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Norton BZA approves variance for 35-foot solar array at 3319 Hillcrest Avenue
Summary
The Norton Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance allowing a freestanding, dual-axis solar array up to 35 feet tall at 3319 Hillcrest Avenue. The board accepted the application as presented after hearing from the applicant and the city zoning administrator.
The Norton Board of Zoning Appeals voted to approve a variance allowing a freestanding solar array up to 35 feet tall at 3319 Hillcrest Avenue during a public hearing on April 15.
The variance, filed by Matthew Cesario, was requested because the proposed dual-axis array — measuring roughly 900 square feet and about 30–35 feet tall at full tilt — would exceed the city—s accessory-structure height and detached-building square-footage limits. Zoning administrator Bill Bridal presented the ordinance references and said the installation would push the property over the allowed detached-building square footage.
Bridal told the board that the application had been filed with the city on March 11, 2025, and that notice was mailed at least 10 days before the original hearing date as required under the Charter of the City of Norton. Installer Scott A. Didek described the array—s size and operation: "it's roughly 900 square feet... it's on a dual axis... total height at full tilt" of about 30–35 feet. Cesario, the property owner, said the array would be sited roughly 30 feet from the rear fence to get over tall trees and capture morning sun.
Board members asked whether the system would include batteries; the applicant said no and explained that excess generation would be credited to his account. Cesario described the motivation for the project, saying he has lived in Norton 19 years and that rising electric costs after changes by Ohio Edison have made solar more attractive. He told the board the neighborhood is largely all-electric and that the proposed height was intended to clear tree cover for summer solar access.
After closing the fact-finding portion of the hearing and reopening for formal action, a motion "to accept the application as presented, including the height of 35 feet" was made and seconded. The board conducted a roll-call vote and the motion passed. The chair said staff would follow up with the applicant on paperwork needed to finalize the permit.
The board also approved the minutes of its March 18, 2025 meeting later in the session.
The hearing is closed; staff will coordinate next administrative steps with the applicant.
