HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-08-05 Planner Memorandum ,
• PC 3601 Thurston Avenue N, Suite 100
Anoka, MN 55303
Phone: 763.231.5840
Facsimile. 763.427.0520
TPQPPlanningCo.corn ENCLOSURE 2
MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: August 5, 2010
RE: Oak Park Heights — Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant —
Detailed Work Program and Background Information
TPC FILE: 236.06 — 10.01/10.02
The City of Oak Park Heights has been awarded by the State of Minnesota, Department
of Commerce, an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant. There are a number
• of tasks that must be completed as part of the project including the following:
1. Hold an Energy Fair
2. Perform Energy Audits of City Facilities and Operations
3. Create and Manage a Plan and Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
4. Retrofit some of the lighting at Brekke Park to solar.
5. Review and Revise the Comprehensive Plan from a Sustainability
Perspective
6. Review and Revise Municipal Ordinances to Adopt Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy Provisions
Of these tasks, the Planning Commission will be responsible for numbers five and six,
the review and update of the Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance and possibly the
Design Guidelines. A more detailed description of these tasks is as follows:
s
1
Scope of Services •
Comprehensive Plan:
The City will need to review and update the 2008 Comprehensive Plan to include policy
statements, plans and action strategies to promote energy efficiency, transportation
efficiency and the conservation of energy by the City, its residents, institutions and
businesses. Any existing plans or policies that in restrict energy conservation will be
identified and addressed. Specifically this will require the following:
1. Include a City statement relating to sustainability and energy efficiency
in the Community Goals Section of the Plan.
2. Update land use, transportation, community facilities and administration
sections to include goals and policies related to sustainability and energy
efficiency.
3. Update the implementation and action strategies to encourage energy
efficiency, transportation efficiency and the conservation of energy.
Zoninq Ordinance /Design Guidelines: •
The Zoning Ordinance will be reviewed and updated to enact the policy and plans of the
Comprehensive Plan as it relates to energy efficiency and conservation. The Ordinance
will address provisions that will encourage alternative energy systems that have a
positive impact on energy production and conservation while not having an adverse
impact on the community. Existing Zoning provisions that restrict energy efficiency and
conservation will be reviewed and revised. Although, the new Design Guidelines
address sustainability, they will be reviewed and updated to address in more detail
energy efficiency and conservation.
1. Consider the addition of energy efficiency, wind energy and solar
ordinances into a Zoning update.
2. Review the Zoning Ordinance and determine if any of the provisions
restrict energy efficiency and conservation.
3. Review the Design Guidelines to determine if the provisions are adequate
to promote sustainability and energy efficiency.
i
2
Work Program
July 2010: TPC to review project parameters, research energy
conservation plans and ordinances, develop detailed work
program.
August 12, 0210: Planning Commission meeting to discuss scope of project
and review Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance and
Design Guidelines for updates.
August 2010: TPC to draft Comprehensive Plan policy and plan revisions
and Zoning Ordinance /Design Guidelines provisions.
September 9, 2010: Planning Commission meeting to discuss draft
plans /regulations.
September, 2010: TPC to draft revisions based upon Planning Commission
discussion.
September 27, 2010: Joint City Council /Planning Commission meeting to discuss
Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance and Design
Guidelines updates.
October 14, 2010: Planning Commission Public Hearing on draft plan and
ordinance amendments.
October 25, 2010: City Council adopts revisions to Comprehensive Plan,
Zoning Ordinance and Design Guidelines.
Research Materials
City Staff has reviewed other Minnesota Cities and organizations for sustainable
ordinance language and Zoning Ordinance text. Woodbury has recently completed an
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance and has updated its Comprehensive Plan to
include sustainability and renewable energy provisions in its plan. Additionally, the
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency funded an update of Model Ordinances in 2008 for
sustainable development, wind energy and solar energy. These materials, along with
the others listed below will provide guidance as we draft policies, plans and regulations
for Oak Park Heights. If the Planning Commission has other examples that should be
reviewed, please share them with staff and the other members at the August 12, 2010
meeting.
•
3
A list of the materials attached to this memo is as follows:
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Energy Efficiency Ordinance
Solar Energy Standards
Model Wind Energy
City of Woodbury
Comprehensive Plan —Visioning Section
Comprehensive Plan — Natural Environment and Sustainabiltiy
Zoning — Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance
Excerpts from City Website
City of Burnsville
Excerpt from City Website
Sustainability Guide Plan — Introduction and Table of Contents
City of Excelsior
Zoning —Wind Energy Ordinance
City of Minnetonka
Comprehensive Plan — Policies on Green Technology
City of Lakeville
Zoning — Alternative Energy Systems
4
Summary and Conclusion
The Planning Commission should bring their Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance
and Design Guidelines documents to the August 12, 2010 meeting. Please contact
Julie Hultman at the City if you do not have these materials. If you have any
suggestions on other sources of information, or other cities that have done sustainability
plans or ordinances, please let me know. If you have any questions prior to the
meeting, please do not hesitate to contact me.
