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Planning commission recommends directing large-scale solar to industrial M-3 zone
Summary
The commission approved forwarding ordinance amendment OA-25 (solar) to the Board of Supervisors. The amendment would remove large- and small-scale solar energy facilities as special-exception uses in A-1, RA, B-1, M-1 and M-2 and allow them only by special exception in M-3; rooftop solar would remain permitted as an accessory use.
The Prince George Planning Commission voted unanimously on June 26 to forward ordinance amendment OA-25 (solar) to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation for approval. The draft amendment would change the zoning ordinance so that large-scale and small-scale ground-mounted solar energy facilities are permitted by special exception only in the M-3 zoning district; under current rules they are permitted by special exception in multiple districts including A-1, RA, B-1, M-1 and M-2.
Staff said the amendment was prepared following direction from the Board of Supervisors on April 22 and a siting-policy amendment the Board adopted on June 10. Staff emphasized that the change would not affect rooftop solar panels, which are accessory uses permitted by right where buildings are otherwise allowed.
The public hearing was advertised in accordance with state law; no public comments were received prior to or during the hearing. Staff recommended approval because the draft changes reflect Board direction and align with both the existing comprehensive plan and the draft PG 2045 plan under development.
The Planning Commission’s advisory recommendation moves the ordinance amendment to the Board of Supervisors, which must decide whether to adopt the zoning change.
