SOLAR:
Section 7.17 Solar Panels. No solar energy collector panels or attendant hardware or other energy conservation equipment shall be constructed or installed on any Lot without prior written approval of the Committee.
(a) Homeowners should first consider all existing structures and landscaping before selecting a site for any proposed solar system.
(b) Preferred location of solar panels is rear-facing, roof-mounted array. Flush-mounted panels (i.e. – the plane of the array is parallel to the roof). A roof location facing a street will be allowed if documentation is provided from the solar contractor indicating this is the only feasible location for a solar array.
(c) The installation of all solar systems shall only be done by a licensed installer. Applications submitted to the ARC should include the following:
                1. A diagram “drawn to scale” by the licensed contractor installing the system showing where the system will be installed.
                2. Photos of the roof area where the array will be mounted.
                3. Material to be used and/or manufacturer’s description of the system, photos and/or pictures of the system and color of the system.
                4. Where possible, provide photos of similar existing systems as examples.
(d) Piping and electrical connections will be located directly under and/or within the perimeter of the panels, when possible, and placed as inconspicuously as possible when viewed from all angles.
(e) The highest point of a solar panel array will be lower than the ridge of the roof where it is attached. No solar panels shall extend beyond any portion of the roof line.
A variance to certain sections of these guidelines may be granted if compliance with these guidelines would significantly increase the purchase price of the solar system or significantly decrease its performance or efficiency. If a homeowner seeks a variance, they must provide a minimum of two bids depicting the cost of installation of the solar systems – one bid in compliance with these guidelines and a second bid depicting the desired alternative location, unless the variance represents the only feasible installation location. The ARC may require bids or estimates from a second contractor in order to make an informed decision.