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Home My WebLink About2018-09-17 ENR Packet AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION Council Chambers 1830 County Road B East Monday, September 17, 2018 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers - Maplewood City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes: a. July 16, 2018 5. New Business a. Community Food Assessment 6. Unfinished Business a. Renewable Energy Ordinance 7. Visitor Presentations 8. Commissioner Presentations 9. Staff Presentations a. Fall Clean Up Campaign — First Four Weeks in October b. Maplewood Nature Center Programs 10. Adjourn Agenda Item 4.a. MINUTES CITY OF MAPLEWOOD ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION 7:00 p.m., Monday, July 16, 2018 Council Chambers, City Hall 1830 County Road B East 1. CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Environmental and Natural Resources Commission was called to order by chair Ries at 7:03 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Keith Buttleman, Commissioner Present Mollie Miller, Commissioner Absent Candace Okeson, Commissioner Present Ann Palzer, Commissioner Present Ted Redmond, Vice Chair Absent Ryan Ries, Chairperson Present Tom Sinn, Commissioner Present Staff Present Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Staff requested the addition of 9. e. Staff Presentations -State Fair— GreenStep on a Stick! Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the agenda as amended. Seconded by Commissioner Buttleman. Ayes —All The motion passed. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Palzer moved to approve the May 21, 2018, Environmental and Natural Resources Commission meeting minutes as submitted. Seconded by Commissioner Okeson. Ayes — Chairperson Ries, Commissioner's Buttleman, Okeson & Palzer Abstention — Commissioner Sinn The motion passed. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. Review of Renewable Energy Ordinance July 16, 2018 1 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes i. Environmental Planner, Shann Finwall gave the report on the Review of Renewable Energy Ordinance and answered questions of the commission. Staff will make changes to the ordinance as discussed during the meeting, look at fees for solar systems and have a discussion with SolSmart. 7. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS None present. 8. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS None. 9. STAFF PRESENTATIONS a. Update on Urban Agriculture Ordinance Commissioner Palzer gave an update on the Urban Agriculture Ordinance that was discussed at the June 11, 2018 City Council meeting. Staff thanked the ENR Commission for their hard work on the Urban Agriculture Ordinance. The commission commended staff on the hard work put into the process of the Urban Agriculture Ordinance. b. ENR commission 2018 Action Items 1) Community Food Security Assessment— Commissioner's Okeson and Miller attended a meeting with Ramsey County along with two other representatives regarding the city getting an intern to work with the community from September through December in the nutrition assessment program. 2) Climate Action and Adaption Plan — Commissioner Redmond has volunteered to work with the Climate Action and Adaption Plan. 3) Trash and Recycling Contract—The trash and recycling contract will expire the end of 2019. The ENR commission will work with the city council and Ramsey County to create goals to come up with a RFP that they hope to release early January. C. National Night Out—Tuesday, August 7, 2018—As part of the National Night Out program there will be an energy contest called Battle of the Parks between residents in the Rolling Hills Estates and Beaver Lake Estates neighborhoods to see how many home energy squad visits they can get scheduled. The neighborhood with the most visits will win a party for their manufactured home park. More information will follow regarding how manufactured home residents in those parks can participate in this challenge. d. Maplewood Nature Center Programs i. The commission read upcoming Nature Center Programs. For more information contact the Maplewood Nature Center at (651) 249-2170. e. State Fair—GreenStep on a Stick! — GreenStep on a Stick! will be held at the Minnesota State Fair which is August 23 through September 3, 2018. If you volunteer for this opportunity you will get a free ticket to the State Fair. Staff will be sending additional information to the commission regarding this opportunity as well as contact the GreenStep cities for further information. 10. ADJOURNMENT Chair Ries adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m. July 16, 2018 2 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes Agenda Item 5.a. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date September 17, 2018 REPORT TO: Melinda Coleman, City Manager REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner Caitlin Pyrz, University of Minnesota MPH Nutrition/RD Student PRESENTER: Shann Finwall, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Community Food Assessment Action Requested: ❑ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ❑ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission will discuss aspects of a Community Food Assessment for the City of Maplewood. Recommended Action: Review and discuss how to move forward with a Community Food Assessment. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $50,000.00 Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ✓ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ❑ Operational Effectiveness ✓ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. A Community Food Assessment will ensure community inclusiveness by identifying disparities in healthy food availability and access in areas and populations. Background Maplewood 2040 Comprehensive Plan The Sustainability Chapter of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan includes a section on Local Foods. The goal of the Local Foods section is to create a healthy, walkable community by providing healthy food options and accessibility for all people, regardless of income. One action item identified to accomplish this goal is the creation of a Community Food Assessment (CFA) that identifies barriers and gaps in healthy food access and community assets. Ramsey County SHIP The Saint Paul-Ramsey County Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) increases opportunities for residents to lead healthier lives. Through community partnerships, SHIP works to create sustainable, community-driven changes that help everyone eat healthier, be active, and live tobacco free, with a focus on health equity. The City of Maplewood has the opportunity to partner with Saint Paul-Ramsey County SHIP on the creation of a CFA. Caitlin Pyrz has been hired by the Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health Department as an intern to complete the assessment. Saint Paul-Ramsey County SHIP employees will provide technical assistance and Caitlin will complete her Master Thesis for the University of Minnesota, Master of Public Health program. Community Food Assessment What is it? A CFA is a process involving data collection and analysis in collaboration with key stakeholders and community partners in local and heathy food access. The project aims to identify disparities in healthy food availability and accessibility in different areas or among different communities and populations. Availability refers to the physical location and existence of healthy food in certain areas or in a store specifically, whereas accessibility refers to a broader picture of cost, quality, or other socioeconomic barriers that may exist for some people in accessing healthy foods. What does it identify? The assessment identifies strengths and weaknesses of the current food environment as well as gaps and disparities in accessing affordable and nutritious foods. A major aspect of a healthy community is access to healthy food, and there are a wide range of factors and barriers that might exist in creating food insecurity. The CFA will highlight potential for providing equitable healthy food access for all members of the community. What does it include? • Background —what is known, city demographics, existing data and related policies • Informational interviews conducted with key stakeholders • Data analysis • Key findings • Key recommendations • Discussion/Conclusion What indicators are used to determine accessibility? We will look at indicators such as distance traveled to the nearest grocery store, poverty status of different areas, access to food service assistance programs, quality of food available in different areas, and affordability of healthier food items, among other indicators. The objective is to identify underserved areas and populations that do not have access or have low access to healthier foods near their homes. There may be existing resources that are underutilized, or opportunities to create a healthier food environment through new efforts. We hope to learn more about the food environment of Maplewood. What questions should we consider? This project is guided by the question of how accessible and available healthy food is for residents of the City of Maplewood. In addressing this question, we will identify existing assets for healthy food access and current disparities that can be addressed to improve the food environment of the city. The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission should review and discuss the following additional questions: 1. Why are we conducting a CFA? What do we hope to learn? 