maximize use of solar energy. Additionally, considerations will also be given to reserving solar easements within lots for protection of solar access. ..
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Borough of Kenhorst Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Pennsylvania
Municipal
Within its Zoning Chapter, the Borough of Kenhorst has incorporated a section specifically on Solar Energy Systems, § 540. According to § 540, “the use of solar energy systems, including solar collectors, storage facilities, distribution components, heating and cooling facilities, is a permitted use in all zoning districts.” The Township requires that all developments and structures be oriented in a way to maximize the use of passive and active solar energy. The section lists a few regulations for solar energy systems including required yard se..
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Kansas City Zoning and Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Missouri
Municipal
According to its Zoning & Development Code, building-mounted and ground-mounted solar energy systems are permitted in all zoning districts in Kansas City, Missouri as accessory structures. The section on accessory solar energy systems in the Code authorizes property owners to negotiate for any desired solar easements to protect access to sunlight. The section goes on to list certain regulations for both building-mounted and ground-mounted solar energy systems. For example, solar energy systems may not extend more than three feet above the appli..
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Township of Jackson Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Ohio
Municipal
Within its Zoning Resolution, Jackson Township in Ohio has included a chapter on solar energy systems. According to the chapter, an accessory solar energy system is permitted as an accessory use in any district, subject to a number of regulations outlined in sections throughout the rest of the chapter. Some of those regulations include specific requirements for roof/structure mounted and ground/pole mounted systems as well as solar energy production facilities. For example, a solar energy production facility must be located on at least five ac..
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Town of Ithaca Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning; Subdivision Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Ithaca has enacted a section on Solar Access within its chapter on the subdivision of land. The section is a short one, but vests power to the Planning Board to require a subdivision to be platted “so as to preserve or enhance solar access for either passive or active systems.” The Planning Board may also mandate site plan modifications if it determines that the solar orientation of the development needs improvement.
The Town of Ithaca has also included a section solely on solar collectors and installation within its Zoning Chap..
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City of Independence Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Kansas
Municipal
Independence, Kansas has created an entire article within its Code of Ordinances specifically for solar access regulations. The article authorizes the citizens of Independence to enter into solar easement agreements with other property owners. These easements shall establish the “solar skyspace” envelope within which it “shall be unlawful for the owner of real property to erect a building or structure or to allow a tree, shrub or other flora to case a shadow upon a solar collector.” The majority of the article is focused on regulations for thes..
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City of Hoboken Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New Jersey
Municipal
Within its Zoning Chapter, the City of Hoboken in New Jersey has integrated a section specifically for solar installation. The section lists regulations for roof installation, non-habitable building installation, ground-mounted installation, and signage requirements. In order to install a solar energy system on a parcel, however, an applicant must first obtain a certificate of zoning compliance and a building permit from the Zoning Officer and the Construction Official, respectively. The City of Hoboken has also reserved the right to require th..
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City of Lenexa Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Kansas
Municipal
Within Lenexa’s Zoning District Regulations, solar energy systems are permitted as an accessory use. According to the regulations, solar energy systems are to be designed to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood and comply with a number of standards. Those standards include maintenance and access; location; and compliance with the Building Code requirements. The Regulations also outline specific requirements for roof-mounted equipment. ..
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City of Lewes Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Delaware
Municipal
Despite its lengthy Zoning Chapter, the City of Lewes in Delaware only mentions solar panels once throughout the entire chapter. The Chapter states that the Lewes Historic Preservation Commission may not deny the addition of solar panels in the city’s Historic District except to designate reasonable alternative design and/or placement. ..
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Town of Henlopen Acres Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Delaware
Municipal
The Town of Henlopen Acres in Delaware only permits roof-mounted solar panels/collectors to be installed and used on any principal structure. These panels are subject to any applicable building code, “including but not limited to the International Residential Code, Section M2301 and approved by the Environmental Review Committee (ERC).” The Town sets forth certain regulations for solar panels such as prohibiting the panels from being installed on the roof surface facing the street and requiring they be parallel to and not higher than six inches..
