Commission tables solar-energy text amendment to refine screening language for roof-mounted panels

Planning staff presented a text amendment on Aug. 13 to revise Brentwood’s zoning code language on solar installations, replacing the term ‘‘solar collectors’’ with ‘‘solar energy systems’’ and adding explicit development standards for roof-mounted and ground-mounted systems. The commission carried the item to Sept. 10 for additional wording refinements and ARB input.

Why it matters: The revision responds to a SolSmart review and is intended to remove ambiguous or outdated terminology, clarify where rooftop panels are allowed, and incorporate design guidance from recently adopted residential design guidelines.

Key provisions proposed by staff: Whitney Kelly said staff’s redline would allow roof-mounted solar on any roof face provided connectors and metal trim are dark bronze or black to minimize glare, panels be flush-mounted to respect architectural features and that panels not project vertically above the peak of a sloped roof unless otherwise demonstrated to be screened from view (for example by a parapet). Ground-mounted systems would be treated as accessory structures and subject to applicable development standards.

Commission feedback and concerns: Commissioners supported clarifying the terminology and aligning the code with residential design guidelines, but asked staff to refine the ‘‘otherwise demonstrated screened from view’’ language. Commissioners noted many variables — roof pitch, parapet height and viewpoints — and asked for clearer criteria that distinguish sloped roofs from flat-roof commercial conditions. Commissioner Matt Foreman suggested separating requirements for sloped and flat roofs and requesting photographic or elevation visualizations in some cases. Foreman also raised the risk that screening elements could be more obtrusive than low-profile panels on certain flat roofs.

Next steps: The commission asked staff and members of the Architectural Review Board to draft tightened language that clarifies when screening is required and how to demonstrate it; the item was carried to the Sept. 10 meeting for a revised ordinance text. No vote on final language occurred on Aug. 13.

Context: Staff said the city recently received a Bronze designation from SolSmart and that ARB had in 2021 allowed staff-level approval for roof-mounted panels provided dark mounting hardware and screening considerations. The amendment is intended to codify that approach and to remove the less-current ‘‘solar collector’’ terminology from the zoning code.