Wind energy systems can be installed in Addison, however they require a Special Use Permit.

Here are the criteria, or guidelines, for approving a wind energy system:

a)  A building permit shall be required for the installation of a wind energy system.

b)  A wind energy system is only permitted as a secondary use. A wind energy system may not be erected on a lot until a primary structure has been constructed.

c)  The property which the wind energy system is located on shall be a minimum of one (1) acre in size. Two (2) additional acres of land is required for each additional wind energy system on the property. For example, for two (2) wind energy systems on one property, the size of the property shall be a minimum of three (3) acres in size.

d)  The tower for a wind energy system shall be setback a minimum of the distance equal to 1.25 times the height of the tower from all property lines, rights of way, and overhead utility lines. The tower for a wind energy system shall not be located in the front yard.

e)  The tower for a wind energy system shall be setback a minimum distance of two hundred fifty (250) feet from any other tower for a wind energy system.

f)  The maximum height of a wind energy system, including the turbine and blades, shall be sixty (60) feet.

g)  The minimum height of the lowest part of the blade shall be twenty (20) feet above grade. Blades are not permitted to extend over driveways, parking areas, or sidewalks.

h)  A wind energy system shall be equipped with manual (electronic or mechanical) and automatic over speed controls.

i)  Only monopole towers without guy wires shall be permitted. Lattice type towers are strictly prohibited.

j)  A wind energy system shall comply with applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, including any necessary approvals for installations close to airports. A wind energy system shall not be lighted unless such lighting is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

k)  A wind energy system shall remain painted or finished the color or finish that was originally applied by the manufacturer. Primary, secondary, and bright colors are not permitted.

l)  Ground equipment associated with a wind energy system shall be screened from the view of public rights-of-way and adjacent properties.

m) Decorative features, banners, and flags shall not be attached to the wind energy system.

n)  All signs, other than appropriate warning signs, shall be prohibited.

o) Wind energy units shall remain under the ownership of the property owner on which the wind energy unit is located. Pooling power supply output from more than one property for a common operator is prohibited.