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City of Henderson Use Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Nevada
Municipal
In Henderson, Nevada solar collection systems are permitted as an accessory use in all use districts. Within its Use Regulations chapter, Henderson lists specific setback, location, and height regulations for these solar collection systems. For example, “in all zoning districts, free-standing solar collection systems shall be located a minimum of six feet from all property lines and other structures.” Henderson further lists requirements for solar collection systems’ appearances such as integrating the system into the design and architectural c..
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City of Hagerston Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
Hagerston, Maryland has integrated an Alternative Energy Sources/Generators section, Section K(12), within its Zoning Ordinance supplementary regulations. According to that section, before an applicant can install a solar energy system on her property, she must first submit a zoning permit application with a plan for review by the Planning and Code Administration Division. “Once the zoning permit is approved, the applicant may apply for proper permits from the Code Administration Office.” Section K(12) permits ground-mounted solar collection sy..
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Town of Haddam Subdivision Regulations; Passive Solar Energy Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
Connecticut
Municipal
Haddam, Connecticut has enacted a section, § 302-36, within its chapter on subdivision regulations specifically for passive solar energy techniques. Section 302-36 defines passive solar energy techniques as “site design techniques which maximize solar heat gain, minimize heat loss and provide thermal storage within a building during the heating season and minimize heat gain, and provide for natural ventilation during the cooling season.” According to the section, a subdivision applicant must demonstrate to the Commission that she has considered..
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City of Grand Rapids Alternative Energy Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Michigan
Municipal
Under its section on Alternative Energy within its Code of Ordinances, Grand Rapids, Michigan incorporated a subsection on solar energy. According to that sub-section, solar energy systems are permitted as an accessory use in all districts. “In Residential Zone Districts, solar energy systems may be installed on the roof of a primary or accessory structure.” The subsection goes on to list placement regulations as well as the factors the Planning Director will have to consider for an Administrative Departure to allow for solar panels on the fron..
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City of Grand Fork Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
North Dakota
Municipal
In its Code of Ordinances, Grand Forks, North Dakota has integrated a small section on Solar Access, Section 18-0307. The section states, “When a solar energy collection system is installed on a lot, accessory structures or vegetation on any abutting lot shall not be located so as to block the solar collector’s access to solar energy.” Section 18-0307 goes on to outline the portion of a solar collector that is protected by the ordinance and state that the requirements of the Solar Access section do not apply to “structures or vegetation existin..
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City of Gothenberg Subdivision Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
Nebraska
Municipal
Within its Subdivision Chapter in its Code of Ordinances, the city of Gothenberg in Nebraska has integrated a section on solar access for energy conservation. The section consists of only two sub-sections that require streets in residential subdivision, where possible, have an east-west alignment and, in order to allow the orientation of structures on the site to maximize solar gain, “side lot lines should run as near to north-south as possible.”..
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Town of Gorham Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New Hampshire
Municipal
Within its Zoning Ordinance, the Town of Gorham in New Hampshire defines solar energy systems as “any equipment or system utilizing solar energy to provide electricity and/or space heating or cooling, hot water heating and swimming pool heating.” Within the Town of Gorham, roof- or wall- mounted solar collectors are a permitted use in all zoning districts. Non-roof- or wall-mounted solar energy systems, however, are only allowed by special exception. “All installations are required to meet Section M2301 of the International Building Code.” ..
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Town of Francestown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New Hampshire
Municipal
Solar and wind-powered devices are permitted in Francestown, New Hampshire for commercial use on lots of three acres or more at an elevation of fewer than 1,000 feet. According to its table of Permitted Uses and Special Exceptions, solar and wind-powered devices are permitted in Francestown’s Village and Rural Districts by special exception as well as in its Steep Slope, Aquifer, and Flood Plain Overlay Districts. Francestown, however, does not have a separate section within its Zoning Ordinance that describes the regulations or requirements fo..
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City of Ferndale Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Michigan
Municipal
Ferndale, Michigan permits solar energy systems in all of its zoning districts as an accessory structure, subject to a number of requirements. These requirements include that the systems meet all other applicable construction codes; the design of the system must conform to applicable industry standards; and that the systems be screened per the discretion of the community development department. Solar energy systems, according to a sub-section within Ferndale’s Zoning Chapter, also have to meet the height and setback requirements of the zoning d..