5
From Policy to Reality
Updated
Model Ordinances for Sustainable Development
2000
Environmental
Quality Board
2008
Minnesota Pollution
€, Control Agency
4 th
Funded by a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Sustainable Communities Grant
Primary Author:
Win Planning, Inc. I Brian Ross
Community
Resources I
Project Coordinator:
MIN Planning, Inc.
Community
Resources
INTRODUCTION
The State of Minnesota has set a long -term goal of reducing greenhouse gases by 80% over 2005 levels by the
year 2050. A number of cities in Minnesota have adopted similar policies, such as the Mayors Climate Protec-
tion agreement and participation in the ICLEI Cities for Climate Protection Program. As life -cycle energy use
attributable to buildings (including construction, energy use, and demolition) is almost 40% of total energy use
in the United States, these standards will require that the state and local governments create a new paradigm in
the way that they plan for growth. Relying on existing standards such as the State Energy Code, incentive -based
utility efficiency programs, and state renewable energy portfolios is insufficient to create the necessary transfor-
mation in development and redevelopment practices.
Local governments have a clear and well- defined interest in the energy efficiency and renewable energy use of
private sector buildings. The community's interest is defined in several ways:
• Achieving state and local climate protection goals
• Managing local infrastructure (electric and natural gas delivery systems) to allow for continued efficient
growth
• Enhancing the economic sustainability of local businesses and residences by reducing their exposure to
energy price volatility
• Improving local energy security
The good news is that creating a new paradigm in the way our communities grow does not require a different
set of tools than local government already uses. Rather, the transformation comes from using existing tools in
a new way. Performance standards, conditional use permits, rezoning procedures, and variances are common
practices in most Minnesota communities to shape how development occurs. Development incentives such as
tax increment financing (TIF), tax abatements, infrastructure cost sharing, and brownfield cleanup cost sharing
similarly are already used to guide development markets and practices.
Linking these tools to energy efficiency makes particular sense, because energy efficiency investments virtu-
ally always pay for themselves in reduced energy and maintenance costs (usually several times over) during the
lifetime of the building. Taking such steps is often called a "no- regrets" strategy; the policies that help meet
climate change and infrastructural goals are also justified on an economic basis. The `no- regrets' concept is that
even if the strategy turns out to be ineffective at protecting climate, improving energy security, or managing
infrastructure capacity, it still makes sense.
The following energy efficiency performance standard focuses on the no- regrets strategy of incorporating a
high level of energy efficient design, technologies, and practices into new and significantly renovated buildings.
The performance standard is required for some construction and advisory for others.
Incentive Example
The model ordinance includes an example, starting with Section V, of an energy efficiency density bonus for
commercial, office, or mixed use buildings. The example is based upon the City of Minneapolis' FAR energy ef-
ficiency bonus for the core downtown zoning district. The FAR example uses an electric utility efficiency design
program as a third -party certification process. The language used in the FAR bonus could be made mandatory
for certain types of development projects, such as when the City is a financial partner in the project, or it could
be incorporated into a PUD process where density is allowed to be increased over base zoning maximums in
exchange for community benefits.
Relationship to the State Energy Code
Many, but not all, communities in Minnesota enforce the State Building and Energy code in their community.
The State Energy Code provides a minimum threshold for energy efficiency that has been deemed to be applica-
ble throughout the State for broad categories of buildings. The Code, however, is only a minim standard and
does not include a number of design elements, technologies and practices that have quite attractive economic
paybacks and could substantially improve the sustainability of buildings. The State Code was set as a uniform
minimum /maximum standard, and communities are not individually allowed to either weaken or strengthen the
State standards.
Consequently the following energy efficiency performance standards are not a replacement for the State Energy
Code, but an enhancement that is applicable only when the community is a financial or regulatory partner in the
development process. Care should be taken to write the ordinance in a manner that clearly leaves the Energy
Code intact. Communities should also not depend on their building code officials to become enforcers of an
incentive -based sustainable building initiative or climate protection program.
I. Scope - This article applies to all new building construction and major renovation projects in Model
Community. Applying Performance Standards
The model ordinance applies the performance
standards to all buildings because (as defined
below) someprojects are required to use the stan-
Purpose -The purpose of this ordinance is to meet the following objectives:
dards while others are simply encouraged to use
A. Comprehensive Plan Goals - To meet the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and preserve the health, the standards. By applying the standards to all
buildings (as requirements or suggestions) the
safety and welfare of the Community's citizens and businesses. The energy efficiency standards
community recognites that buildings -pub#c and
specifically implement the following goals from the Comprehensive Plan: private - are community infrastructure. The com-
1. Goal —Assist local businesses to lower financial and regulatory risks and improve their economic, munity has a long -term interest in buildings that
community, and environmental sustainability serve present andfuture owners well by limiting
wasteful and inefficient use.
2. Goal — Work with the private sector to meet Model Community's greenhouse gas emission reduc-
tion goals.
