11.75 - Solar Energy Systems § 11.75
Section 11.75: Solar Energy Systems
Subdivision 1. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow for and regulate the location, placement,
design, and maintenance of active and passive Solar Energy Systems to ensure
such equipment are appropriately located and are used in a safe and effective
manner.
Subdivision 2. Definitions
A. Building Integrated Solar System: A Solar Energy System that is directly
integrated into the building by replacing typical building materials.
B. Flush Mounted Solar System: A Solar Energy System that is installed on
the roof of a building in which the solar panels are parallel with the finished
roof materials.
C. Ground Mounted Solar System: A Solar Energy System that is installed
directly onto the ground by means of brackets or poles.
D. Non-Flush Mounted Solar System: A Solar Energy System that is installed
on the roof of a building at a different pitch than the finished roof surface.
E. Solar Energy System: A device, structure, or part thereof that transfers
direct solar energy into thermal, chemical, or electrical energy.
F. Solar Garden: A community shared Solar Energy System with linked
subscribers or leased panel members.
Subdivision 3. Permitted Use Where Allowed
A. Building Mounted Solar Energy Systems shall be allowed in all zoning
districts, subject to administrative review and approval by the City Manager
or his/her designee, so long as they meet the following requirements:
1. Flush Mounted Solar Systems shall not exceed the designated height
requirement of the principal structure in all zoning districts.
2. Non-Flush Mounted Solar Systems shall extend no more than three (3)
feet directly above the surface of a roof at any point.
3. The structure upon which the Solar Energy System is mounted shall have
the structural integrity to carry the weight of the Solar Energy System.
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§ 11.75
4. A building permit shall be obtained before a mounted Solar Energy
System may be placed on a structure.
B. Building Integrated Solar Systems shall be considered a part of the structure
rather than a separate entity. Building Integrated Solar Systems need to
follow the regulations set by the building code.
C. Ground Mounted Solar Systems shall have a maximum height of ten (10)
feet.
D. Ground Mounted Solar Systems shall be set back a minimum of five (5) feet
from all property lines from the outermost perimeter of the solar panel.
E. Solar Gardens shall be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit.
Subdivision 4. Design and Performance Standards
Design and performance standards for Solar Energy Systems are hereby
established to meet the objectives of the City outlined in the Comprehensive Plan
and the purpose and other provisions of this section.
A. Compatibility with nearby properties. The visual impact of rooftop equipment
on nearby properties shall be minimized through such means as location on
the roof, flush-mounting to the roof, screening, or other integration into the
roof design. Screening shall be of durable, permanent materials that are
compatible with the primary building materials. Screening shall be done to
the extent possible without reducing the systems efficiency.
B. Compliance. Solar Energy Systems shall be designed, constructed, and
operated in compliance with any applicable federal, state, and local laws,
codes, standards, and ordinances, as well as adhere to the requirements of
local utilities if connected to utility lines.
1. Solar Energy Systems shall comply with applicable regulations as
established by chapter 1325 of the Minnesota State Building Code and the
National Electrical Code (NFPA 70).
C. Interference. Solar Energy Systems shall be designed to not cause electrical,
radio frequency, television, and other communication signal interference.
D. Installation. Solar Energy Systems shall be installed only by licensed
contractors.
E. Maintenance. Solar Energy Systems shall be kept in good repair and free
from damaged supports, mounts, framework, or other components.
Source: Ordinance No. 506, 2nd Series
Effective Date: 11-15-13
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