Planning commission keeps solar rules open after residents demand stronger setbacks, noise and notice protections

Lincoln County planners on May 12 did not adopt final rules for non‑accessory (utility‑scale) solar systems, instead directing staff to draft additional protections after extensive public comment.

Staff presented a draft that would make non‑accessory solar systems a conditional use in A‑1 agricultural zoning and include standards such as a 750‑ft minimum setback, screening, buried interior lines, driven foundations, decommissioning plans in the landowner’s name, and a 2,500‑ft density separation between systems. "The idea is that we make this a conditional use within the A‑1 district," county planner Toby Brower said.

Public commenters urged a stronger package of protections modeled on the county’s wind (KayO) ordinance: scaled setbacks tied to project footprint (acres), limits on down‑lighting and signage, a noise cap (several speakers suggested 45 dB at property line), protections against electromagnetic interference, mandatory neighborhood notification for properties within a multi‑mile radius, and transfer/maintenance obligations to prevent quick resale without ongoing upkeep. Bethany Eric asked staff to "pull in" provisions on lighting, signage and noise consistent with existing county CUs for other energy projects.

Commissioners discussed formulas for scaling setbacks (feet per acre), waiver procedures, and the need for a clear numeric standard. They asked staff to draft revised language — including lighting, signage and noise limits modeled after existing wind/KayO provisions and a setback scaled by project footprint — and return next month for additional public comment. No final vote was taken.

What to expect: Staff will prepare a revised draft addressing the public input, including sample per‑acre setbacks and modeled noise/lighting/signage language. The commission scheduled further deliberation and additional public input at a subsequent meeting.