Solar energy systems
(a) Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to permit and facilitate appropriately scaled solar energy systems and to establish criteria and development standards that maximize their effectiveness and efficiency.
(b) Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Freestanding accessory solar energy system means a solar energy system that is incidental and subordinate to the principal use(s) of a parcel.
Freestanding solar energy system means a solar energy system that is not attached to a structure and is ground mounted.
Roof mounted solar energy system means a solar energy system mounted on the roof of a structure, including a principal or accessory structure.
Solar energy system means a device to provide for the collection, conversion, storage and distribution of energy derived from solar radiation for space heating or cooling, electricity generation, or water heating.
(c) Roof mounted solar energy systems. Roof mounted solar energy systems are permitted in all zones as accessory uses subject to the following development criteria:
(1) Roof mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed the height limitations prescribed by the zoning district in which they are located.
(2) All roof mounted solar energy systems shall be designed and located to prevent reflective glare toward any adjacent properties.
(3) With the exception of the solar panels, all equipment associated with roof mounted solar energy systems, including but not limited to controls, energy storage devices, heat pumps, exchangers, or other materials, hardware or equipment necessary to the process by which solar radiation is converted into another form of energy shall be screened from street view.
(d) Freestanding solar energy systems. If the following development standards can be met, freestanding accessory solar energy systems shall be permitted as accessory uses to the single-family or multi-family nature of a property as indicated within article III of this chapter, entitled "land use table." Any exceptions to the development standards shall require a special use permit. Freestanding solar energy systems proposed as a principal use within a residential zone are prohibited.
(1) Any freestanding solar energy system that requires a special use permit pursuant to article III and section 21-13 shall adhere to the requirements of this section.
(2) Properties with freestanding solar energy systems shall provide adequate emergency vehicle access and a minimum of two parking spaces for routine maintenance or monitoring.
(3) No individual panel within a freestanding solar energy system installation shall exceed 16 feet in height, as measured from predevelopment lot grade at the location of the panel to its highest point.
(4) All panels, equipment and structures included with freestanding solar energy system installations shall meet the setback requirements prescribed by the zoning district in which they are located.
(5) a. Single-family or multi-family zones. All solar panels and equipment associated with freestanding solar energy systems, including but not limited to controls, energy storage devices, heat pumps, exchangers, or other materials, hardware or equipment necessary to the process by which solar radiation is converted into another form of energy shall be screened with a six-foot tall privacy fence and prevent unauthorized access.
b. All other zones. With the exception of solar panels, equipment associated with freestanding solar energy systems, including but not limited to controls, energy storage devices, heat pumps, exchangers, or other materials, hardware or equipment necessary to the process by which solar radiation is converted into another form of energy shall be designed to be screened from street view and prevent unauthorized access.
(6) The freestanding solar energy system shall not interfere with the view of, or from, sites of significant public interest such as public parks or national, state or locally designated scenic byways.
(7) All freestanding solar energy systems shall be designed and located to prevent reflective glare on any adjacent properties.
(8) Electrical lines and connections shall be installed underground to the extent permissible by the utility company.
(e) Town-owned property and assets. Nothing contained within this section shall preclude the town from operating or leasing any solar energy system on town-owned properties or assets, subject to the provisions contained within the Charter.
(Ord. No. 18-02, § 3, 1-8-2018; Ord. No. 18-11, § 3, 5-7-2018)