§ 13.5-3. Definitions.

For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms and words are hereby defined; words used in the present tense shall include the future: words used in the singular number shall include the plural number; and the plural and the singular; and the word "shall" is mandatory and not discretionary.

Abandonment means to give up, discontinue, withdraw from. Any solar energy facility that ceases to produce energy on a continuous basis for 12 months will be considered abandoned.

Building means any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls, and designated or intended for the shelter, support, enclosure or protection of persons, animals or chattels

Decommissioning plan means a document that details the planned shut down or removal of a solar energy facility from operation or usage.

Fence/barrier means a continuous barrier extending from the surface of the ground to a uniform height of not less than six feet from the ground at any given point, constructed of soil, wood, stone, steel, or other metal, or any substance of a similar nature and strength.

Gate means a door or other device attached to a fence which, when opened, provides a means of ingress or egress of persons and things for which it was intended, and which, when closed, forms a continuous barrier as a part of the fence to which it is attached.

Improved area means an area containing perimeter fencing, solar panels, electrical inverters, storage buildings and access roads.

Opaque fence means a continuous opaque, unperforated barrier extending from the surface of the ground to a uniform height of not less than six feet from the ground at any given point, constructed of soil, wood, stone, steel, or other metal, or any substance of a similar nature and strength which will conceal the solar energy facility from view.

Operator means the person(s), entity, or company that engages in or runs a solar energy facility.

Owner means the person(s), entity, or company having legal title to the subject property wherein the solar energy facility is located.

Public road means any road or highway which is now or hereafter maintained by the North Carolina Department of Transportation as part of the State Highway System. Setbacks for improved areas shall be measured from the road right-of-way.

Residence means a building used as a dwelling for one or more families or persons.

Residential area means any area within one quarter mile of a solar energy facility having 25 or more dwellings.

Solar energy facility means an energy generating facility or area principally used to covert solar energy to electricity, which includes, but is not limited to, the use of one or more solar energy systems. This definition shall only include those facilities whose primary purpose is to sell electricity to be used off site.

(Ord. of 11-20-17, Art. 3)