2. What are the primary objectives? 3. What healthy food access indicators should we look at? 4. How will the assessment be used? 5. How do we define healthy food? 6. Should the focus be on only local healthy food access or healthy food access in general? What is the timeline? The September 17 Environmental and Natural Resources Commission meeting will serve as the kick off to the Maplewood CFA. Carissa Glatt, St. Paul-Ramsey County SHIP Grant Coordinator and Caitlin Pyrz will give a presentation on community food assessments and discuss the details with the Commission. The research, interviews, and CFA document are scheduled to be complete by the end of January 2019. Attachments None Agenda Item 6.a. ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date September 17, 2018 REPORT TO: Melinda Coleman, City Manager REPORT FROM: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner PRESENTOR: Shann Finwall, AICP, Environmental Planner AGENDA ITEM: Review of Renewable Energy Ordinance Action Requested: ❑ Motion ✓ Discussion ❑ Public Hearing Form of Action: ❑ Resolution ✓ Ordinance ❑ Contract/Agreement ❑ Proclamation Policy Issue: The renewable energy ordinance was adopted in October 2011. The ordinance assists the City in the promotion of renewable energy sources while addressing regulations for wind, solar, and geothermal. The Environmental and Natural Resources Commission is reviewing the ordinance to identify restrictions that prohibit renewable energy development. Recommended Motion: Recommend approval of the amendments to the renewable energy ordinance that will remove barriers and promote solar, wind, and geothermal energy. The City Council will review the proposed amendments later this year in coordination with a discussion around the City's solar system permit fees. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact? ✓ No ❑ Yes, the true or estimated cost is n/a Financing source(s): ❑ Adopted Budget ❑ Budget Modification ❑ New Revenue Source ❑ Use of Reserves ❑ Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ❑ Financial Sustainability ❑ Integrated Communication ❑ Targeted Redevelopment ✓ Operational Effectiveness ✓ Community Inclusiveness ❑ Infrastructure & Asset Mgmt. Renewable energy is a valuable resource. Removing barriers to this resource will ensure community inclusiveness. It will allow all residents and businesses to capture the benefits of appropriately designed and sited renewable energy sources. Operational effectiveness will be achieved with the removal of barriers and promotion of renewable energy. It will assist the City in meeting its Comprehensive Plan energy goals. One of the goals states that the City will encourage and support renewable energy by obtaining a minimum of 50 percent of all electric energy from renewable sources by 2040. Background SolSmart Designation SolSmart is a national designation program designed to recognize communities that have taken steps to address local barriers to solar energy. It is led by the International City/County Management Association and The Solar Foundation, along with a team of partners with expertise in solar energy and local governments. SolSmart uses objective criteria to designate communities that have successfully met the goals. Since the program launched in 2016 more than 200 local governments nationwide have achieved SolSmart designation. There are three levels of SolSmart designation for communities including Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The requirements for each level are outlined on the attached SolSmart application. Maplewood holds the Silver SolSmart designation for completing the following criteria: • Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers. • Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development • Allowed solar by-right accessory use in all zones (so solar installations don't require special permits or hearings) • Cross-trained both inspection and permitting staff on solar PV To achieve the Gold SolSmart designation the City must provide a streamlined permitting pathway for small solar PV systems with turn-around time of no more than three days and earn at 200 points overall from actions taken in any combination of categories. Points are earned for implementing additional solar actions such as conducting a review of solar permit fees for residential and commercial solar. These are items the City will continue to work on in order to achieve the Gold certification. Renewable Energy Ordinance Amendments Solar During the July 16, 2018, ENR Commission meeting, the Commission reviewed the attached SolSmart Zoning Review document. The document outlines recommendations from the energy experts at SolSmart on how the renewable energy ordinance can be amended to remove possible obstacles and gaps to solar energy as follows: • Use restricted to on-site: The ordinance restricts solar energy systems to on-site use, precluding off-site, shared, or community solar facilities. • No exemptions provided: No exemptions or allowances are provided for height, setback, or lot coverage for solar energy systems. • Visibility restrictions and screening requirements: The wording "solar energy systems shall be designed to blend into the architecture of the building or be screened from routine view from public right-of-ways other than alleys" could be interpreted to prevent a rooftop system that is not flush mounted. The ENR Commission recommended that staff make the changes. The attached renewable energy ordinance outlines the proposed amendments. 2 Wind/Geothermal The renewable energy ordinance also includes regulations on wind and geothermal. The ENR Commission reviewed these sections of the ordinance and suggested two changes that would remove barriers to residential wind energy as follows: • Neighborhood consent: Ground mounted small wind energy systems require written consent of 100 percent of the owners or occupants that are located adjacent the premises. The Commission recommended this be changed to 60 percent of the owners or occupants to be consistent with the newly adopted poultry ordinance. • No exemptions provided: No exemptions or allowances are provided for height or setback for small wind energy systems. The attached renewable energy ordinance outlines the proposed amendments. Solar Permit Fees A building and electrical permit are required for solar system permits. The building permit fee is based on the value of the project. The larger the project cost the more the permit fee. The electrical permit fee for solar systems is based on KWH or watts. The cost increases with increased KWH or watts. Jason Brash, Building Official, conducted a review of residential solar system permit fees in eight cities, including Maplewood. The attached review compares the cost of permit fees for a $12,000 solar system. One city charges a flat fee of$200 and the other cities have fees ranging from $342.75 to $547.61, with Maplewood's fee in the middle at $512.00 Yearly the City Council reviews and adopts the City's fee schedule. During the 2018 fee schedule review later this fall, the City Council will consider a recommendation to reduce the residential solar permit fee to a flat fee of$200. This will encourage residential solar systems by reducing the overall cost. Resources Maplewood Draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan — Sustainability Chapter • www.maplewoodmn.gov/2040 - Sustainability Chapter Regional Indicators— Energy Planning • https://www.regionalindicatorsmn.com/energy-planning SolSmart • https://www.solsmart.org/ American Planning Association — Planning for Wind • https://planning-org-uploaded-media.s3.amazonaws.com/publication/online/PAS-Report- 566.pdf Minnesota Department of Commerce — Energy • Solar: https://mn.gov/commerce/industries/energy/solar/ • Wind: https://mn.gov/commerce/industries/energy/wind/ 3 US Department of Energy • Solar: https://www.energy.aov/science-innovation/energv-sources/renewable-energv/solar • Wind Energy: https://www.energy.gov/science-innovation/energy-sources/renewable- energv/wind • Geothermal Energy: https://www.energy.aov/science-innovation/energv-sources/renewable- energv/geothermal Attachments 1. SolSmart Application 2. SolSmart Zoning Review 3. Renewable Energy Ordinance 4. Residential Solar Permit Fee Review 4 Attachment 1 SOLSMART APPLICATION SOLSMART IJ TIiIJIIILL"O ST;IrIC.i;,i LOCALLY POWERED. There are three levels of SolSmart designation for communities — below are the requirements for each: SILVER: BRONZE: • Fulfill the requirements to become a SolSmart • Provide a Solar Statement outlining your community's Bronze Community. solar goals, and commit to tracking key metrics such . Complete the two Silver-required actions in the as number and capacity of installed Photovoltaic Planning, Zoning, and Development (PV)systems. Regulations and Inspection categories. • Fulfill required actions in both of the • Earn 100 points overall from actions taken in Foundational Categories: any combination of categories. • Permitting • Planning, Zoning, and Development Regulations GOLD: • Earn at least 20 points in each of the two • Fulfill the requirements to become a SolSmart Foundational Categories (above). Silver Community. • Earn a total of 20 points from actions across the six • Complete the Gold-required action in Permitting. Special Focus Categories: Inspection; Construction • Earn 200 points overall from actions taken in any Codes; Solar Rights; Utility Engagement; Community combination of categories. Engagement; and Market Development and Finance. Note:Actions in any of the Special Focus Categories count toward the 20-point target. SPECIAL AWARDS: • Note: Early Adopter communities will receive 10 extra • Communities that earn 60%of the points in a given points applied toward a category of their choice. category are eligible for special recognition. Community Data Community applying: State: Community website: Population: Other solar awards/recognition earned by community: kW of installed solar or number of installations: Contact Information Local contact: Contact title: Organization: Department: Contact email: Contact phone: ❑ I am authorized to apply for and seek recognition for my community. Q I understand that community data submitted through this application will be shared online. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 1 STEP 1 : SOLAR STATEMENT PR-1: Solar Statement— Required for Designation Our Solar Statement: (Cut and paste your Solar Statement in the box below) Communities interested in pursuing SolSmart designation must indicate their commitment to supporting solar development in their community. These letters should include: •A commitment to participate in the SolSmart designation process •A statement of solar goals, areas of focus or community priorities (e.g. Encouraging solar PV development on vacant lots or supporting non-profit led initiatives) •Past achievements or programs related to solar PV and/or renewable energy • Commitment to tracking metrics related to solar PV and/or provide benchmark of available solar metrics (i.e. number of installed municipal systems or growth in residential installations) •A commitment of staff time and resources to improve the local environment for solar PV These letters do not need to be more than a page in length. Examples are included below from communities that participated in SolSmart's Early Adopter program. The SolSmart team can assist communities in prioritizing and establishing goals. Resources and Examples:Burlington, Vermont,and Brownsville, Texas Documentation: (Please share a link to a public webpage where your Solar Statement is displayed or attach it as a document.) SolSmart Application Version 2.0 12 STEP 2: FOUNDATIONAL CATEGORIES: PERMITTING AND PLANNING, ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT To earn SolSmart Bronze designation, communities must: •Complete the required actions in both Foundational Categories—i.e.,Permitting and Planning,Zoning and Development Regulations. • Earn at least 20 points in each of the Foundational Categories. Permitting Action Points We've. Documentation . P-1: Create and make available an online checklist Share link: detailing the steps of your community's solar PV Req'd ❑ permitting process (Required). P-2: Provide a streamlined permitting pathway for small 20 Share link: solar PV systems with turn-around time of no more than Req'd ❑ 3 days (Required for Gold). for Gold P-3: Distinguish between systems qualifying for 5 ❑ Share link: streamlined or standard review. P-4: Require no more than one application form for a 5 ❑ Share link: residential rooftop solar PV project. P-5a: Conduct a review of solar permit fees for residential and 5 ❑ Share link: commercial solar PV. Earn additional points: P-5b: Revise or Share link: demonstrate that permit fees reflect national best 5 ❑ practices (e.g. $400 or less for residential, and based on cost-recovery for commercial). P-6: Review permitting process for efficiency improvements Share link: and reduce processing time to 10 days or fewer. 10 El P-7:Adopt a standard solar PV permit form aligned with best 10 ❑ Share link: practices(e.g. Solar ABCs). P-8: Train permitting staff on best practices for permitting 10 ElShare link: solar PV and/or solar and storage systems. Training must have occurred within the past five years. P-9: Train fire and safety staff on solar PV. Training must have 10 ❑ Share link: occurred within the past five years. P-10: Develop a regular communication schedule to solicit Share link: recommendations from the solar installer community regarding 10 ❑ procedural changes. P-11: Offer an online process for permitting submission and 20 13Share link: approval. P-12: Make permit data open and accessible to other 20 ❑ Share link: departments. Total Points: Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 13 Planning, Zoning and Development Regulations Action Points We've. Documentation . PZD-1a: Review zoning requirements and identify Share link: restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development. Compile findings in a memo. (Required). Req'd ❑ Examples of restrictions to look for include, but are not limited to, height restrictions, set-back requirements, requiring a conditional use permit, and aesthetic requirements. Earn additional points: PZD-1 b:Formally present Share link: PZD-1 a memo findings to planning commission,or 5 ❑ relevant zoning body. Earn additional points: PZD-1c:Draft proposed language Share link: for changes to zoning code based on PZD-1a memo. Involve 5 ❑ planners and/or local zoning experts in the creation of the draft language. PZD-2: Allow accessory use solar PV by right in all 20 Share link: major zones.(Required for Silver and Gold). Req'd ❑ forSilver and Gold PZD-3a: Review existing planning documents and Share link: identify new opportunities (not already included)to 5 ❑ integrate solar PV into planning goals. Earn additional points: PZD-3b: In consultation with Share link: planners and other staff, provide draft language on solar PV, which will be proposed for inclusion in existing or future plans. 5 ❑ Provide a timeline for when the language will be considered for incorporation into plan. PZD-4: Provide clear guidance for solar PV in 10 Share link: historic and special-use districts. ❑ PZD-5: Integrate solar PV and/or shared solar into relevant Share link: local plans(e.g. energy plan, climate plan, comprehensive 10 ❑ plan), including quantifiable metrics or specific actions. PZD-6: Include considerations for active and passive Share link: solar in development regulations (e.g. providing guidance for orientation of structures in subdivision 10 ❑ regulations). PZD-7: Provide development incentives for solar PV within the Share link: subdivision or zoning process, or as part of other development 20 ❑ incentives (e.g.,density or height bonuses and other incentives for buildings that plan to install solar PV). PZD-8: Encourage or incentivize solar PV development on Share link: parking lots, vacant lots, landfills, buffer lands around uses with nuisances (e.g. refineries,wastewater plants), 20 ❑ brownfields or formerly contaminated lands, airport safety zones (with FAA approval), and non-building structures. PZD-9: Train planning staff on best practices in planning and Share link: zoning for solar PV. Training must have occurred within the 10 ❑ past five years. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 14 Planning, Zoning and Development Regulations Cont. Action Points We've. Documentation . PZD-10: Ensure that the zoning ordinance... 1�>PZD-10a ...Clarifies regulations for small ground-mounted 5 El Share link: solar PV. 1�>PZD-10b ...Establishes a clear regulatory pathway for primary use solar PV(for example through a special use permit 5 Share link: or through inclusion among allowed conditional uses). 1�>PZD-10c ...Exempts rooftop solar PV from certain restrictions on accessory uses(e.g. height limits, rooftop 5 Share link: equipment screening requirements, or other restrictions). 