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Town of Fenwick Island Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Delaware
Municipal
Under its Renewable Energy System section within its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Fenwick Island in Delaware permits solar energy systems its zoning districts. According to Section 160-9(A), a “solar energy system is a renewable energy system designed and used to obtain energy from the sun in order to supply energy to a principal use of a structure.” These systems include but are not limited to solar hot water, air heating and cooling, and photovoltaic systems. The solar energy system sub-section goes on to list a few conditions that an applican..
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City of Fairbault Zoning and Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
Fairbault, Minnesota permits solar energy systems in all of its zoning districts. In a separate sub-section within its Code of Ordinances, Fairbault lists a few solar energy systems regulations that only apply to properties that have more than four square feet of solar panels. These regulations include a maximum of one hundred twenty square feet of solar panels on one property parcel; specific requirements for roof-mounted and ground-mounted systems; and that an applicant must obtain building and electrical permits for all systems over four squ..
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City of Falcon Heights Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
Falcon Heights, Minnesota has incorporated an extensive solar energy systems section with its Zoning Chapter. In Section 113-254, active solar energy systems are permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts, subject to a number of regulations. Those regulations include height requirements for building- or roof-mounted, ground-mounted, and pole-mounted systems; a number setback requirements; and that “active solar energy systems be designed to blend into the architecture of the building or be screened from routine view from public right..
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City of Dubuque Unified Development Code; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Iowa
Municipal
In Dubuque, Iowa’s Unified Development Code, solar collectors are permitted in Single-Family Residential Districts, Two-Family Residential Districts, Alternate Two-Family Residential Districts, Moderate Density Multi-Family Residential Districts, Multi-Family Residential Districts, Office Residential Districts, and Office Commercial Districts as accessory use structures. Dubuque’s Development Code also includes a Sustainable Subdivision Development program whereby applicants must achieve a minimum score of forty points by utilizing a list of to..
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Borough of Doylestown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Pennsylvania
Municipal
In its Zoning Chapter, Doylestown, Pennsylvania created a section specifically for solar energy equipment, Section 615. Defined in the Specific Definition section of the chapter, solar energy equipment is “any device, structure or electronics that converts solar energy into electrical energy, heats water or produces hot air or similar function through the use of solar panels.” In it, Doylestown authorizes solar energy equipment in any zoning district as an accessory structure. The section goes on to list a few regulations including that the equ..
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Town of Denton Zoning Bufferyard Requirements; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
According to Denton, Maryland’s zoning chapter, solar collectors and similar equipment, fixtures, and devices are exempt from district height limitation set forth within the rest of the chapter. The chapter, however, makes no mention of where solar collectors are actually permitted. Additionally, within its Bufferyard Requirements Appendix, the Town of Denton makes a small mention of solar access. In a sub-section under the Plant Material section, the Town allows for understory trees to be substituted for canopy trees where canopy trees would d..
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Town of Denton Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
According to Denton, Maryland’s zoning chapter, solar collectors and similar equipment, fixtures, and devices are exempt from district height limitation set forth within the rest of the chapter. The chapter, however, makes no mention of where solar collectors are actually permitted. Additionally, within its Bufferyard Requirements Appendix, the Town of Denton makes a small mention of solar access. In a sub-section under the Plant Material section, the Town allows for understory trees to be substituted for canopy trees where canopy trees would d..
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City of Del Mar Solar Energy Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
California
Municipal
Del Mar, California has integrated an entire chapter in its zoning code on solar energy. The chapter “is intended to implement adopted federal, state, and local policies by decreasing the City’s dependence upon non-renewable energy systems for sources through the encouragement of solar energy systems for the hearing of buildings and water.” Chapter 23.20 goes on to define important terms used within the chapter and lists specific regulations for space heating and cooling of new structures, remodels of existing structures, and use of solar syste..
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Town of Coventry Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Rhode Island
Municipal
Despite its lengthy Zoning Code, Coventry, Rhode Island does not incorporate a section specifically detailing the requirements and regulations for solar energy systems. However, within its Transportation, Communications, and Utilities table (schedule) of uses under its Industry Section, solar power generators are permitted in mostly all of the zoning districts, with the exception of two types of residential districts, one business district, the Planned Development District, and the Special Planning Overlay District. The Zoning Code does not def..
