of the Town of Mount Desert, Maine
www.SRATMD.org
Staff
Feb 18, 2025
Town of Mount Desert Land Use Committee Advances Solar Energy Regulations
In a recent meeting on February 18, 2025, the Town of Mount Desert's Land Use Zoning Ordinance (LUZO) Committee made significant strides in revising the town's solar energy regulations. The committee's efforts aim to promote renewable energy while preserving the town's visual character and addressing neighborly concerns.
Key Developments
System Categories
The committee established two primary categories for solar systems: ground-mounted and roof-mounted. These categories are further divided into small and medium systems based on size.
Permit Requirements
Medium-scale systems will require planning board approval, whereas small roof-mounted systems typically do not need permits.
Height Restrictions
A maximum height of 15 feet was set for ground-mounted systems, with provisions for exceptions in specific cases.
Visual Impact Mitigation
To minimize visual impacts, the committee emphasized the use of screening and native vegetation. Property owners are responsible for maintaining these visual barriers.
Removal and Abandonment
Criteria for the removal and abandonment of both small and medium ground-mounted systems were streamlined to ensure efficient management.
The committee's goal is to strike a balance between promoting renewable energy and preserving the town's aesthetic appeal. The final draft of these regulations will be forwarded for further action, marking a significant step towards integrating solar energy into the town's landscape while respecting its natural beauty and community values.