1�>PZD-10d ...Exempts small ground-mounted solar PV from Share link: certain restrictions on accessory uses(e.g.setbacks, coverage 5 ❑ or impervious surface calculations,or other restrictions). PZD-11: Create and provide online a handout for developers Share link: that provides an overview of what development regulations allow under which conditions (e.g. types and sizes of solar PV 5 arrays permitted, the processes required, and other relevant 13 information, such as design standards and policy outside of the zoning language). Total Points: Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 15 STEP 3: SPECIAL FOCUS CATEGORIES To earn SolSmart Bronze designation, communities must: • Earn 20 points (total) from actions taken across the 6 Special Focus Categories: Inspection; Construction Codes; Solar Rights; Utility Engagement; Community Engagement; or Market Development and Finance. Any action in any Special Focus Category counts toward the goal of earning 20 points. Special Focus- Inspection Action Points We've. Documentation . I-1: Provide cross-training of inspection and 20 Share link: permitting staff on solar PV via in-person or online Req'd ❑ resources. Training must have occurred within the forSilver past five years. (Required for Silver and Gold). and Gold 1-2: Require no more than two inspections for accessory-use 10 ElShare link: solar PV. 1-3: Offer inspection appointment times in 10 ElShare link: lieu of appointment windows. 1-4: Make inspection requirements for solar PV available online. 10 ElShare link: 1-5: Have a fixed time frame between inspection requests Share link: and scheduling of inspections of no more than 10 days. 10 El 1-6: Provide an online process for scheduling and 20 ElShare link: responding to inspection requests. Total Points:Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. Special Focus- Construction Codes Action Points We've. Documentation . CC-1 a: Develop and provide Solar Ready Construction Share link: Guidelines for developers to enable lower cost installation of 10 ❑ future solar PV installations on buildings within the permitting office and online. Earn additional points: CC-1 b: Include guidance for 10 ❑ Share link: solar PV on parking lots and other types of non- traditional structures. CC-2: Require or incentivize new construction to be solar Share link: ready to complete future installations at lower cost. 10 ❑ CC-3: Offer design guidelines for solar PV aligned with Share link: National Electrical Code and fire code. 20 El CC-4:Adopt the most recent codes from the Share link: International Code Council.Appendix U from the 20 El 2015 IRC regarding solar ready construction must be adopted to receive credit. Total Points:Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 16 Special Focus- Solar Rights Action Points We've. Documentation . SR-1: Conduct review of state policies related to protecting Share link: rights of property owners to install solar and solar system 5 ❑ owners' right to sunlight on their property. Make this information available to residents. SR-2: Provide consumer protection resources on solar PV which 5 ❑ Share link: help consumers make informed solar PV purchasing decisions. SR-3: Develop local process to enable solar rights through 10 Share link: a solar access ordinance. ❑ SR-4: Offer procedure for recording solar 10 ElShare link: easements for property owners. SR-5a: Engage homeowners and neighborhood Share link: associations and discourage unnecessarily restrictive 10 ❑ requirements for solar PV through meetings with leadership. Earn additional points: SR-5b: Encourage 5 ElShare link: subdivisions to consider shared solar allowances. Earn additional points: SR-5c:Work with Share link: homeowners associations to develop 5 ❑ appropriate guideline documents for solar PV. Total Points:Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. Special Focus- Utility Engagement Action Points We've. Documentation . U-1: Review best practices for integrating interconnection Share link: with electrical inspections and share best practices with 5 El staff. U-2: Discuss community or shared solar PV programs with the Share link: local utility. 10 ❑ U-3a: Engage and communicate with the utility on community Share link: goals for solar PV, net metering, and interconnection 10 El processes. Earn additional points: U-3b: Coordinate with Share link: regional organizations or other local 5 ❑ governments to engage utilities. U-4: Coordinate utility and city inspections for Share link: solar PV, reducing the total number of inspections 20 El needed. U-5: Launch and support a utility-provided community solar 20 ElShare link: program. Total Points:Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 17 Special Focus- Community Engagement Action Points We've. Documentation . CE-1: Convene an active energy task force or solar working 10 ElShare link: group that meets at least three times per year. CE-2:Create a solar landing page on local government's website Share link: with information on the community's solar goals and local 10 ❑ resources for solar development. CE-3: Encourage solar PV on non-profit or community Share link: facilities through fee waivers, technical assistance, or other 10 El support. CE-4a: Support or host a community-group purchase Share link: program(e.g.,Solarize). 20 ❑ Earn additional points: CE-4b: Design program or Share link: create financing support options to encourage low-to- 10 ❑ moderate income participation in community solar initiatives. CE-5a: Host a solar workshop open to the general public Share link: and/or local government staff explaining solar PV 5 El opportunities and policies. CE-5b: Create and distribute educational materials at Share link: relevant community events and through local government 5 El channels. CE-5c: Establish partnerships with local non-profits or Share link: organizations on solar PV with multi-year goal or planned 5 El initiatives. CE-5d: Publicly encourage community solar projects or solar Share link: PV projects on community facilities. 5 El CE-5e: Engage the community in robust, ongoing discussion Share link: around climate,energy, or sustainability plans. 5 13 CE-6: Create and publish job training and placement Share link: opportunities for solar in coordination with local community 20 ❑ colleges. CE-7: Conduct feasibility analysis for solar PV on Share link: brownfields, landfills, formerly contaminated lands 10 ❑ and/or other under-utilized properties. CE-8: Install or lease land for solar PV development on Share link: brownfields, landfills, formerly contaminated lands and/or 20 ❑ other under-utilized properties. CE-9: Engage with regional organizations on advancing solar Share link: PV policies in the region including, but not limited to, unified 20 ❑ permitting processes and group procurement opportunities. CE-10: Demonstrate activity in state-level conversations Share link: regarding solar PV. 20 ❑ CE-11: Create and/or share an interactive solar map for your Share link: community. 20 ❑ Total Points: Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 18 Special Focus- Market Development and Finance Action Points We've. Documentation . MDF-1: Provide resources on active solar installers Share link: and/or local incentives for solar PV. 5 El MDF-2: Make solar PV metrics publicly available. 5 171Share link: MDF-3: Provide information to consumers about different Share link: solar PV financing options, including commercial options, 5 ❑ such as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing. MDF-4: Conduct feasibility analysis for solar PV Share link: installations on public facilities. 10 13 MDF-5: Install solar PV on local facilities. 20 171Share link: MDF-6a: If applicable, provide PACE financing in your 10 ElShare link: community. Earn additional points: MDF-6b: Demonstrate that Share link: PACE financing has been used to finance solar PV in your 10 ❑ community. MDF-7: Provide local incentives (i.e. permit fee waivers or Share link: rebates)or locally-enabled finance (e.g., a revolving loan fund) 20 ❑ for solar PV. MDF-8: Engage local banks, credit unions, foundations Share link: and/or community funds about lending for solar PV projects 20 ❑ through in-person meetings, discussions, and/or workshops. MDF-9: Demonstrate that the community's installed per Share link: capita capacity is above top 20%of states (>99 20 ❑ watts/person). MDF-10: Integrate solar PV with other distributed or emerging Share link: technologies such as storage, combined heat and power 20 ❑ systems or electric vehicles in at least one installed or proposed project. MDF-11: Develop feasibility analysis or planning for resilient Share link: solar technologies for critical facilities and emergency planning 20 ❑ such as solar and storage. Total Points: Add up the total number of points you believe you have achieved in this category. SolSmart Application Version 2.0 19 INNOVATIVE ACTIONS The actions identified in the categories above represent many of the most common and impactful efforts communities are taking to reduce soft costs and make going solar easier and more affordable for residents. However, we know that communities across the country are developing innovative ways to help reduce soft costs. If your community has taken action to reduce soft costs that wasn't captured in the above application, please share it with us in the table below. Innovative actions will be reviewed by a team of solar experts and each action may be worth up to 20 points. Innovative