Large-scale, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic facility—Standards
(a) The maximum height of ground-mounted solar energy panels shall be 15 feet. The height of a ground-mounted solar energy system shall be measured from the ground level or the base of the system's pedestal to the highest point of the solar energy system or the base of the system's pedestal.
(b) Ground-mounted solar energy systems shall conform to the yard requirements of the applicable zoning district or be set back a distance equal to the total height of a panel, whichever is greater.
(c) Electrical wiring and connections from the solar energy system to any building(s) they serve shall be underground to the extent compatible with the topography and site conditions, unless the electrical lines must come aboveground at their termination point to connect to the building or utility line receiving the solar-generated electricity or due to the requirements of the landfill closure plan.
(d) Electrical, plumbing, and/or building permits from the building official, following LDP approval from the planning board, shall be required.
(e) Parking and aisle width requirements. The applicant shall demonstrate that adequate access, parking, driveway and access aisle widths and circulation are provided for service and emergency vehicles as determined by the board in consultation with the fire chief.
(f) Drainage. Erosion and sedimentation control shall conform to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Stormwater Design Manual and all applicable regulations of the Town of Bristol.
(g) Landscaping. Clearing of natural vegetation shall be limited to what is necessary for the construction, operation and maintenance of the large-scale ground-mounted, solar photovoltaic field or as otherwise prescribed by applicable laws, regulations, and by-laws.
(h) Reasonable efforts, as determined by the board, shall be made to place all utility connections from the SPF underground, depending upon appropriate soil conditions, shape, topography of the site, sub-surface conditions, and any requirements of the utility provider. Electrical transformers for utility interconnections may be above ground if required by the utility provider or as required by landfill closure plan.
(i) Lighting of a ground-mounted solar photovoltaic facility shall be consistent with local, state, and federal law. Lighting of other parts of the facility, such as appurtenant structures, shall be limited to that required for safety and operational purposes, and shall be reasonably shielded from abutting properties. Where feasible, lighting of the facility shall be directed downward and shall incorporate full cut-off fixtures to reduce light pollution.
(j) Main access. At the main entrance to the facility, the property shall be secured from unauthorized access subject to the review and acceptance of the planning board and concurrence of the director of public works and the fire chief as it relates to the provision of emergency services.
(Ord. No. 2019-07, 6-26-19)