Longboat Key to consider adding solar power chapter to town code

The Longboat Key Town Commission will soon consider regulating solar energy systems in town code, which would define the types of solar panel installations the town allows.

“Right now, there are no hinderances to installing solar energy systems, but what the town doesn’t have is explicit requirements,” said Longboat Key Planning and Zoning Director Allen Parsons. “So, adding a section on solar panels will make it easier for someone to find out what the town requirements are without having to directly consult with staff, though they still can do that, of course.”

The Planning and Zoning Board discussed what that chapter should include at its Nov. 18 meeting. Board members gave direction to town staff to tweak the ordinance to be less restrictive, removing aesthetic requirements that board members said would be too subjective. 

The change in the ordinance will also require that ground-mounted solar installations follow the same buffering and screening requirements as mechanical equipment like air conditioning units and generators.

The solar panel code section defines two types of solar panel systems: ground-mounted and roof-mounted. Solar panels would not be permitted to be installed on the side of a building under the proposed code, and solar panels could not extend off the roof for a larger footprint.

The town of Longboat Key has requirements for coverage on a lot on impervious surfaces like concrete, roofing or asphalt. 

If an installed ground-mounted solar panel system is on top of a permeable surface like grass, it would not be among calculations for lot coverage for impervious surface areas. 

That means a backyard solar panel installation would not lead to code enforcement action if it follows the town code requirements for mechanical equipment.

Town staff will take the input given by the Planning and Zoning Board and write a final draft for the new ordinance. The presentation of the final draft will be to the Planning and Zoning Board at its December meeting. The board will vote on whether to recommend approval or denial of the ordinance before placing it on the Town Commission agenda in January.

“I think I see a light at the end of the tunnel here,” said Planning and Zoning Board member David Lapovsky.