Actions Category Action(s) Documentation Permitting Share link: Planning,Zoning Share link: and Development Regulations Inspection Share link: Construction Codes Share link: Solar Rights Share link: Utility Engagement Share link: Community Share link: Engagement Market Development Share link: and Finance SolSmart Application Version 2.0 110 Step Designation Checklist Completed SOLARSTEP 1: Solar Statement Statement Submitted ❑ STEP 2: FOUNDATIONAL CATE Permitting Required Action(s) Points: ❑ 20+ required for Bronze Planning,Zoning, &Development Required Action(s) Points: ElRegulations 20+ required for Bronze FOCUSSTEP 3: SPECIAL • ' POINTS Inspection Points: ❑ Construction Codes Points: ❑ Solar Rights Points: ❑ Utility Engagement Points: ❑ Community Engagement Points: ❑ Market Development and Finance Points: ❑ Special Focus Points 0 Must be 20 or greater for Bronze TOTAL POINTS including foundational 0 Must be at least 100 for Silver and 200 for Gold SolSmart Application Version 2.0 111 Attachment 2 ZONING REVIEW - Maplewood, MNpLSMART - LD!CALLY POWERED. PZD-1: Review zoning requirements and remove restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit PV development. Compile findings in a memo, and commit to reducing barriers to PV during next zoning review. This SolSmart prerequisite requires communities to (a) conduct a review of zoning requirements, (b) identify restrictions that prohibit PV development, and (c) commit to addressing these barriers during the next community zoning review. To assist your community, the national solar experts at SolSmart have conducted an initial review of your community's code to assess possible obstacles (i.e. height restrictions, set-back requirements, etc.) and gaps. Below, please find the outcome of their review. By reading the narrative, reviewing the example code language provided, and signing the statement at the bottom of the page, your community will satisfy PZD-1 and be one step closer to achieving SolSmart designation. Potential barriers in current code language Section(s) Element Reviewer Comments Example(s) from other Priority codes level Section 1. Use The Ordinance restricts solar energy Best practice is generally to High Scope, restricted to systems to on-site use, precluding off- regulate the impact rather than Section on-site site, shared or community solar the use of solar energy systems 4.d.3 facilities, and all solar energy as they are not synonymous. Commercial installations directly tied to the grid. See p. 19 of Planning and Commercial and industrial facilities in Zoning for Solar in North Maplewood do not have a mechanism Carolina. to lease rooftop space or a portion of their land to a(utility or other off-taker) An example of a zoning code for a grid-tied, rather than net metered, that regulates solar installations installation. It also does not allow for based on acreage impact rather primary use solar installations. The than usage: Fort Collins, CO. ordinance should be adjusted to allow residents and businesses to install solar Resources for allowing solar energy systems, even where those installations as a primary use systems are not net metered, and to include page 38 of the APA's allow for primary use or community Integrating Solar Energy into solar installations where subscribers Local Development Regulations who may be renters, or not able to briefing paper. install solar on their roof due to shading, receive credit for the generation and the cost benefits of economies of scale from larger, ground-mounted installations. Section 4.c. No No exemptions or allowances are Recommendations include Medium Placement exemptions provided for height, setback, or lot exempting roof-top solar and Design provided coverage for solar energy systems. equipment entirely or setting an exemption limit of 5 to 10 feet above the maximum building height for the district. Setbacks should be applied similar to those required for a fence rather than setbacks applicable to a primary building. See page 7 and 8 of the Model Zoning for the Regulation of Solar Energy Systems from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. See page 9 of the Massachusetts model document for lot coverage and area considerations. Section Visibility The wording: "SES shall be For a discussion of screening High 4.c.4. restrictions designed to blend into the requirements see page 19 of Visibility and architecture of the building or be the DVRPC Renewable screening screened from routine view from Energy Ordinance Framework requirement public right-of-ways other than —Solar PV alleys" could be interpreted to http://www.dvrpc.org/EnergvClimate/ModelOrdinance/Solar/ prevent a rooftop SES that is not pdf/2016 DVRPC Solar RE flush mounted to a roof, including a OF Reformatted Final.pdf flat roof. All ground mounted For an example, see the City systems are required to be of Fort Collins, CO, which screened, adding cost and acknowledges that "solar potentially shading issues for collectors are a visible installations. symbol of our commitment to sustainability" and only requires screening of solar energy facilities a half-acre and larger in size. https://www.municode.com/li brary/co/fort collins/codes/la nd use Additional notes • Section 4.a. Definitions are inclusive and address both solar energy collection and storage for conversion into electric and heating applications. • Section 4.b. Solar Energy Systems are allowed as an accessory use in all zoning districts, providing partial compliance with SolSmart criteria PZD-2. • Section 4.d.4. Prevents HOAs from restricting solar systems to a greater extent than the Ordinance. • Section 4.d.5. Allows for solar access to be protected in all new subdivisions and in existing systems i accordance with Minnesota Statutes. Shann Finwall as Environmental Planner of Maplewood MN [Name] [Title] [Community] [State] have read the review above and commit to discussing these barriers at the next community zoning review, tentatively scheduled for 2017/2018, with the goal of removing them from the code. Date 11-29-16 Signature_ Attachment 3 ORDINANCE NO. An Ordinance Regulating Renewable Energy Systems (Wind, Solar, Geothermal) The Maplewood City Council approves changes to Chapter 18 (Environment), Article V (Environment and Natural Resources), Division 5 (Renewable Energy) as follows: Section 1. Scope. This ordinance applies to the regulations of ep-site renewable energy systems within the City of Maplewood, Ramsey County, MN. The ordinance focuses on wind turbines, solar systems, and geothermal ground-source heat pumps_;.AV"iGh arta 19^ated 49P t#t-9 srte f49-F V.4hiGh the geReF tie IR of eReFgy Will be i icon V.4i4h ovnocc eReFg y G106#019-1-449d- ipte the eleGtFiGal grid Section 2. Purpose and Intent. It is the goal of the city to provide a sustainable quality of life for the city's residents, making careful and effective use of available natural resources to maintain and enhance this quality of life. Cities are enabled to regulate land use under Minnesota Statutes 394 and 462 for the purpose of"promoting the health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the community." As part of this regulatory power, Maplewood believes it is in the public interest to encourage renewable energy systems that have a positive impact in energy conservation, with limited adverse impact on the community. While Maplewood strongly encourages increased energy conservation and improved energy efficiency, the city also finds that increased use of appropriate renewable energy systems will be an important part of improving urban sustainability. The renewable energy regulations are intended to supplement existing zoning ordinances and land use practices, and ensure these systems are appropriately designed, sited and installed. These regulations are in place to balance the need to improve energy sustainability through increased use of renewable energy systems with concerns for preservation of public health, welfare, and safety, as well as environmental quality, visual and aesthetic values, and existing neighborhood social and ecological stability. With these regulations, Maplewood is concerned that renewable energy systems, particularly wind energy systems, be designed to minimize the negative impacts on bird and bat species which are vulnerable to mortality from these energy gathering machines. Section 3. Wind Energy Sources and Systems a. Definitions, Wind Energy Sources and Systems The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this Section, shall have the meaning provided herein, except where the context clearly indicates otherwise: Feeder Line. Any power line that carries electrical power from one or more wind turbines or individual transformers associated with an individual wind turbine to the point of interconnection with the electric power grid. In the case of interconnection with the 1 high voltage transmission systems the point of interconnection shall be the substation serving the WECS. Ground mounted WECS. Freestanding WECS mounted to the ground