Comprehensive Plan Goals
3. Goal — Encourage the use of local renewable energy resources, including appropriate applications
for wind, solar, and biomass energy. In order to require the use of energy effideng
standards outside the context o cig
(and f
4. Goal — Promote sustainable building design and management practices in residential, commercial, gressive than) the State Energy gy Code communi-
and industrial buildings to serve the needs of current and future generations. ties must create a clearpo§gfoundation in the
Comprehensive Plan or other formally adopted
B. Energy Efficiency - Encourage the use of energy efficient technologies and design in new and policy document. just as :Zoning districts must
remodeled buildings in Model Community; he consistent with the Comprehensive Plan land
use map supported by the Saab and policies of
C. Environmental Stewardship - Encourage environmental stewardship through reduction in non-
the Plan, energy effidengperformance standards
renewable fuel uses; should be knked explicitly to adopted policy. If
D. Economic Development - Encourage local investment in efficiency as a substitute for out-of-state the community does not have supponingpokg,
the community should either update the Compre-
resources. hensive Plan or condiect anotherplanningprocess
(such as an energy plan or a sustaihahik y plan)
to provide a policy foundation.
III. Energy Efficiency Performance Standards - The Model Community Energy Efficiency Standards
are hereby adopted by reference, and have the same force and effect as though fully set forth in the Model Efficiency Performance Standards
Community Code. The Performance Standards are the compilation of design and performance criteria Rather than create-technicalstandardsfivm
developed by engineering and design professionals and adopted as standards by the Council. scratch, -communhies should consider using one
A. Design Standards - The standards include specific design elements for new buildings and substantial of the many existing energy effideng andgreen
building standards. Fora description of stan-
renovations. dards used ih.M , innesota see the appendix: In
addition, several Minnesota utility companies B. Performance Criteria - The standards include performance criteria for building systems.
have created energy efficiency design programs C. Benchmarking - The standards set protocols for benchmarking and evaluating means of meeting
with standards and designated measurement performance criteria.
protocols
D. Verification Required - The standards identify approved verification methods during and after
construction.
IV. Applicability of Energy Performance Standards - Model Community encourages all new building
construction and major renovations to meet the Energy Efficiency Performance Standards.
Applicability Considerations
The paints of applicability described in this A. Standards Required - The following types of buildings and projects are required to meet the Energy
model ordinance provide examples for bow the Efficiency Performance Standards:
standards can be k'nked to existing regulatory 1. Any building constructed with the financial assistance of Model Community including TIF,
processes. Some communities may have different brownfield cleanup, and use of Model Community's bonding authority.
programs or approval processes that could al o
provide points of influence. Some communities 2. Residential, commercial, and institutional buildings that are part of a PUD.
may wish to limit the applicability to cases when 3. Rezonings that result in significantly increased loads on electric or gas infrastructure.
the community is a finandal partner in the de-
(su A. 9) or when the project 4. New buildings or significant modifications of existing buildings requiring a conditional use per -
velopmmeets ent ent (subs ecLiotion n and as of a sufficient mit that increase load or are located in an area in which electric or gas infrastructure has limited
size to increase loads on local i fiurtructure. capacity to allow for fixture development.
B. Standards Encouraged - For buildings not covered under subsections 1 — 4, Model Community
encourages compliance with the standards, but does not require compliance. No penalty or violation
shall be assessed for failing to comply with the Standards, nor shall any Model Community official
deny a permit or petition on the basis of compliance with the Standards.
Floor to Area (FAR) Premiums
V. Floor Area Ratio Premiums - The following floor area ratio (FAR) premiums shall be available as
As an example of how land use incentives can specified in Table = Maximum Floor Area Ration Premiums in all zoning districts districts where
be used to encourage, Section V describes a FARs are used to guide density, subject to the provisions of this article and provided all other require -
density bonus for energy efficiency in commercial ments of this zoning ordinance are met:
and office buildings. This example is adapted
from one of the first energy efficiency density A. High Performance Buildings Eligible for FAR Bonus - High performance buildings, as defined
bonuses in the nation, created for the City of
below, are eligible for up to two (2) FAR bonus in some zoning districts.
Minneapolis.
. . . ... .......
1. Submission of a High Performance Building Plan - The applicant shall submit a High Per-
formance Building plan that includes all information to demonstrate, to the satisfaction of Model
Community review staff, a minimum. of 35 percent increase in overall building energy efficiency
as compared to the Minnesota Energy Code. The demonstration shall include an reports, model-
ing, and approval processes described in 3.c, d, and e below. Full participation and compliance
with the Energy Design Assistance program (or most recent Department of Commerce approved Utility Program as Energy Standard
version) offered by Xcel Energy or similar Department of Commerce approved Conservation As an alternative to usin a tbirdpany-cre-
Improvement Program offered by any other energy provider shall be sufficient documentation ated certification program such as LEED or
provided the program uses the modeling and approval processes described in c, d, and e below. Green Communities, severalMinnexotaudNo
Documentation of the 35 percent increase in overall building efficiency, third party verification or companies have created energy effideng, aesi programs with standards and designated me
n
commissioning as described below, and Department of Commerce program approval are neces-
surementprotoco1r. The FAR bonus section is
sary to waive the requirements of 3.c, d, and e. The High Performance Building Plan shall also designed to be consistent with the protocols in the
include specific provisions for mitigating non-compliance with the designated energy efficiency ufiktyprqgram, and to use mjiio approval as a
performance standard sufficient to generate an equivalent reduction of CO2 and other pollutants, third party technical review
and other any other provisions necessary to demonstrate compliance with this section.
