Commission permits front‑yard solar array after staff finds screening adequate
Summary
PLDRC approved after‑the‑fact variances to allow a ground‑mounted solar array in a front‑yard setback, citing screening measures and the homeowner’s need for emergency backup power; votes were split for one variance but both ultimately passed.
The Planning & Land Development Regulation Commission approved two after‑the‑fact variances Dec. 18 to permit a ground‑mounted solar array in a front‑yard setback in an R3 neighborhood.
Staff Planner Kelly Tucker told commissioners the system was installed without permits and that the company that performed the work could not be contacted; environmental and development engineering reviews found no objections provided land‑development code standards are met and that the array is screened by landscaping. Tucker said roof mounting was infeasible because the house’s 1972 roof could not support panels, so the applicants placed a ground‑mounted array in a screened location.
Applicants Linda Wace and Eric Plauberg said the array is intended to provide emergency generator backup and that they have resubmitted plans through a licensed solar contractor to complete permitting and inspections. Wace said the placement maximized sun exposure while remaining visually unobtrusive; one commissioner who visited the neighborhood said the panels are not visible from the road because they sit below the fence line.
After discussion and a request to separate votes, the PLDRC approved variance 1 on a 4–3 roll call and approved variance 2 unanimously. Staff conditions focus on meeting land‑development and inspection requirements during permitting.
What happens next: Applicants must complete required inspections and obtain permits; any unpermitted contractor work or complaint issues may be handled by code enforcement.