with footings or other apparatus. Large WECS. A WECS of equal to or greater than 100 kW in total nameplate generating capacity. The eReFg i FR-11-St ho 1_1649G] nn_ci+o �eii+h ovnocc onornY r]ic+rihi i+or] in+n the eleGtFi` al god Large WECS are limited to one-hundred twenty five (125) feet in height. Property Line. The boundary line of the area over which the entity applying for WECS permit has legal control for the purposes of installation of a WECS. This control may be attained through fee title ownership, easement, or other appropriate contractual relationship between the project developer and landowner. Roof Mounted WECS. A WECS utilizing a turbine mounted to the roof of a structure. Significant Tree. Any tree defined as a Significant Tree in the city's tree preservation ordinance. Small WECS. A WECS of less than 100kW in total nameplate generating capacity. The Small WECS are limited to sixty (60) feet in height. Tower. Vertical structures that support the electrical generator, rotor, and blades, or the meteorological equipment. Tower Height. The total height of the WECS, including tower, rotor, and blade to its highest point of travel. Turbine Cut-In Speed. The lowest wind speed at which turbines generate power to the utility system. Wind Energy. Kinetic energy present in wind motion that can be converted into electrical energy. WECS. A Wind Energy Conversion System which is an electrical generating facility comprised of one or more wind turbines and accessory facilities, including but not limited to, power lines, transformers, substations and metrological towers that operate by converting the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy. The energy ho 6or] nn_ 5; Q ovnocc eReFg i r]ic+rihi 44-9d in+n +ho olon+riGal nrirl Wind Energy System. An electrical generating facility that consists of a wind turbine associated controls and may include a tower. Wind Turbine. A wind turbine is any piece of electrical generating equipment that converts the kinetic energy of blowing wind into electrical energy through the use of airfoils or similar devices to capture the wind. 2 b. WECS Districts 1. Large WECS Districts. (a) Ground and Roof Mounted Large WECS shall be allowed with approval of a conditional use permit as outlined in section d (conditional use permit procedure) in the following zoning districts and land use designations: (1) In all properties located in commercial zoning districts (Heavy Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, Business Commercial, Business Commercial Modified, Limited Business Commercial, Commercial Office, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center). (2) In all properties located in multiple dwelling residential zoning districts (Multiple Dwelling Residential and Multiple Dwelling Residential Townhouse) for purposes of shared WECS energy production among the residential dwelling units. (3) In all properties approved as a planned unit development for purposes of shared WECS energy production among the businesses/organizations, residential dwelling units, or adjoining businesses/organizations/residential dwelling units. (4) In all properties guided as Government or Institutional in the city's Land Use Designations of the Comprehensive Plan. Ground and Roof Mounted Large WECS shall be prohibited in all properties guided as park or open space in the city's Land Use Designations of the Comprehensive Plan. 2. Small WECS Districts. (a) Roof Mounted Small WECS shall be deemed permissible in all zoning districts. (b) Ground Mounted Small WECS shall be deemed an accessory structure, permissible in the following zoning districts and land use designations: (1) In all properties located in commercial zoning districts (Heavy Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, Business Commercial, Business Commercial Modified, Limited Business Commercial, Commercial Office, Neighborhood Commercial, Shopping Center). (2) In all properties located in multiple dwelling residential zoning districts (Multiple Dwelling Residential and Multiple Dwelling Residential Townhouse) for purposes of shared WECS energy production among the residential dwelling units. (3) In all properties approved as a planned unit development for purposes of shared WECS energy production among the businesses/organizations, residential dwelling units, or adjoining businesses/organizations/residential dwelling units. 3 (4) In all properties guided as Government or Institutional in the city's Land Use Designations of the Comprehensive Plan. (5) In all properties guided as park in the city's Land Use Designations of the Comprehensive Plan. (c) Ground Mounted Small WECS shall be deemed an accessory structure, permissible in double or single dwelling residential zoning districts if the following neighborhood consent requirements are met: Written consent of sixty 60 percent of the owners or occupants of privately or publicly owned real estate that are located adjacent (i.e., sharing property lines) on the outer boundaries of the premises for which the permit is being requested, or in the alternative, proof that the applicant's property lines are one-hundred fifty (150) feet or more from any house. Where an adjacent property consists of a multiple dwelling or multi-tenant property, the applicant need obtain only the written consent of the owner or manager, or other person in charge of the building. Such written consent shall be required on the initial application and as often thereafter as the officer deems necessary. C. Placement and Design 1. Ground Mounted WECS. (a) Height (1) Large WECS shall have a total height, including tower and blade to its highest point of travel, of no more than one-hundred twenty- five (125) feet. (2) Small WECS shall have a total height, including tower and blade to its highest point of travel, of no more than sixty (60) feet. (b) Placement (1) Large WECS shall be located as follows: a) Shall not be located between a principal structure and a public street, unless the city determines that such a location would lessen the visibility of the Large WECS or would lessen the negative impacts of such a WECS on nearby properties. b) Have a minimum setback distance from the base of the monopole of one (1) times the height from any property line, electric substation, transmission line, or other WECS. 4 Ir, a drli r setba Gk distaRGe must be ORGFeased by rrr-aacrrt�rr �ccm�crc-arzcarrcc�rruzrnc-irTcr�acc�p tWent y five (25) foot from an i pFepert y that is zenerl er Y11aRRed fer resideRtial 47 Have a minimum sethanL distance from the hase of the menePele of ene enrl nne_half(1_1 2) times the height from aFea. 4d} Have a minimum setback distance from the base of the monopole of six hundred (600) feet from any property guided as park or open space in the city's Land Use Designations of the Comprehensive Plan. e) Maintain setbacks to bluffs as outlined in Section 18-462 (e) (Slopes). u.a„e a minimi im sethanL distenne from the base of the rn GRE)pele of erre fei Orth (1,4) mile OF erre the---saA rthreae GItweRty (1- 320) feet aRp hh'ff (2) Small WECS shall be located a) Shall not be located between a principal structure and a public street, unless the city determines that such a location would lessen the visibility of the Small WECS or would lessen the negative impacts of such a WECS on nearby properties. b) Have a minimum setback distance from the base of the monopole of one (1) times the height from any property line, public right-of-way, electric substation, transmission line, or other WECS. (c) Number (1) Large WECS. One (1) large WECS shall be allowed on a single lot of one (1) to five (5) acre(s). All other larger parcels will be limited to one (1) large WECS per five (5) acres of land area. (2) Small WECS. One (1) small WECS shall be allowed on a single lot up to one (1) acre in size. All other larger parcels will be allowed one (1) small WECS per five (5) acres of land area. (d) Design (1) Tower Configuration. All ground mounted WECS shall: a) Be installed with a tubular, monopole type tower. b) Have no guyed wires attached to the tower or other components. 5 C) Have no ladder, step bolts, rungs, or other features used for tower access to extend within eight (8) feet of the ground. Lattice-style towers shall have a protective barrier to prevent unauthorized access to the lower eight (8) feet of the tower. (2) Signs. A WECS operator is required to provide a single posting, not to exceed four (4) square feet, at the base of a WECS prohibiting trespassing, warning of high voltage, and providing the emergency contact information for the operator. 