Maricopa County - Renewable Energy Systems Zoning Ordinance

Summary

The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance contains provisions for siting renewable energy systems. Renewable energy systems other than utility-scale electric generating facilities are allowed as an accessory use within any zoning district as long as certain siting requirements are met. Utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) or concentrating solar power (CSP) facilities are allowed as a primary or accessory use within any IND-3 zoning district, subject to the district's zoning standards and that any water consumed in the production of electricity is supplied from a renewable water source.

Lot Coverage: Small wind systems and dish type collectors do not constitute an increase to lot or rear yard coverage. PVP and CSP facilities do not constitute an increase to lot coverage unless the panel(s)/collector(s) and supporting structures constitute a building.

Height Limitations: Ground-mounted equipment for non-solar or wind equipment which is located in a side lot may not be taller than 6 feet, unless it is screened from view. All other height regulations are set by the individual zoning districts.

Dilapidation: Systems that become inoperable must either be fixed or removed from the property (at the owner's expense) within 1 year of becoming inoperable.

Off-grid solar panels that only serve a single electric fixture or appliance are exempt from the provisions of the zoning ordinance, except the dilapidation requirements.

Information regarding permitting requirements is available here.