2. Energy Efficiency Defined - Energy efficiency is to be defined by the use of purchased (gener-
ated or refined at a separate site) or on-site-generated fuels consumed per square foot of occu-
pied space. Calculations can take into account the use of the following-.
a. on-site generated renewable energy, including photovoltaic, wind, or hydro generation of On-Site Renewable Energy
electricity; passive solar systems using solar heat or light; geothermal source; or other use of Care must be taken when calculating the impact
renewable fuels displacing the use of non-renewable fuels in the building's systems. of revewabk�energy systems onoveraLlbuilding
b. efficiency of all building mechanical systems that burn, convert, or transform the energy in performance. Manufacturer. ratings or-even
natural gas, electricity, oil, coal, steam, or purchased heat or cold in any form. third part' certification of equoment.d9es not
mean'that rated per
c. Calculations shall not include manufacturing or mechanical processes for which the State of actmalper formame I inanslat, into
Minnesota has not set a minimum standard. forman-ne. A shaded solarpaneZ or a
goothermabbaxed beat-pump -kcated'in inappro-
3. Energy Efficiency Measured - Energy efficiency shall be measured consistent with the follow- Piate soils will notperform at rated *ad*.
ing methodology: ln.urban- kwfions, wind energy is ffamioux4
poor unkss the turbine: is considerably higher
a. Identify and describe energy using systems covered by the State Energy Code, including heat- than surroundin buildings and trees, and no
ing, cooling, fans and pumps, lighting, equipment plug loads, and domestic hot water. technology currently odsts that con meaningI
b. Identify and describe the base operating assumptions for the project, including hours of use, capture low speed turbulint ond
temperature set-points, supply/exhaust/ventilation air flow, interior humidity deadband, cool-
ing and heating distribution and equipment types, and all other base operating assumptions
necessary to calculate energy use and energy savings consistent with DOE2. 1 E standards or
current equivalent.
!III INI
1 HIM II
I
AM NMI
c. Identify and describe the energy- saving strategies to be incorporated in the design, the strategy - improved pa-
rameters exceeding the Minnesota Energy Code, and the location within the building where each strategy will be
implemented.
d. Provide a report outlining energy savings model estimates for each energy - saving strategy as compared to the
code compliant design for both energy consumption (Btus, kWhs, and electric demand in KVV) and energy costs
using current energy rates. Energy savings estimates are to be determined using the D0E2.1E annual hourly
thermal and daylighting simulation model (or most recent substitute) utilizing a Minneapolis TMY2 weather file
(or most recent substitute). A Code compliant model will be established set to the minimum standards identi-
fied in the current Minnesota State Energy Code. Isolated strategy savings will be estimated by simulating each
strategy separately and then by subtracting the annual results from the code compliant model results.
e. Estimate the integrated energy savings impact of a ll strategies incorporated into the design by simulating all
strategies in one model and comparing the results to the Code compliant model. The savings results of this
model shall use at least 35% less energy to operate than the code compliant model.
4. 90% CD Plan - Provide a set of plans to Model Community at 90% Construction Document (CD) completion for
review of energy savings strategies identified. Model Community will issue a CD review report (within three weeks
of receipt of the drawings) to identify if all strategies and related parameters have been adequately incorporated into
the design documents.
5. Verification - At the time of building occupancy Model Community will, by special inspector, as described in the
Building Code, conduct an onsite verification that all designed energy savings strategies are installed and functioning
as per design specification, and will issue a report of its findings. The applicant may, as an alternative to Model Com-
munity's special inspector, submit a third party Commissioning report showing all energy systems and
energy efficiency measures to be installed and functioning according to design specifications. The Corn
Premium missioning process shall be consistent with ASHRAE Guideline 1.1 (HVAC &R Technical Requirements
DMU TOD HComm for the Commissioning Process) or the most recent version. Commissioning of non -HVAC systems
Type shall use the process described in ASHRAE 0 -2005, or subsequent ASHRAE variations for non -HVAC
Energy
Efficiency 1 1 1 equipment.
@ 35% 6. Commissioning Failure - Energy - saving strategies that do not perform to specification or are missing
Energy must be brought to design specification or installed within 90 days of Model Community's verification
Efficiency 2 2 2 report or submittal to Model Community of a third party Commissioning report by a licensed engineer
(5 above).
@ 45%
B. Limitations on Premiums - A zoning lot shall not quality for more than two (2) energy efficiency premiums.
:' ..w.