2. Roof Mounted WECS. (a) Height (1) Large Roof Mounted WECS: a) Total height of not more than twenty-five (25) feet, measured from the top of the roof to the blade tip at its highest point of travel. (2) Small Roof Mounted WECS: a) Total height of not more than twenty-five (25) feet, measured from the top of the roof to the blade tip at its highest point of travel. b) Residential Installation: In addition to the twenty-five (25) foot height restriction for the Small Roof Mounted WECS, the height of the WECS and the structure on which it is attached must not exceed the maximum height allowed in the residential zoning district for which it is installed. (b) Placement Roof mounted WECS must be erected above the roof of a building or structure. The mounts associated with the WECS may extend onto the side of the building or structure. (c) Number (1) Large Roof Mounted WECS. The maximum number of Large Roof Mounted WECS shall be approved through the conditional use permit process. (2) Small Roof Mounted WECS. No more than three (3) roof mounted Small WECS shall be installed on any rooftop. d. Conditional Use Permit Procedure. Procedures for granting conditional use permits from this ordinance are as follows: 6 1. The city council may approve conditional use permit requirements in this ordinance. 2. Before the city council acts on a conditional use permit the environmental and natural resources commission and the planning commission will make a recommendation to the city council. 3. In reviewing the conditional use permit the environmental and natural resources commission, planning commission, and city council will follow the requirements for conditional use permit approvals as outlined in Article V (conditional use permits). e. General Standards 1. The following provisions will apply to all WECS erected under the provisions of this ordinance: (a) Noise: Have a maximum noise production rating of fifty-five (55) dB fifty (50) dBA and shall conform to this standard under normal operating conditions as measured at any property line. (b) Over Speed Controls: Shall be equipped with manual and automatic over speed controls to limit the blade rotation within design specifications. (c) Lighting: Have no installed or accessory lighting, unless required by federal or state regulations. (d) Intent to Install: Prior to the installation or erection of a WECS, the operator must provide evidence showing their regular electrical service provider has been informed of the customer's intent to install an interconnected, customer-owned generator. Off-grid systems shall be exempt from this requirement. (e) Signs: The placement of all other signs, postings, or advertisements shall be prohibited on the units. This restriction shall not apply to manufacturer identification, unit model numbers, and similar production labels. 411 \ EGS shall ho limited tG the 6e of nn_ �,I ur-rrT �cr -r WEGS --�c-rtrrTr h'"'M" �rvrr thetet�7' ASA-stems .nr7 may be sell to the epera4nr's reg ilar olon4rinal SeF„ivrGe-Pivvraer in ,e,itthanagFeeMeR} PFE)Vided by the same (f�) Feeder Lines: Any lines accompanying a WECS, other than those contained within the WECS' tower or those attached to on-site structures by leads, shall be buried within the interior of the subject parcel, unless there are existing lines in the area which the lines accompanying a WECS can be attached. (g#) Clearance: Rotor blades or airfoils must maintain at least 20 feet of clearance between their lowest point and the ground. 7 (h+) Blade Design: The blade design and materials must be engineered to insure safe operation in an urban area. ( ) Energy Storage: Batteries or other energy storage devices shall be designed consistent with the Minnesota Electric Code and Minnesota Fire Code. 2. In addition to the provisions outlined in Section 3, item e(1) above, the following provisions will apply to large WECS erected under the provisions of this ordinance: (a) Color: Turbine paint color and high levels of ultraviolet and infrared components of paint could have an impact on the attraction of insect species to the structure, which may attract birds and bats and cause bird and bat mortality. As such, turbine paint color may be approved as part of the conditional use permit process and must be shown to reduce the negative impacts to birds and bats and be a non-obtrusive color so not to cause negative visual impacts to surrounding properties. (b) Warnings: A sign or signs shall be posted on the tower, transformer and substation warning of high voltage. Signs with emergency contact information shall also be posted on the turbine or at another suitable point. (c) Environmental Standards: The applicant shall provide the following information in the conditional use permit application. The information will be evaluated in meeting the criteria of a conditional use permit for purposes of minimizing impacts on the environment: (a) Natural Heritage Review by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. (b) Lands guided as park or open space in the city's Land Use Designation of the Comprehensive Plan that are located within one (1) mile of the project. (c) Conservation easements and other officially protected natural areas within a quarter mile of the project. (d) Shoreland, Mississippi Critical Area, Greenways, wetland buffers, wildlife corridors and habitat complexes. (e) All significant trees impacted by the project. (f) A plan for turbine-cut in speed strategies where feasible in order to reduce bird and bat deaths. Studies have shown that bird and bat fatalities would be significantly reduced by changing turbine cut-in speed and reducing operational hours during low-wind periods, evening hours (one-half hour before sunset to one-half hour after sunrise-only in spring, summer, and early fall), and migration times in spring and fall. 8 3. In addition to the provisions outlined in Section 3, item e(1) above, the following provisions will apply to small WECS erected under the provisions of this ordinance: (a) Color: Turbine paint color must be a non-obtrusive color so not to cause negative visual impacts to surrounding properties. f. Abandonment A WECS that is allowed to remain in a nonfunctional or inoperative state for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months, and which is not brought in operation within the time specified by the city after notification to the owner or operator of the WECS, shall be presumed abandoned and may be declared a public nuisance subject to removal at the expense of the operator. Section 4. Solar Energy Sources and Systems a. Definitions, Solar Energy Sources and Systems The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this Section, shall have the meaning provided herein, except where the context clearly indicates otherwise: Building-Integrated Solar System. An active solar system that is an integral part of a principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building. Building- integrated systems include, but are not limited to, photovoltaic or hot water solar systems that are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and awnings. Community Solar Garden. A solar energy system that generates electricity by means of a ground-mounted or roof-mounted solar photovoltaic device whereby subscribers receive a bill credit for the electricity generated in proportion to the size of their subscription. Ground Mounted Panels. Freestanding solar panels mounted to the ground by use of stabilizers or similar apparatus. Photovoltaic System. An active solar energy system that converts solar energy directly into electricity. Roof or Building Mounted SES. Solar energy system (panels) that are mounted to the roof or building using brackets, stands or other apparatus. Roof Pitch. The final exterior slope of a building roof calculated by the rise over the run, typically, but not exclusively, expressed in twelfths such as 3/12, 9/12, 12/12. Solar Access. A view of the sun, from any point on the collector surface that is not obscured by any vegetation, building, or object located on parcels of land other than the parcel upon which the solar collector is located, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM Standard time on any day of the year. 9 Solar Collector. A device, structure or a part of a device or structure for which the primary purpose is to transform solar radiant energy into thermal, mechanical, chemical, or electrical energy. Solar Energy. Radiant energy received from the sun that can be collected in the form of heat or light by a solar collector. Solar Energy System (SES). An active solar energy system that collects or stores solar energy and transforms solar energy into another form of energy or transfers heat from a collector to another medium using mechanical, electrical, or chemical means. Solar Hot Water System. A system that includes a solar collector and a heat exchanger that heats or preheats water for building heating systems or other hot water needs, including residential domestic hot water and hot water for commercial processes. b. Districts Solar energy systems (SES) shall be allowed as an accessory use in all zoning districts. Community solar gardens shall be allowed as a primary use in all zoning districts with a conditional use permit. C. Placement and Design 1. Height (a) Roof or building mounted SES are allowed to be ten (10) feet higher than sh.4IIApt o, the maximum allowed height in any zoning district. F-GF gni i�SeG f9F height eas6lTeMeR4 velar systems A-4hor 4hap b lildiRg iRtegrated solar systerns sh;;Il ho ^nncir-IororJ to ho deyi^oc .' R d A.Fta r9c4ri^4ord ^Grlcic4ta Rt ;niith Gthor hi IIIGIER@ MA-1-pted mo^h�Nl^�I ar lro,ii^oc .v-rv ..r. (b) Ground mounted SES shall not exceed the height of an allowed accessory structure within the zoning district when oriented at maximum tilt. (c) Community Solar Gardens shall not exceed the height of an allowed primary structure within the zoning district when oriented at maximum tilt. 2. Placement (a) Ground mounted SES must maintain a five (5) foot setback to any Property line.