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Zoning board backs revised rules for ground-mounted solar: lower height, screening and fencing requirements
Summary
The Zoning Board of Appeals recommended the Village Board approve proposed changes (CBA 2024-016) to Roscoe’s zoning code for solar energy collection systems, including reducing allowed maximum height for ground-mounted panels from 12 to 10 feet and adding screening/fencing requirements and special-use review for systems on smaller parcels.
The Village of Roscoe Zoning Board of Appeals reviewed a proposed text amendment (CBA 2024-016) addressing solar energy collection systems and voted to forward the draft to the Village Board with the recommended changes.
The draft reduces the proposed maximum height for ground-mounted solar energy systems from 12 feet to 10 feet and adds a screening and fencing element that gives the Zoning Board authority during a special-use approval to require concealment measures. For parcels of less than 2.5 acres, the draft would require compliance with the village fencing rules for screening: the code as discussed requires fences that do not exceed 6 feet in height and the solar array must be at least one foot shorter than the fence so panels would not extend above the permitted fence height.
Board members asked questions about whether required fences could exceed typical fence height limits and about safety and inspection. Staff and discussion participants said county electrical inspectors review installations and that wiring is typically contained, with panels producing direct current that is converted by an inverter; one participant noted battery storage remains uncommon because of cost. The draft also clarifies that private solar energy equipment is not classified as an accessory structure for the purposes of the accessory-structure provisions.
Members said the added screening authority would help protect the appearance of subdivisions and allow the board to require vegetation, fences or other screening where appropriate. The board concluded the draft provides discretion for small and large parcels and would likely limit permit applications to larger lots while giving protection for smaller-lot neighbors.
The board voted to send the amendment to the Village Board for its consideration.
Votes at a glance: motion to forward CBA 2024-016 to the Village Board for approval with the draft language discussed (mover recorded; second recorded; roll call recorded as affirmative).
