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An Ordinance amending the Lexington-Fayette County Zoning Ordinance by creating Article 31: Solar Energy Systems, in order to provide guidance in facilitating the siting, development, construction, installation, and decommissioning of solar energy systems. (Urban County Council). [Council Office, Hall]
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WHEREAS, the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government's Zoning Ordinance does not include specific Sections to govern the siting, development, construction, installation, and decommissioning of solar energy systems; and
WHEREAS, the Urban County Council has determined that it is important to provide clarity for the siting, development, construction, installation, and decommissioning of solar energy systems in Lexington-Fayette County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE LEXINGTON-FAYETTE URBAN COUNTY GOVERNMENT:
Section 1 - That Article 31 of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Zoning Ordinance be and hereby is created to read as follows:
ARTICLE 31: SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
Sec. 31-1. Intent
The intent of this Article is to facilitate the siting, development, construction, installation, and decommissioning of solar energy systems in a predictable manner that promotes and protects the safety, health, and welfare of the community. This Article encourages the appropriate siting of solar energy systems to bolster local economic development and job creation, diversify the state's energy portfolio, strengthen energy and grid security, and reduce other environmental impacts. The appropriate siting of solar energy systems considers, avoids to the extent possible, and mitigates any adverse impacts to wildlife, productive and nationally important agricultural lands, forests, endangered species habitat, and historic, natural, and other sensitive lands. The appropriate siting of solar energy systems also establishes standards and requirements to assure that the use and enjoyment of lands located adjacent to and in the proximity of so...
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