The following regulations shall apply to the construction and use of geothermal energy systems within the City:

1.   All components of ground source heat pump system including pumps, borings, and loops shall be set back at least five feet from interior and rear lot lines.

2.   All components of ground source heat pump system shall not encroach on easements.

3.   Ground source heat pump system are prohibited in surface waters, except for stormwater ponds where they are permitted.

4.   Only closed loop ground source heat pump systems utilizing Department of Public Health approved heat transfer fluids are permitted.

5.   Ground source heat pumps are considered mechanical equipment and subject to the requirements of this Code.

6.   The energy produced by a ground source heat pump system must be used on-site.

7.   A ground source heat pump system that is allowed to remain in a nonfunctional or inoperative state for a period of 12 consecutive months, and which is not brought in operation within the time specified by the City, after notification to the owner or operator of the ground source heat pump system, shall be presumed abandoned and may be declared a public nuisance subject to removal at the expense of the operator.