17.30.100 Solar energy systems.
A. It is the intent of this section to protect and maintain the importance of solar energy systems in implementing sustainability goals and policies of the city, and to implement all solar energy regulations as appropriate per the laws of the state of California.
B. Location and Performance Standards. In any single-family or two-family (duplex) dwelling, solar energy shall be permitted subject to the following provisions:
1. The city shall not require approval for any solar energy system based on the approval of the system by an association, as that term is defined in Section 4080 of the Civil Code.
2. Ground-mounted systems shall conform to the setback requirements for the main structure and shall be located outside the front yard area to minimize their visibility from any public right-of-way.
3. Where practical, solar collector panels shall be roof mounted.
4. Roof-mounted collector panels shall be flush mounted at the same or as close as possible to the pitch of the roof, and where feasible, be placed in the location least visible from public streets, without reducing the operating efficiency of the collectors.
5. Equipment appurtenant to solar collectors, including electrical and related fixtures, shall be installed within a structure on which the collectors are mounted, and painted to match the building, where feasible, or shall be screened from public view.
6. A solar panel or module array shall not exceed the maximum permitted building height as set forth in this zoning code.
7. Solar energy systems for producing electricity shall meet all applicable safety and performance standards established by the California Electrical Code, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and accredited testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories regarding safety. (Ord. 706 §3 (Exh. A), 2019).