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Commission discusses solar screening, accessory uses and local setbacks
Summary
Members debated whether the town may require screening for rooftop and small ground‑mounted solar and noted such installations are generally accessory uses that must still meet local setbacks; speakers agreed to read state law and clarify bylaw language for screening and site review.
Speaker 3 raised rooftop and ground‑mounted solar screening and asked whether the draft bylaws clearly address screening for installations near roads. Commissioners discussed that while the state regulates some aspects of energy projects, accessory uses (solar panels, propane tanks) "still have to go through the town" and comply with local setback requirements, as Speaker 6 and Speaker 1 noted.
The group agreed to research how other towns handle screening language and whether the planning commission should include clear site‑plan review procedures and screening requirements for accessory installations; members asked staff to compile examples and relevant statutory language for the next drafting session.
