05/01/2023 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING - Laserfiche WebLink

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Article 44 To see if the Town will vote to add new section 174-45.7: Solar Energy Systems to the Mashpee Zoning Bylaws as follows: Solar Energy Systems Purpose and Intent This section promotes the creation of small, medium and large-scale, ground -mounted solar energy systems by providing standards for the placement, design, constriction, operation, monitoring, modification and removal of such installations that address public safety, minimize impacts on scenic, natural and historic resources and for providing adequate financial assurance for the eventual decommissioning of such installations. General Provisions A. Small scale ground mounted solar energy systems and roof mounted solar energy systems shall be considered an accessory use allowed as -of -right in the R-3, R-5, C-1, C-2, C-3, and I -I districts. In issuing such building permit, the Building Inspector shall ensure that neighboring properties are effectively protected from any adverse impacts from glare. B. Any medium or large scale solar energy system shall be allowed in the C-I and C-2 Zoning Districts only after the issuance of a Special Permit by the Planning Board. In issuing such Special Permit, the Board shall ensure that neighboring properties are effectively protected from any significant adverse impacts from glare, that any such systems are properly fenced or otherwise secured, and that no hazardous materials are stored in quantities greater than permitted by other sections of this bylaw. Any medium or large scale solar energy system shall be allowed as -of -right in the I-1 Zoning District subject to approval the Plan Review Committee and the Design Review Committee. The Plan Review Committee and the Design Review Committee shall ensure that neighboring properties are effectively protected from any significant adverse impacts from glare, that any such systems are properly fenced or otherwise secured, and that no hazardous materials are stored in quantities greater than permitted by other sections of this bylaw. C. The constriction and operation of all ground -mounted solar energy systems shall be consistent with all applicable local, state and federal requirements, including but not limited to all applicable safety, constriction, electrical, and communications requirements. All buildings and fixtures forming part of a ground -mounted solar energy system shall be constricted in accordance with the Massachusetts State Building Code. D. The solar energy system's owner or operator shall maintain the facility in good condition. Maintenance shall include, but not be limited to, painting, structural repairs, and integrity of security measures. Site access shall be maintained to a level acceptable to the local Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director. The owner or operator shall be responsible for the cost of maintaining the ground -mounted solar energy system and any access road(s). E. Dimensional Criteria Small Scale Solar Energy Systems 1. Small scale ground mounted systems shall comply with the setback requirements typical of the zoning district and shall not exceed fifteen (15') feet in height. 2. Small scale ground mounted systems shall be exempt from the performance standards defined in Section G of this chapter. Medium and Large Scale Solar Energy Systems