Wind Energy

The county’s zoning code regulates principal and accessory use wind energy conversion systems (WECS) and designates the Wind Energy Resource Zone (W-E).

It permits accessory WECS in all zones by right, subject to use-specific standards (§17.224.070). Accessory WECS may not exceed 80 ft in height or setback standards without a discretionary use permit (§17.224.100).

It allows commercial WECS with rated capacity of 100kW or lower in all districts, subject to use-specific standards (§17.224.010). It allows commercial WECS with rated capacity greater than 100kW in the Wind Energy Resource and W-1 districts, subject to use-specific and district standards (§17.224.010). It contains safety and wind access setbacks based on tower height and rotor diameter, respectively (§17.224.040.A&B). District height standards apply to commercial WECS (§17.224.040.O).

It allows accessory and commercial WECS in the W-E zone (§17.164.020.D&E). The W-E zone does not limit WECS by rater capacity, extends the maximum height, and provides streamlined setback standards (§17.164.030).