40 4
Appendix
US Green Building Council LEED Standards - LEED is a third -party certification system that provides guidance about
how to construct sustainable buildings and neighborhoods to builders, designers, developers, government officials, and others
involved in designing and constructing the built environment. LEED is based on a point system in which a project must score a
certain number of points to be eligible for certification and higher point scores receive a higher level of certification. LEED has
four levels: certified, silver, gold and platinum.
What does this standard apply to?
Any public or privately owned building can be certified by the US Green Building Council according to their LEED standards. Dif-
ferent types of projects are rated under the following rating systems:
• New Construction — For new construction or major renovation of commercial and institutional buildings.
• Existing Buildings — Provides a benchmark for owners and operators to measure operations improvements and maintenance.
• Commercial Interiors — Provides a benchmark for tenant improvements.
• Core and Shell — Designed to be complementary to the Commercial Interiors rating system. Provides green criteria for devel-
opers, owners and tenants.
• Schools —Addresses the unique design requirements of K -12 schools.
• Retail — Addresses the specific needs of retail spaces.
• Healthcare — Promotes sustainable planning, design and construction for healthcare facilities.
• Homes — Promotes the design and construction of green homes.
• Neighborhood Development — Integrates the principles of smart growth, urbanism, and green building to provide guidance
on neighborhood design.
How do you certify a project?
The construction team must register their project with the U.S. Green Building Council ( USGBC) at the beginning of the design
process and specify which rating system their project will be rated under. In addition to submitting drawings, photos, and other
construction documents, the team must include a description of which LEED credits the team seeks and how they will achieve each
credit. The USGBC will review the application and determine whether the credits should be approved or not. If credits are denied,
the applicant may resubmit additional supporting materials for a second review of the application.
Cost and benefits of certification - The cost of certification varies depending on the size of the project and the type of cer-
tification, ranging from $500 to $20,000. Certification may be seen as an additional construction cost, but recent studies have
IC 111 WMA61,
demonstrated significant financial benefits of LEED certification. A study by the Costar Group found that LEED buildings tend
to command higher rents, up to $11.24 more per square foot over non -LEED buildings'. When sold, LEED certified buildings
command an average of $171 more per square foot as compared to a non -LEED building The CoStar Group's study compared
more than 1,300 LEED and Energy Star certified buildings to non - certified buildings of similar size, type, location and age.
PDF powerpoint of CoStar study: htq2.L
Contact Information:
U.S. Green Building Council
1800 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 1- 800 - 795 -1747
Fax: 202-828-5110
wwwusgbc_org
Minnesota Green Communities - Minnesota Green Communities is a partnership between the Greater Minnesota Housing
Fund, the Family Housing Fund, and Enterprise Community Partners. This partnership has supported the creation of affordable,
energy- efficient housing that is healthy for people and the environment.
Enterprise Community Partners is a national nonprofit that provides loans, grants and information to help build affordable housing.
As part of its Green Communities initiative, Enterprise has made a 5 -year commitment to assist in the creation of more than 8,500
green homes nationwide for low income people and to make sustainable development the mainstream in the affordable housing
industry. By 2009, Enterprise will have committed $550 million in Green Grants, financing and equity investments.
Enterprise has developed a set of green building standards that projects must conform to in order to receive Green Communities
funding. The Green Communities criteria are aligned with LEED standards, but uniquely focused on affordable housing. Min-
nesota Green Communities and Minnesota Housing have negotiated changes to the national criteria to make them appropriate for
Minnesota. In order to qualify for funding from Enterprise or Minnesota Green Communities, a project must meet certain manda-
tory criteria and also receive 30 -35 optional criteria points. Minimum Green Communities criteria that must be met for funding
include:
' Costar Group. Available at: http: / /www.costar.com/ news / Article. aspx? id= D968FlEODCF73712BO3AO99EOE99C679
2 Ibid
401
N' 100',w -o", -6 NNVNNWA����
• 0 ,
4.
• Integrated Design
• Site, Location and Neighborhood Fabric
• Site Improvements
• Water Conservation
• Energy Efficiency
• Materials Beneficial to the Environment
• Healthy Living Environment
• Operations and Maintenance
While Enterprise's five year commitment is almost over, many affordable housing projects within Minnesota will continue to be built
according to the Minnesota Green Communities building standards. Minnesota Housing, the state's affordable housing bank, has
decided to require all new construction projects receiving financing from the bank to conform to the Minnesota Overlay to the na-
tional Green Communities building standards starting with their Fall 2007 funding round. The City of St. Paul has also decided to
require all affordable housing projects that receive funding from the city to conform to the Minnesota Green Communities criteria,
and the City of Minneapolis is considering the creation of a similar policy.
Enterprise is considering renewing their commitment to Green Communities after 2009 but has not finalized their plans.
What does this standard apply to?
The Minnesota Green Communities criteria provide guidance for the construction of affordable housing.
Why is this standard uniquely suited to affordable housing?
Energy efficiency is particularly important for affordable housing units. The cost of heating and cooling a home can account for
a large budget portion for an individual or family with limited income. Reducing utility costs, as accomplished through the Green
Communities criteria, dramatically improves the affordability of a house or apartment.
