Wind Energy

This guide is designed to help state and local governments adopt regulations for small-scale wind energy systems, and it includes a model zoning ordinance. It discusses the benefits of implementing wind energy ordinances. It summarizes important issues to consider when crafting wind ordinances (pp.8-16), and highlights several “non-issues” –concerns that communities often include in regulations whose realized community impacts are debatable (pp.17-21).

It compares the utility of local small-scale wind energy permitting strategies – permitted by right subject to use-specific standards and discretionary use permits (p.22). It suggests recommended practices for local and state governments.

It also includes a model zoning ordinance for small-scale wind (P.30-31). It allows small wind energy systems by right as an accessory use, subject to the use-specific standards. The standards include setback, tower height, sound, turbine equipment, pre-application and application testing and compliance requirements, abandonment, signage, lighting, and access.