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City of Cottage Grove Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
In Cottage Grove, Minnesota, the city has established a Low-Density Residential District “where all public services, utilities and amenities needed for urban residential development are available” and development densities do not exceed five dwelling units per gross acre. Cottage Grove does permit density bonuses in this District between 0-5% if applicants demonstrate innovative energy conservation efforts, including orientation of lost for maximum use of passive solar energy and preservation of solar access for active solar energy systems. Sol..
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City of College Place Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Washington
Municipal
Within its Code of Ordinances, College Place, Washington has not integrated a separate section on Solar Access, but has defined it to mean “direct sunlight for the purpose of successfully operating a solar energy system.” The Zoning Ordinance outlines certain requirements for a planned unit development and allows for the maximum number of dwelling units permitted to be increased by 15 percent and an additional five percent for developments which incorporate street and lot orientation to maximize solar access; tree plantings selected to avoid wi..
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Town of Clifton Park Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In Clifton Park, New York, solar arrays, both ground- or pole-mounted, are permitted as a special use in Agricultural/Residential 3 Districts, Residential 1 Districts, Conservation Residential Zones, and Hamlet Residential Districts. Clifton Park outlines factors in a separate subsection to be considered by the Planning Board in determining the sighting requirements for solar installation in these zoning districts. These factors include the “setbacks proposed and available in relation to other applicable setbacks for the zone within which the i..
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City of Cleveland Heights Zoning Supplementary Accessory Use Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Ohio
Municipal
Within its zoning supplementary accessory use regulations, Cleveland Heights, Ohio integrated two sub-sections on solar panels and building-mounted systems. Under its solar panels sub-section, Cleveland Heights lists certain regulations including the requirement that solar panels be placed so that concentrated solar radiation or glare is not directed onto nearby properties or roadways and that all power transmission lines from a ground-mounted solar energy system be located underground. Under its building-mounted systems sub-section, the city ..
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County of Camden Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
North Carolina
Municipal
In Camden County, North Carolina solar farms are permitted in all zoning districts, however, a special use permit must first be acquired. Within its zoning code, Camden County integrated a sub-section outlining standards for solar farms such as a minimum lot size, minimum setbacks, and a 50-foot buffer from routine view. Solar collectors as an accessory use are also permitted in all zoning districts in Camden County, however, in order to install them, an applicant must either obtain a special use permit (if there are three or more collectors) o..
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Township of Caln Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Pennsylvania
Municipal
The Township of Caln in Pennsylvania has integrated two sections in its zoning code on solar energy production facilities, Section 155-98, and solar photovoltaic systems, Section 155-126. In Section 155-98, solar energy production facilities are permitted by conditional use in the Institutional Zoning District and include design standards and specifications such as a minimum net lot area, a maximum height, and the overall facility design. Section 155-126 aims to promote the safe, effective, and efficient use of solar energy systems. The section..
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City of Calimesa Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
California
Municipal
Calimesa, California has created a subsection under its zoning chapter on Residential Zone District specifically for listing solar energy design standards. Calimesa requires that future structures should be oriented to maximize solar access opportunities and that “streets, lot sizes and lot configurations should be designed to maximize the number of structures oriented so that the south wall and roof area face within 45 degrees of due north.” Other standards include that roof-mounted solar collectors be placed in the most obscure location and ..
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City of Burlington, Washington Zoning Regulations; Solar Access
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Washington
Municipal
Section 14.48.110, placed within the City Code’s chapter on performance standards, lists solar access criteria for any new construction that is south of existing residential land in Burlington, Washington. The criteria include prohibiting multi family, commercial, or industrial structure more than one story in height from shading the maximum building envelope of any existing dwelling as determined by the angle of the sun on December 21st; site plans that show the shading impacts of new structures on existing dwellings or vacant lots; and measur..