The Green Communities standard requires project to be located near mass transit services and within walkable neighborhoods, in
addition to a number of other location requirements. Residents of affordable housing units are far more likely to be transit depen-
dant than the general population — enabling low- income households to limit or eliminate dependence on automobiles can be a huge
step to economic sustainability.
The standard includes indoor environmental quality standards. Affordable housing is frequently affordable due to location near
polluting industry, busy highways, or other environmental risks. Affordable housing is also much more likely to use inexpensive and
aft" 0 -. -
. . _ � ,.�. .. �..,.,.. ,.
ultimately unhealthy building materials such as vinyl, formaldehyde -laced particle wood and other materials that create poor indoor
air quality. The Green Communities standards recognize that sustaining the health of people in low - income households is a critical
component of community sustainability.
How are projects certified to ensure they meet Minnesota Green Communities standards?
The Minnesota Green Communities criteria require projects to meet specific Energy Star ratings or HERS (Home Energy Rating
System) ratings, which are third party certified. Also, the architect on the project must certify that the project has been built to
Green Communities criteria.
A copy of the National Green Communities Criteria can be requested at:
h p: / / www.gLc nco m, iti co lin .oig /tools /criteria /index,asp
Minnesota's changes to the national criteria are available at:
hhi : / /wwwmngreenco mu i ie .org4pubhcations/ download /Minnesota0veraay2007- MF.pddf
Contact Information:
Janne Flisrand
Program Coordinator
c/o Greater Minnesota Housing Fund
332 Minnesota St., Suite 1310 -East
St. Paul, MN 55101
Cell Phone: 612 - 816 -2115
Telephone: 651 - 221 -1997, ext. 119
Toll-Free: 800 - 277 -2258, ext. 119
Fax: 651 - 221 -1904
Email: janne@mngreencommunities.org
Energy Star Buildings - Energy Star is the EPA's (Environmental Protection Agency) rating system for homes and buildings
as well as home appliances and other products. Just like Energy Star rated appliances, buildings that have received the Energy Star
rating have been tested and inspected to ensure that they meet high energy efficiency standards.
What does this standard apply to?
The EPA has Energy Star standards specific to new homes, commercial buildings and industrial facilities. Unlike LEED, Green
Communities and the Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines, Energy Star standards apply primarily to energy efficiency and do
not address other sustainability issues such as building materials, waste reduction, water conservation, and sustainable land develop -..0 .
ment practices.
Home - Energy Star homes are 15% more energy efficient that homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (a basic
building code for one- and two-family dwellings). They are typically 20-30% more efficient that standard homes. Energy Star
homes are inspected and tested by independent Home Energy Raters to ensure that they meet the EPA's guidelines. Energy star
homes typically have the following features:
• An efficient building envelope that is properly sealed and that has effective levels of insulation.
• Efficient air distribution systems, with fully sealed and insulated air ducts.
• Efficient heating and cooling equipment.
• Energy Star light fixtures.
• Energy Star appliances.
Commercial and Industrial Buildings - The Energy Star rating system for commercial and industrial buildings is based on a point
system with possible scores ranging from 1 to 100. Facilities that earn a score of 75 or higher can receive the Energy Star. These
facilities typically use 35% less energy than similar buildings. Types of industrial facilities that can be certified include:
• wet corn mills • pordand cement plants
• auto manufacturers • petroleum refineries
Types of commercial facilities that can be certified include: offices, bank branches, financial centers, retailers, courthouses, hospitals,
hotels, K -12 schools, medical offices, supermarkets, dormitories, and warehouses.
How are projects certified to ensure they meet Energy Star standards?
Home - During the construction process, an Energy Star home energy rater helps the builder choose energy-efficient features. The
rater might use computer software to model the amount of energy the building will use based on the construction plans or the rater
may simply recommend construction techniques that have been tried and tested in the specific climate of the home. Once the home
is constructed, the energy rater will conduct on-site inspections. In addition to visual inspecting the construction, the rater usually
performs a blower door test to assess the leakiness of the home and a duct blaster test to assess the leakiness of the duct system.
Commercial and Industrial Buildings - Building owners who wish to certify their buildings must enter a variety of information
about their building into an application form to determine whether their building will receive the required 75 points. A professional
engineer must validate that the building information is correct, and then the application is mailed to Energy Star for review. If the
building does not receive the 75 points initially, Energy Star as a set of guidelines that building owners can use to improve the ef-
ficiency of the buildings and industrial processes.
Costs and benefits of certification?
Energy Star rating brings a number of benefits. Most obvious is the financial savings due to the building's efficiency. In term
of marketing, Energy Star homes and buildings can display the Energy Star label in a prominent location to indicate the owner's
environmental values and the quality of the construction. Commercial and industrial buildings that have received the Energy Star
rating are recognized publicly each year when the EPA publishes a list of all the buildings that have earned the Energy Star. With
the rising cost of fuel, many buyers are looking for assurance that their new home or building will be energy efficient.