�eet t ;^^esseFY G# 4t Fe co+h;;^L f11r+ho _79-RiRg Glic+riGt in nihi^h i4 is inc4�llor-I (b) Roof or Building Mounted SES. The collector surface and mounting devices for roof or building mounted SES may sna44I et extend two 2 feet beyond the required setbacks of the building on which the system is mounted. 10 (c) Placement of Community Solar Gardens is set through the conditional use permit process. Qeverage iry e,in �te� �C,cRG)t y exceed r�ca-rest�t+erRS Placed n�cvcssei" st etur� gmthmP tttlia61bjeGt ZE)RTrORg driatrrict. 34. Visibility (a) SES are a visible sign of the City's commitment to sustainability, but shall be designed to blend into the architecture of the building or landscape. 1949 cnreener7 from rni nine VieW from ni 1blin Fight_ef_ways ether than alleys The nnlnr of the seler nellenter is net rens iireGI to he nnncictent Woth other TTc-vv*vr-vr vvTarvvrrcv crn�T�vc-r�urrca cv�c-vviTa ac cn cwrm�crr T rnnfinn materi;;lc (b) Building Integrated Solar Systems - Building integrated solar systems shall be allowed regardless of visibility, provided the building component in which the system is integrated meets all required setback, land use or performance standards for the zoning district in which the building is located. (c) Grei PtedSEES shall-be-ssTeeAedf��ea.g te tkte 4-94 4-QRtPoss+ble i i i in nit# - env Cnreeninn me i innli irle WA116 fennec nr IaRGIGGaPINn d. General Standards ", t+f leatFe Rr�te t h eanstal;�;;t+eR A—F erest+e n e� of a SES- n nerateF m-4 POV QV CiARne chE)Wing their regi filer elentriGal cerVine nreyider has been i r,ferMLQd of the ni-5;Uq mer4; INte rt to ir,ctell AY'1 gi 1ctervmer AVAPerl SE�9f grid syste.r+s sfa�I�eXeMpt 49M this-regaiFemeaT 121. Feeder lines. Any lines accompanying a SES, other than those attached to on- site structures by leads, shall be buried within the interior of the subject parcel, unless there are existing lines in the area which the lines accompanying an SES can be attached. r-Amme ;a1 411 R R R s#-i;;I l htQ lOR;OteGI to the p61Fp9seef GR Site egeFg- de enld may he sell to the eeerate F's regi iler elentrinel nrler fir, nnrrJ withenaggTreeMeRt PFGVided by t the same nr appliGable IeeggislaticTr. 24. Restrictions on SES Limited. No homeowners' agreement, covenant, common interest community, or other contract between multiple property owners within a subdivision of Maplewood shall restrict or limit solar systems to a greater extent than Maplewood's renewable energy ordinance. 35. Maplewood encourages solar access to be protected in all new subdivisions and allows for existing solar to be protected consistent with Minnesota Statutes. Any solar easements filed, must be consistent with Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 500, Section 30. 11 e. Abandonment A SES that is allowed to remain in a nonfunctional or inoperative state for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months, and which is not brought in operation within the time specified by the city, shall be presumed abandoned and may be declared a public nuisance subject to removal at the expense of the operator. Section 5. Geothermal Energy Sources and Systems a. Definitions, Geothermal Energy Sources and Systems The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this Section, shall have the meaning provided herein, except where the context clearly indicates otherwise: Closed Loop Ground Source Heat Pump System. A system that circulates a heat transfer fluid, typically food-grade antifreeze, through pipes or coils buried beneath the land surface or anchored to the bottom in a body of water. Geothermal Energy. Renewable energy generated from the interior of the earth and used to produce energy for heating buildings or serving building commercial or industrial processes. Ground Source Heat Pump System (GSHPS). A system that uses the relatively constant temperature of the earth or a body of water to provide heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. System components include closed loops of pipe, coils or plates; a fluid that absorbs and transfers heat; and a heat pump unit that processes heat for use or disperses heat for cooling; and an air distribution system. The energy m 'S+ ho11Sord eP Heat Transfer Fluid. A non-toxic and food grade fluid such as potable water, aqueous solutions of propylene glycol not to exceed twenty percent (20%) by weight or aqueous solutions of potassium acetate not to exceed twenty percent (20%) by weight. Stormwater Pond. These are ponds created for stormwater treatment. A stormwater pond shall not include wetlands created to mitigate the loss of other wetlands. b. Districts Ground source heat pump systems (GSHPS) shall be deemed an accessory structure, permissible in all zoning districts. C. Placement and Design 1. Placement (a) All components of GSHPS including pumps, borings and loops shall be set back at least five (5) feet from interior and rear lot lines. (b) Easements. All components of GSHPS shall not encroach on easements. 12 (c) GSHPS are prohibited in surface waters, except for stormwater ponds where they are permitted. 2. Design (a) Only closed loop GSHPS utilizing Minnesota Department of Health approved heat transfer fluids are permitted. (b) Screening. Ground source heat pumps are considered mechanical equipment and subject to the requirements of the city's zoning ordinance. d. General Standards 1. Noise. GSHPS shall comply with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency standards outlined in Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030. e. Abandonment A GSHPS that is allowed to remain in a nonfunctional or inoperative state for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months, and which is not brought in operation within the time specified by the city after notification to the owner or operator of the GSHPS, shall be presumed abandoned and may be declared a public nuisance subject to removal at the expense of the operator. Section 6. General Ordinance Provisions a. Interpretation In interpreting this ordinance and its application, the provisions of these regulations shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the protection of public health, safety and general welfare. This ordinance shall be construed broadly to promote the purposes for which it was adopted. b. Conflict This ordinance is not intended to interfere with, abrogate or annul any other ordinance, rule or regulation, statute or other provision of law except as provided herein. If any provision of this ordinance imposes restrictions different from any other ordinance, rule or regulation, statute or provision of law, the provision that is more restrictive or imposes high standards shall control. C. Severability If any part or provision of this ordinance or its application to any developer or circumstance is judged invalid by any competent jurisdiction, the judgment shall be confined in its operation to the part, provision or application directly involved in the controversy in which the judgment shall be rendered and shall not affect or impair the validity of the remainder of these regulations or the application of them to other developers or circumstances. 13 Attachment 4 Solar System Permit Fee Review August 15, 2018 Following is a comparison of permit fees charged in eight communities for a solar system with a value of$12,000. 1. Blaine Building permit $12,000 system = **$100 Electrical permit done by State 5— 10 KWH = $100 **flat fee permit Total = $200.00 2. St Paul Building permit **$12,000 install cost = $275 + 178.75 = $453.75 Electrical permit 0— 20 KWH = $131 ** They do not include panel cost as value. It would be more likely if it was 5 KWH system minus panel cost would be around $4,000. The fee would be $211.75 + $131.00 = $342.75 Total. 3. Apple Valley Building permit $12,000 system = $288 Electrical permit 5— 10 KWH = $100 Total = $388.00 4. Inver Grove Building permit $12,000 system = $365.06 Electrical permit done by State 5— 10 KWH = $100 Total = $465.06 5. Eagan Building permit $12,000 system = $371.06 Electrical permit done by State 5— 10 KWH = $100 Total = $471.06 6. Maplewood Building permit $12,000 system = $412.00 Electrical permit 5— 10 KWH = $100.00 Total = $512.00 7. Woodbury Building permit $12,000 system = $413.74 Electrical permit done by State 5— 10 KWH = $100 Total = $513.74 8. Edina Building permit $12,000 system = $447.61 Electrical permit done by State 5— 10 KWH = $100 Total = $547.61