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Mount Holly council approves text amendment to allow taller commercial solar canopies
Summary
The Mount Holly City Council voted to approve a zoning text amendment to let some commercial properties build 12- to 20-foot solar canopies if they meet setbacks and lot-size rules. The change was requested to accommodate a planned Atrium Health canopy project.
The Mount Holly City Council on July 14 approved a text amendment to the city zoning ordinance that allows certain commercial solar energy systems to be taller than current rules permit. The amendment, filed as case TA255, changes section 7.1, note 28 to permit ground-mounted small commercial solar energy systems between 12 and 20 feet in height on qualifying parcels.
Planning staff told the council the amendment was initiated by Atrium Health to accommodate solar-panel canopies over parking at the Atrium Rehabilitation Center. Planning staff said the revision would allow commercial properties to build 12- to 20-foot canopies if they meet a 100-foot setback from all property lines and are on lots of at least three acres. Planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval.
Councilmember Jones (planning staff) said staff reviewed wind-load concerns and gave an initial rating of 105 miles per hour; staff told the council they considered that rating when crafting the height range. Councilmember Reeves asked whether increasing maximum height would change the wind rating; staff responded that the project would remain within the 105-mph design rating.
Councilmember Huff moved approval; Councilmember Reeves seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
The ordinance change applies only to the specific table note identified as section 7.1, note 28 and was tied to case number TA255. The amendment does not alter other solar standards or residential allowances. The council did not hold any public speakers on the item during the public hearing.
Council members and staff said the change is meant to accommodate Atrium Health’s planned canopies and to allow similar future commercial development under the stated setback and lot-size conditions.
