Appendix B : Sample Wind Energy Ordinance

• Library: The Zoning and Land Use Handbook (ABA) (2016 Ed.)

17.49.010 Definitions

SetbackThe distance from a feature to a tower.
System HeightThe height above grade of the fixed portion of the tower, excluding the wind turbine itself.
Mini Wind Energy Conversion System (Mini WECS)The system by which wind energy is converted to electricity including a wind turbine, one tower, support system, blades and associated control and conversion electronics which has a rated capacity less than ten (10) kW and a system height less than thirty-five feet (35') or more.
Small Wind Enemy Conversion System (SWECS)The system by which wind energy is converted to electricity including a wind turbine, one tower, support system, blades and associated control and conversion electronics which has a rated capacity of ten-one hundred (10-100) kW or a system height of thirty-five feet (35') or more.
Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS)The system by which wind energy is converted to electricity including wind turbines, towers, support systems, blades and associated control and conversion electronics which has a rated capacity over one hundred (100) kW.
WECS SiteAll parcels of land making up the WECS project.
WECS PerimeterThe outer boundaries of the WECS site.
WECS Project All WECS, substations and ancillary facilities.

17.49.020 Mini Wind Energy Conversion System (Mini WECS)

A. Purpose and Intent
The purpose of these regulations is to provide a uniform and comprehensive set of standards for the installation and use of Mini Wind Energy Conversion Systems designed for on-site home, farm, and small commercial use that are used primarily to reduce on-site consumption of utility power. The intent of these regulations is to protect the public health, safety and community welfare without unduly restricting the development of Mini Wind Energy Conversion Systems.
B. Permitted Use
Mini Wind Energy Conversion Systems shall be considered an accessory use.
C. Special Requirements
Mini WECS are subject to the following requirements:

(1) Tower HeightTower height shall be less than thirty-five feet (35').
(2) SetbacksAll parts of the Mini WECS structure shall be set back a distance equal to 1.1 times the system height from the side and rear property lines; the principal structure; and any electric or other utility lines. Mini WECS shall not be permitted in the front yard.
(3) NoiseNoise levels shall not exceed standards set by the Illinois Pollution Control Board for noise emissions from Class C land to Class A land regardless of the land use of the receiving land. Noise levels shall be enforced by both the State of Illinois and Sangamon County.
(4) CertificationAll Mini WECS shall conform to applicable industry standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and be approved by a small wind certification program recognized by the American Wind Energy Association.
(5) AppearanceThe Mini WECS Surface shall be a non-reflective, unobtrusive color (usually white or gray). No advertising signs or graphic designs shall be permitted on the Mini WECS. The manufacturer's identification with ratings is allowed.
(6) SafetyAll Mini WECS shall be unclimbable for fifteen feet (15') above ground level. A visible "High Voltage" warning sign shall be placed on the Mini WECS.
(7) LightingThe Mini WECS shall not be lighted except as required by the Federal Aviation Administration or other state or federal laws.
(8) Building CodesAll county, state and national construction codes shall be followed.
(9) UseThe Mini WECS shall provide electricity for on-site use only. However, the Mini WECS may be connected to the commercial grid.

D. Certificate of Compliance
Before a certificate of compliance and building permit are issued, the following shall be submitted to the Sangamon County Department of Zoning and Building Safety for review.

(1) Site Plan showing

(a) name, address and phone number of the property owner
(b) property lines

(c) all structures
(d) septic fields
(e) setback lines
(f) location of the tower, guy lines or anchor bases
(g) location of any above ground utility lines

(2) Additional information to be supplied with the site plan

(a) Mini WECS manufacturer
(b) Name-plate generating capacity
(c) Height according to manufacturer

(3) Evidence that the local electric utility has been informed of the customer's intent to install an interconnected customer-owned generator, if applicable.

17.49.030 Small Wind Energy Conversion System (SWECS)

A. Purpose and Intent
The purpose of these regulations is to provide a uniform and

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