Hapeville City Zoning Code

(a)

Solar access. Consistent with O.C.G.A. § 44-9-20 et seq., a property owner may obtain a solar easement from another property owner for the purpose of ensuring the rooftop SES adequate exposure to sunlight.

(b)

Tree removal. The removal of trees or natural vegetation for a rooftop SES shall be avoided to the extent reasonably practicable and shall comply with the requirements of section 93-2-14.

(c)

Height. A rooftop SES shall be given an equivalent exemption, if any, to the applicable zoning district's height restrictions for roof-mounted mechanical devices or equipment, except a rooftop SES mounted on a sloped roof shall not vertically exceed the highest point of the roof to which it is attached.

(d)

Roof setback. A setback from all roof edges, as defined by most recent the International Fire Code adopted by the state at the time the rooftop solar energy system is installed, shall be provided for rooftop solar energy systems to ensure that firefighters may access the roof in a quick and safe manner and may penetrate the roof to create ventilation if necessary.

(e)

Visibility. Solar energy systems shall not be allowed on a street-facing sloped roof unless the building owner demonstrates that other locations will result in a decrease in expected energy production of at least 40 percent.

(f)

Slope. Street facing rooftop SES shall be flush with or parallel to the roofline on a sloped roof. Solar panels not visible from the right-of-way may be tilted up to 15 percent from the roofline on a sloped roof.

(g)

Equipment placement. Solar energy equipment shall be installed, when possible, inside walls and attic spaces to reduce their visual impact.

(h)

Decommissioning plan. A decommissioning plan will be required for all rooftop systems and subject to current state and local regulations.

(Ord. No. 2020-23, § 1, 9-15-2020)