small wind

Small Wind Toolbox

Zoning

Cities and counties can decrease the time and expense needed for you to obtain a turbine permit by specifically including turbines in the language of their zoning ordinances. Most ordinances do not address wind turbines, forcing applicants to obtain conditional use permits or waivers, which are often difficult and costly.
 

The following guidebook, In the Public Interest: How and Why to Permit for Small Wind Systems (AWEA, 2008), is designed to help policymakers and advocates understand small wind systems and the best ways to regulate their installation.  Consumers, advocates, and equipment dealers/installers may also benefit from this guide, which represents best practices and lessons learned from decades of industry experience and tens of thousands of installations.

Other Ordinances of note:
California passed a state law that sets minimum allowances counties must grant small wind turbines regarding tower heights, noise levels, and other permitting restrictions. The law is the default zoning ordinance for counties that do not specifically address small wind energy systems in their land-use codes.

San Bernardino County elected to exceed the minimum allowable tower height established by California's state law for property in rural desert areas.

Minnesota, Montana, and Nebraska allow turbine owners to acquire wind easements on adjoining properties to prevent structures that would impede wind currents on the turbine site.

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