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Deuel County holds first reading of zoning ordinance amendment to set three-year permit expiration for wind and solar projects
Summary
Deuel County commissioners and the Planning and Zoning Commission held a joint public hearing and completed a first reading of Ordinance B2022-01-10 to add a three-year permit-expiration rule for Wind Energy System and Solar Energy System permits and to define “Actual Construction.” The board set a second reading for Jan. 20, 2026.
Deuel County commissioners, meeting with the Planning and Zoning Commission, held a public hearing on Jan. 6 and completed the first reading of Ordinance B2022-01-10, which would amend the county zoning ordinance to add a three-year permit-expiration provision for both Wind Energy System (WES) and Solar Energy System (SES) permits and to add a definition of “Actual Construction.”
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the amendments, and Commissioner Harry Mewherter moved to set a second reading for Jan. 20, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.; Commissioner Scott Fieber seconded the motion and all voted yes.
Under the proposed language, a permit would become void if no substantial actual construction has commenced within three years of issuance. The draft also defines “Actual Construction” to mean that construction materials are permanently placed and that construction work is proceeding. Proponents and the commission framed the change as a measure to clarify permit timelines and ensure active progress on projects.
The ordinance text presented to the board also states that the ordinance takes effect upon publication in the official newspaper unless a timely referendum intervenes. The hearing record does not include additional conditions or vote tallies beyond the motion to set the second reading.
The ordinance applies countywide; the board, together with the Planning and Zoning Commission, will consider public comment and the second reading on Jan. 20. The record shows the Planning and Zoning Commission members present for the joint hearing included Mike Dahl, Mike Lammers and Kevin DeBoer.