For more information on Energy Star ratings visit: ham: / /www.energystar.gov/
Contact Information:
wwwenergystargo v
The Minnesota Legislature required the Departments of Administration and Commerce, with the assistance of other .
agencies, to develop sustainable building design guidelines for all new state buildings by January 15, 2003. According to
the legislation, the guidelines must:
• Exceed existing energy code by at least 30 percent
• Achieve lowest possible lifetime costs for new buildings
• Encourage continual energy conservation improvements in new buildings
• Ensure good indoor air quality
• Create and maintain a healthy environment
• Facilitate productivity improvements
• Specify ways to reduce material costs
• Consider the long -term operating costs of the building including the use of renewable energy sources and distrib-
uted electric energy generation that uses a renewable source of natural gas or a fuel that is as clean or cleaner than
natural gas."
Source: tj�/ wwwms bg.Lmn.edu /o - ,rPnri.elvhtm1
M."PON. among, gym- =-
�Jlrciir�ocn
Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines
The guidelines are organized around four major aspects of building design: 1) Performance Management; 2) Site and Water; 3)
Indoor Environmental Quality 4) Materials and Waste.
The guidelines do not address neighborhood design issues, unlike LEED ND and the Green Communities Criteria.
What does this standard apply to?
All buildings funding entirely or in part by state bond monies after January 15, 2004 must conform to the guidelines. In general, the
guidelines are well suited to institutional buildings and were designed specifically for government buildings in Minnesota.
Why is this standard uniquely suited to government buildings?
One of the goals of the guidelines is to create buildings that have low long-term maintenance and operation costs. This is especially
advantageous for government and institutional buildings which typically will be owned and operated by the same entity for a long
period of time. Governments will have the opportunity to reap significant costs savings over the life of the building.
How can you certify a project?
Local governments and state agencies self-certify their projects. The guidelines include a system for documenting the desi gn and
construction process and the performance of the building once it is occupied to insure that buildings perform to a high standard.
The government entity involved must archive this documentation and submit a copy of it to the Center for Sustainable Building
Research at the University of Minnesota so that the Center can track the performance of buildings constructed according to the
guidelines.
Contact Information:
Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR)
Richard Strong, Research Fellow
1425 University Avenue SE, Suite 115
Minneapolis, MN 55455
voice: 612-624-7327
fax: 612.626.7424
stron08l@umn.edu
www.csbr.uma&dU
Minnesota GreenStar
MN GreenStar is a non -profit organization that educates homeowners, builders and remodelers, and certifies green buildings and
remodeling residential projects. MN GreenStar has developed its own green building standard for residential construction and
remodeling and provides third -party certification for homes that are built according to their standard.
What does this standard apply to?
The GreenStar building standard was designed specifically for the Minnesotan climate and to conform to the Minnesota Building
Code. Unlike the Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines, GreenStar is focused on residential construction and remodeling. The
standard is a point system based around five categories: energy efficiency, resource efficiency, water conservation, indoor environ-
mental quality, and site and community. In order to be certified, a project must meet minimum standards in each category. Projects
can be certified at three different levels, bronze, silver or gold, depending on how many points are earned. GreenStar's standards for
new residential construction are integrated with the Energy Star rating system and Energy Efficient Home federal tax credit.
How do you certify a project?
The MN GreenStar certification process begins with an eight -hour orientation training for homeowners, builders, and remodel -
ers. After the training session, participants fill out an application for certification and proceed with the design process. The design
process involves a creating a number of plans including a construction plan, a waste management plan, an erosion control plan, a
landscape plan, and energy modeling. MN GreenStar reviews these plans and identifies necessary modifications. Once the plans
have been approved, construction proceeds. During the construction process, GreenStar arranges for third -party inspectors to
verify that construction conforms to the plans and GreenStar standards. After construction is completed, GreenStar reviews final
project documentation and certifies the project at the appropriate level, either bronze, silver or gold.
Costs and benefits of certification:
A number of benefits are associated with MN GreenStar certified homes. MN GreenStar homes are eligible for energy efficient
mortgages and federal energy efficient home tax credit. MN GreenStar certification can increase the value of a home for resale,
and energy and resource efficient design results in lower cost of living for MN GreenStar homes. Most importantly, MN GreenStar
homes provide a healthy indoor environment and cause minim environmental impact.
The MN GreenStar orientation training cost approximately $350. Depending on the type of project, certification costs between
$100 - $200 plus $.10 per square foot.
Contact Information: Minnesota GreenStar
280121 st Avenue South Suite 110, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Phone: (612) 278 -7102, Fax: (612) 278 - 7101, info @mngreenstar.org, wwwmngreenstar.org
;5 O,... " 17 STANDARDS
From Policy to Reality
Updated
Model Ordinances for Sustainable Development
2000
' Environmental
Quality Board
2008
Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency
F.L..
A
Funded by a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Sustainable Communities Grant
Primary Author:
Mffl Planning, Inc. Brian Ross
Community
Resources
Project Coordinator:
W[fl Planning, Inc.