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City of Burlington (VT) Zoning Regulations and Development Review Standards; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Vermont
Municipal
Within its Development Review Standards Article in its Zoning Code, Burlington, Vermont includes provisions to encourage solar energy system installations. A major goal in Burlington is to support the use of renewable energy resources, including maximizing solar access within an applicant’s site plan. Maximizing solar access is not limited to only residential or actual building projects, but also where public space is provided as an amenity to the site plan; the open space shall be sited on the parcel to maximize solar exposure. Additionally, s..
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Village of Buffalo Grove Planned United Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Planned Unit Development, Solar Energy
Illinois
Municipal
Buffalo Grove in Illinois has created a Planned Unit Development (PUD) section within its Code of Ordinances, Section 17.28.050. Residential dwelling units within this PUD district shall be calculated on the net acreage of the site, where percentages will be applied to the base density. The PUD section does include a solar energy incentive when calculating the percentages for residential dwelling units. Under the incentive, Buffalo Grove will allocate three percent for the provision of solar housing design elements or if one hundred percent of..
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County of Brown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
In its Zoning Ordinance, Brown County in Minnesota lists solar energy systems and solar structures as permitted uses in the Agricultural/Shoreland Protection District, Highway Business District, General Business District, and Limited Industry. Section 702 of its Zoning Ordinance, however, permits solar energy systems and solar structures as accessory uses in all districts, including residential ones, “provided the system is in compliance with minimum lot requirement and setbacks.” The section also goes on to include solar energy systems as elig..
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County of Broward Solar Zoning Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Florida
Municipal
Broward County, Florida enacted Ordinance No. 2012-22 to amend its Code of Ordinances, specifically within its Zoning Article, to create a new section, 39-109, entitled “Rooftop Photovoltaic Solar Systems.” Section 39-109 permits photovoltaic solar systems as accessory equipment in all zoning categories and provides for severability with an effective date. The section lists height and maintenance regulations as well as the requirements for a permit an owner must obtain before installation. ..
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City of Boynton Beach Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Florida
Municipal
Boynton Beach, Florida has incorporated Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Arrays regulations within its Zoning Code in a separate subsection. In that subsection, Boynton Beach lists height, location, and rooftop requirements. The PV Arrays sub-section also describes regulations for wall mounted or flush to a building or structure solar energy systems. These regulations include a required yard setback by more than three feet, a minimum dimension of nine feet, and a wall mounted PV array design that is compatible with the structure and surface to which it ..
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County of Blaine Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Idaho
Municipal
Blaine County, Idaho has created a number of zoning regulations in its county code. As part of its regulations, Blaine County has dedicated a chapter specifically for solar utilities facilities. These regulations include how collector system panels and mounts are to be installed; height restrictions of BIPB and roof collected mounted panels; and the way in which ground and pole mounted solar collectors are to be anchored. Blaine County has also created additional standards for solar energy systems located within the county’s overlay districts. ..
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City of Biloxi Zoning and Sustainable Design Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Mississippi
Municipal
Biloxi, MS has dedicated an entire section in its zoning code to Sustainable Design in order to “promote sustainable development practices as a means of addressing global climate change, protecting natural resources, and ensuring a high quality of life for future city residents.” As part of encouraging its citizens to build more sustainably, Biloxi created a Sustainable Development Point Requirement, where “all applications for approval of a Site Plan for nonresidential, mixed-use, and multifamily residential development” shall incorporate a nu..
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Town of Berlin Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
In its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Berlin has created a section specifically for site design guidelines, Section 108-274. Within that section, Berlin has authorized solar energy use. A developer or owner must consider the feasibility and desirability of active and passive solar energy use before installation. Builders must also “orient proposed buildings and provide structures to provide for solar energy use and to preserve solar access of adjoining properties.” ..
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City of Bentonville Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Arkansas
Municipal
The city of Bentonville, Arkansas has created a separate Article, 601, in its Zoning Code for all use regulations. Section 601.24 specifically describes the requirements for solar energy systems. Bentonville considers the number of solar panels and supporting equipment as one system, without any limitation as to the number of modules and arrays installed on the property. The section includes location, height, and setback requirements for roof mounted, ground mounted systems, and pole mounted systems. Section 601.24 also includes regulations for..
