Yorktown Amends Solar Rules to Limit Arrays
(May 23, 2022)—Yorktown has adopted new solar power generation rules to limit solar panel arrays.
The changes to the Town’s rules include requirements on minimum property sizes; analyses of effects on woodlands; and decommissioning plans for large arrays, among other changes.
“We’ve had quite a robust series of public hearings and discussions on this, and I think our product really struck the balance that we all sought,” said Supervisor Matt Slater.
The minimum-property-size rules include requiring at least two acres of land for any system in residential districts, which must also be placed on side or rear yards. Large-scale energy systems must have a minimum lot size of five acres.
“I believe this law struck a gentle balance between an all-out moratorium on ground mounted solar and what we have now. In the future we may have to tweak the law a bit, but as it stands right now, I think it gives protection to not only homeowners and neighbors but to the environment and our woodlands and wetlands,” said Councilman Tom Diana.
The new rules also require annual inspections of approved landscaping that screens the installations. For large-scale solar energy systems proposed to be installed on protected woodlands, the applicant must provide an in-depth analysis of the functions of the woodlands.
“The town board worked hard to find a balance in the solar law that protects our trees while giving us the opportunity to create more solar energy. I am very proud of the work that we did as a team,” said Councilman Ed Lachterman.
All applications for a solar farm must be accompanied by a decommissioning plan to be implemented upon cessation of activity, or in conjunction with removal of the facility, prior to issuance of a building permit. The Planning Board will require the applicant to file a decommissioning bond prior to the issuance of any permits in an amount sufficient to cover the cost of decommissioning.
Contact: Yorktown Supervisor Matt Slater, 914-962-5722 x201 or mslater@yorktownny.org
