Town and Country approves front-facing solar conditional use and tightens ARB public-notice rules

The Town and Country Board of Aldermen unanimously approved two ordinances during its March 9 meeting: a conditional-use permit for a front-facing roof-mounted solar system at 12545 Ammersham Court and an amendment to the municipal code on architectural-review public notice.

The first measure, Bill 2606, addressed a conditional use request for an accessory roof-mounted solar energy system that would face a public street at 12545 Ammersham Court. Alderman Schwear asked planning staff to explain the applicant’s constraints, and staff said both the front and back elevations of the property face streets, leaving no non-street-facing roof plane suitable for the panels. The board voted by roll call and adopted the ordinance unanimously; the measure became Ordinance No. 4734.

The second measure, Bill 2607, amends Title 5, Chapter 500—specifically section 500.100—concerning public-notice requirements tied to architectural review. The bill was read, moved and seconded, and passed unanimously; it became Ordinance No. 4735.

Votes at a glance: - Bill 2606 (conditional use for roof-mounted solar at 12545 Ammersham Court): approved unanimously; became Ordinance No. 4734. - Bill 2607 (amend Title 5, ch. 500, §500.100 public-notice requirements for architectural review): approved unanimously; became Ordinance No. 4735.

Why it matters: The solar conditional-use decision allows a homeowner to install street-facing roof panels where lot orientation leaves no alternative; the code amendment alters notice procedures affecting how future designs are reviewed publicly. Board members said the solar case was “unusual” and handled on a case-by-case basis.

The board continued other land-use items to the March 23 meeting and adjourned.