Wind Energy

The county’s tall structures code defines and regulates small, large, and very large wind energy systems.

It permits small wind energy systems as accessory uses, subject to dimensional standards (Appendix F §3-1).

It permits large and very large (utility-scale) wind energy systems as primary uses with a discretionary wind energy permit (Appendix F §3-1 et seq.). Standards address permit application requirements, dimensional requirements, escrow account, installation and design, shadow flicker and blade glint, decommissioning, surety for removal, security, inspection authority, liability insurance, indemnification, and real property protection.

It defines “small system wind energy facility,” “large system wind energy facility,” and “utility-scale wind energy facility” (Appendix F §2-3).