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City of Belfast Site Plan Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Site Plan Approval, Solar Energy, Zoning
Maine
Municipal
Chapter 90 of the City of Belfast’s Code lists site plan criteria. Those criteria include pollution control, groundwater access, landscaping, and access to direct sunlight for an abutting property owner for solar energy system. Sec. 90 -42(17) goes on to state that the Planning Board may prohibit, restrict, or control development in order to protect and ensure access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. ..
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City of Belfast Energy and Efficiency Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Maine
Municipal
Within its Zoning Code, the city of Belfast in Maine has incorporated a chapter to enable its citizens to participate in a Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”) Program. The PACE Program will create opportunities for “owners of qualifying propert[ies]” to “access financing for energy saving improvements to their properties.” This Program, under Belfast’s chapter, creates these financing opportunities for not only solar thermal systems, but also many other renewable sources such as photovoltaic systems, biomass systems, landfill gas to energy ..
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Town of Bedford Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Within its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Bedford includes solar panels in its Accessory buildings or structures section, § 125-27. Bedford lists solar energy collectors and studios as an accessory structure permitted in all districts, subject to a list of requirements including floor area minimums and maximums, height maximums, and ground floor area measurements. § 125-27, however, does not specify requirements for solar energy systems individually.
Bedford created the Bedford Energy Task Force to help the Bedford 2020 Coalition accomplish ..
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Town of Babylon Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Babylon does not dedicate any specific section to the implementation of solar energy systems. The Code does permit solar energy production facilities that are not less than 50 acres, subject to restrictions placed by the Planning Board in two Residence Districts, A and C, as well as the Town’s Business District. In terms of new architectural design requirements, developers and owners are permitted to install solar roof panels. The Chapter, however, does not describe specific requirements for solar energy syste..
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City of Austin Zoning Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Texas
Municipal
The City of Austin, Texas has integrated zoning for solar within its zoning ordinance not as a separate section or chapter, but mostly within its Building Design Standards Article. According to its Zoning Ordinance, Austin permits solar collectors in Residential Use zoning districts as accessory use structures. In order to satisfy the building requirements under the Building Design Standards Article, each building must earn one point from a number of design options laid out in § 3.3.2, Table C. One of those options is to “integrate solar power ..
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The Land Use Stabilization Wedge Strategy: Shifting Ground to Mitigate Climate Change
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017Emissions, Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Land Use Planning, Local Environmental Law, Local Governance, Solar Energy, Wind Energy
State: Not Applicable
N/A
This article by John R. Nolon was published in William & Mary Environmental Law & Policy Review. The article describes how local governments, through the clever application of existing land use techniques, can mitigate climate change. This strategic path follows one developed by Princeton professor Robert Socolow, who identified and described fifteen categories for organizing society's climate change mitigation efforts. Five of Socolow's strategic categories fall within the reach of local land use authority: reduced use of vehicles, energy effi..
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City of Milwaukie Solar Access Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Solar Energy
Oregon
Municipal
Milwaukie’s solar access ordinance seeks to provide solar access protection to new development in subdivisions, new and remodeled single-family homes, structures within single-family zoning districts and homes which make beneficial use of solar energy; promote energy conservation; and provide a means of encouraging investment in solar design and solar equipment...
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City of Bend Solar Setback Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Solar Energy
Oregon
Municipal
Title 10-10 of the Bend Code attempts to provide as much solar access as feasible during the winter solar heating hours to existing or potential buildings by requiring all new structures to be constructed as far south on their lots as is feasible and necessary...
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City of Ashland Solar Access Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
Oregon
Municipal
In its Zoning Code, the City of Ashland has dedicated a lengthy chapter on Solar Access. The purpose of the Solar Access chapter is “to provide protection of a reasonable amount of sunlight from shade from structures and vegetation whenever feasible to all parcels in the City to preserve the economic value of solar radiation falling on structures, investments in solar energy systems, and the options for future uses of solar energy.” The rest of the chapter provides requirements for where solar energy systems may be placed including lot classifi..
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City of Iola Solar Access Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Solar Energy
Kansas
Municipal
This ordinance dictates subdivision lot alignment in order to facilitate the use of solar energy systems, and establishes a program for solar skyspace easements to protect access to solar energy. It uses land-use regulations, not for a specific land-preservation goal, but for energy conservation purposes...
