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Planning commission advances ordinance to set 2,000-foot setbacks for transmission lines over 345 kV; amendment allows reduced setbacks by landowner consent
Summary
Proposed amendment B2022-01-11 would require 2,000-foot setbacks from inhabited residences for overhead transmission lines over 345 kV; the Planning & Zoning Board approved an amendment permitting reduced setbacks with landowner permission and scheduled a first reading March 3, 2026.
The Deuel County Planning and Zoning Commission on Feb. 3, 2026, held a public hearing on proposed ordinance B2022-01-11, which would amend general zoning requirements to address “Essential Services,” including overhead electrical transmission lines with voltage greater than 345 kilovolts.
The proposed changes to Article XII would require a 2,000‑foot setback from any inhabited residence for transmission lines above 345 kV and add criteria for support structures. The ordinance also amends Article XI to list Essential Services as a conditional use provided the Section 1248 requirements are satisfied.
During the public hearing, multiple residents and stakeholders provided input. The Zoning Board moved to amend the proposal so landowners could grant permission for reduced setbacks; that amendment carried. The commission scheduled the first reading of B2022-01-11 for March 3, 2026.
Why it matters: the changes would establish a high baseline setback for very large transmission infrastructure and create a path for conditional approval where landowners consent. The board’s amendment preserves local flexibility through written landowner agreement while formalizing standards for very high‑voltage lines.
Next steps: the ordinance proceeds to first reading March 3; county staff and the planning commission will continue to solicit input and refine technical standards such as structure size limits and setback measurement procedures.
