(1) Building permits are required for all solar energy systems.

(2) The setbacks and approval required for each type of solar energy system are summarized in the table titled "Setback and Yard Requirements for Ground-Mounted Solar Energy Systems," and are further described below.

(3) Qualified installer. All solar energy installations must be performed by a qualified solar installer and, prior to issuance of a certificate of compliance, must be inspected by a Town Code Enforcement Officer or by an appropriate electrical inspection person or agency, as determined by the Town. In addition, any connection to the public utility grid must be approved by the appropriate public utility. No grid-tied solar energy system may be installed until the applicant has submitted evidence that the utility company has been informed of the customer's intent to install an interconnected customer-owned generator or meter, including the receipt of documentation from said utility that it will connect the system. Off-grid systems are exempt from this requirement.

(4) Battery energy storage systems. When energy storage batteries are included as part of the solar energy system, they must be placed in a secure container or enclosure meeting the requirements of the New York State Building Code when in use and when no longer used shall be disposed of in accordance with the laws and regulations of Tompkins County and other applicable laws and regulations. The on-site accumulation, incineration, disposal, or storage of inoperable or damaged batteries is expressly prohibited.

(5) For purposes of this § 270-219.1, a solar energy system use is an accessory use on a lot if it is designed for a use primarily on the lot.

(6) In the event of inconsistency between the provisions in this § 270-219.1 and other provisions in Chapter 270 or Chapter 271 (such as setback or height requirements), the provisions in § 270-219.1 shall govern.

See § 270-219.1: Solar energy systems for complete, detailed information.
See Building Forms for more information.