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City of San Francisco Solar Energy Revenue Bond Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Solar Energy
California
Municipal
This is a voter approved ordinance which allows the city to issue 100 million dollars’ worth of revenue bonds to pay for solar panels, wind turbines and energy efficiency measures for public buildings. The measure is designed to pay for itself through energy savings and at no cost to taxpayers. The money that would have gone to buy electricity from power plants instead goes to pay down the bond. ..
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City of Shawnee Solar Easements Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017Solar Energy
Kansas
Municipal
The solar easement ordinance establishes a program for solar skyspace easements to protect access to solar energy. It uses land-use regulations, not for a specific land-preservation goal, but for energy conservation purposes...
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Goodhue County Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Zoning
Minnesota
Municipal
Goodhue County adopted solar energy system (SES) regulations in Article 19 of its zoning ordinance. These regulations define a ground-mounted SES as a solar collector located on the ground surface that is physically affixed or attached to the ground, including pole-mounted systems. The regulations define a roof-mounted SES as a solar collector located on the roof of a building or structure that may be physically affixed or attached to the roof. For both ground-mounted and roof-mounted SESs, the regulations include sub-definitions for residentia..
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Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Renewable Energy Ordinance Framework Solar PV
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016Solar Energy, Zoning
Delaware
Regional Planning Entity
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Alternative Energy Ordinance Working Group developed the DVRPC Renewable Energy Ordinance Frameworks to help municipalities adopt regulations for small-scale renewable energy systems. The ordinance frameworks “provide a menu of sample ordinance language options, both permissive and restrictive, to allow municipalities to build a customized ordinance that addresses their local issues.” The frameworks offer a range of development standards for municipalities to choose from, including requirements..
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Massachusetts Model Solar Bylaw: Allowing Use of Large-Scale Ground-Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installations
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016Solar Energy, Zoning
Massachusetts
State
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs’ Department of Energy Resources developed a model zoning bylaw that defines large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installation as solar photovoltaic systems that are structurally mounted on the ground (not roof-mounted) that have a minimum nameplate capacity of 250 kW DC...
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Worcester County, Maryland Alternative Energy Facilities Regulation
Date Added: Thursday, June 30, 2016Alternative Energy, Solar Energy, Zoning
Maryland
Municipal
In its alternative energy facilities regulation, Worcester County defines solar energy systems, in part, based on energy capacity. It defines large solar energy systems as those with a rated capacity of two hundred kilowatts or greater. Medium solar energy systems are ground-mounted systems with a rated capacity greater than five kilowatts but less than two hundred kilowatts or roof-mounted systems of any capacity in excess of five kilowatts. Finally, small solar energy systems have a rated capacity of five kilowatts or less. ..
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Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina
Date Added: Wednesday, June 29, 2016Solar Energy
North Carolina
State
The Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina defines solar energy systems, in part, based on their physical size measured in acres. According to the state’s model ordinance, Level 1 Solar Energy Systems include those that are “ground-mounted on an area of up to 50 [percent] of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel but no more than [one] acre,” and Level 2 Solar Energy Systems are ground-mounted systems with a footprint of less than or equal to a half acre in residential districts, less than or equal to 10 ac..
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City and County of San Francisco Green Building, Environment Codes - Better Roof Requirements for Renewable Energy Facilities
Date Added: Wednesday, June 22, 2016Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Solar Energy
California
Municipal
In order to combat climate change and its potential effects on the peninsula based city, San Francisco has become the first large American city to enact an ordinance mandating that all new structures, fewer than 10 stories tall, must be outfitted with solar panels. This ordinance will take effect in 2017. The San Francisco ordinance exceeds the requirements set by state law mandating that new buildings must reserve a “solar zone” of roof space for the installation of solar panels. Although the article states that the California law mandates a ..
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City of Albuquerque Solar Permit Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Solar Energy
New Mexico
Municipal
This ordinance was created to clarify the rights people have in terms of using solar power. Specifically, there are limits to the creation of solar power rights, as well as a permitting and recording requirements...
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