As allowed by Government Code section 65893, the purpose of this chapter is to provide a uniform and comprehensive set of standards for the placement of accessory wind energy systems on parcels in order to encourage the generation of electricity for on site use, thereby reducing the consumption of electrical power supplied by utility companies. These regulations are intended to ensure that accessory wind energy systems are designed and located in a manner that minimizes visual and safety impacts on the surrounding community. (Ord. 254, 12-16-2014)

This chapter provides development standards for accessory wind energy systems. (Ord. 254, 12-16-2014)

   A.   Number Of Wind Energy Systems: Only one unit per parcel shall be allowed with a minimum one acre lot size.

   B.   Maximum Tower Height: The tower height limitations in table 3-25 of this section (maximum tower heights for accessory wind energy systems) shall apply to all accessory wind energy systems, provided that the application for a system includes evidence that the proposed height does not exceed the height recommended by the manufacturer or distributor of the system.

      TABLE 3-25

      MAXIMUM TOWER HEIGHTS AND MINIMUM

      PARCEL SIZE FOR ACCESSORY WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS

 

 

   C.   Setbacks: The minimum setback from any property line shall be equal to the system height.

   D.   Climbing Apparatus: Climbing apparatus shall be located at least twelve feet (12') above the ground, and the tower shall be designed to prevent climbing within the first twelve feet (12').

   E.   Lighting: Tower structure lighting shall be prohibited unless required by another code or regulation.

   F.   Noise: The noise performance standards in section 9.34.080, "Noise", of this article 3, shall apply, except during short term events (e.g., utility outages, windstorms, etc.).

   G.   Visual Effects: An accessory wind energy system shall not substantially obstruct views of adjacent property owners.

   H.   Location: An accessory wind energy system shall not be placed or constructed where otherwise prohibited by the terms of any easement.

   I.   Turbine Certification: The system's turbine shall be approved or shall have been approved by the California energy commission or certified by a national program (i.e., national electrical code (NEC), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and Underwriters Laboratories (UL)).

   J.   Engineering Analysis: The application shall include standard drawings and an engineering analysis of the system's tower, showing compliance with the California building code and certification by a professional mechanical, structural, or civil engineer licensed by the state.

   K.   Compliance With Aviation Law: The system shall comply with all applicable federal aviation administration requirements and the state aeronautics act 1 .

   L.   Compliance With Electrical Code: The application shall include a line drawing of the electrical components of the system detail to allow for a determination that the installation conforms to the national electric code.

   M.   Reduction In On Site Electricity Consumption: The system shall be used primarily to reduce on site consumption of electricity. (Ord. 254, 12-16-2014)