Community
Resources
INTRODUCTION
Model Solar Energy Standards
In spite of its cold and dark reputation, Minnesota has good solar potential, as good as Houston, Texas and
many parts of Florida. As solar energy system components have become more efficient and less costly an in- This ordinance is nce created edprimaror o the model
solar energy ordinance for Solar Min -
creasing number of solar energy installations have been installed in Minnesota. Since 2005, the interest in solar nesota, under a Million SolarRoofsgrantfrom
energy has rapidly increased such that many communities have had to address solar installations as a land use the U.S. Department of Energy.
issue. Solar energy components continue to improve in efficiency and decline in price, and "cost parity" with
some retail electric and natural gas costs is likely within the next 8 to 10 years.
But solar energy is much more than an alternative (or supplement) to utility power. Solar energy has become a
symbol of energy self - sufficiency and environmental sustainability. The growth in solar installations is attribut-
able more to the non - economic benefits than as an economic substitute for the electric utility. Households and
businesses wanting to reduce their carbon footprint see solar energy as a strong complement to energy effi-
ciency. Volatility in natural gas prices makes free solar fuel look attractive as a price hedge.
Solar energy issues
Local governments will need to address solar energy installations in their development regulation in the near
future. Three primary issues tie solar energy to development regulations:
1) Climate protection goals. Local governments that have committed to meeting climate protection goals can meet
some of their commitment by removing regulatory barriers to solar energy and incorporating low or no -cost
incentives in development regulations to spur solar investment.
2) Nuisance and safety considerations. Solar systems have few nuisances, but visual impacts and safety concerns
by neighbors sometimes create opposition to solar installations. Good design and attention to aesthetics
can answer most concerns. But the misperception that solar systems are ugly and unsafe, rooted in poorly
designed 1970s solar installations, have resulted in unnecessary regulation or outright prohibitions.
3) Solar access considerations. In fully built -out communities and large lot suburban or exurban areas, solar access
is of limited concern. Solar access is, however, an important consideration in zoning districts that allow tall
buildings or in developing communities where subdivisions should incorporate solar access provisions.
4 �1, " mw M ., ��'M:„ " ��n, M,
Components of a solar standards ordinance
Solar energy standards should consider the following elements:
• Remove regulatory barriers and create a clear regulatory path to approving solar energy systems.
• Limit aesthetic objections by setting reasonable design standards for solar energy in urban neighborhoods,
historic districts, and new subdivisions.
• Address solar access issues in subdivisions and zoning districts that allow taller buildings on smaller (urban
density) lots.
• Encourage solar -ready subdivision and building design.
• Incorporate regulatory incentives that can spur private- sector solar investment.
Urban and Rural Communities
The model ordinance language addresses concerns that are primarily in cities rather than counties or townships.
Issues of solar access and nuisances associated with solar systems are generally of little consequence outside
urban density areas, where lot sizes are almost always greater than one acre. Counties and townships can address
most barriers by simply stating in their development regulations that solar systems are an allowed accessory use
in all districts. Aesthetic issues or solar access issues might come into play in lakeshore areas or conservation
development areas, where homes are closer together or protected trees might limit solar access. The incentive
potion of the model ordinance can also be applied in rural areas. However, most of the language in this model
ordinance is directed to situations seen in cities.
MW Mwon OMMIMMONNOZ=�
s�'
Y.
71
I. Scope - This article applies to all solar energy installations in Model Community.
II. Purpose - Model Community has adopted this regulation for the following purposes:
A. Comprehensive Plan Goals - To meet the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and preserve the health, Comprebensive Plan Goals
safety and welfare of the Community's citizens by promote the safe, effective and efficient use of ac-
tive solar energy systems installed to reduce the on-site consumption of fossil fuels or utility-supplied Tyin the solar ener ordinance to Comprehen-
electric energy. The following solar energy standards specifically implement the following goals from sive Plan goals irparticular:4 important when
the Comprehensive Plan: the solar standards include regulatory incentives
or solar requirements as described in the last
1. Goal — Encourage the use of local renewable energy resources, including appropriate applications section of this ordinance. Y the Comprehensive
for wind, solar, and biomass energy. Plan does not include goaLr that could address
2. Goal — Promote sustainable building design and management practices in residential, commercial, solar eneigyand the community does not have
and industrial buildings to serve the needs of current and future generations. some of pokovjoundafionjor encouragingpri-
Pate investment in solar energy (such as climate
3. Goal — Assist local businesses to lower financial and regulatory risks and improve their economic, protection goals) the community should consider
community, and environmental sustainability. creating a local energy plan.
4. Goal — Efficiently invest in and manage public infrastructure systems to support development
and growth.
B. Climate Change Goals - As a signatory of the Cool Cities program, Model Community has comrrut- Climate Protection Strategies
red to reducing carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy is an abundant, renewable,
and nonpolluting energy resource and that its conversion to electricity or heat will reduce our depen- Solar energy should be part of every commu-
dence on nonrenewable energy resources and decrease the air and water pollution that results from ni 'sponfvkojor addressing climate change or
the use of conventional energy sources. energy: transitions (also known as '�eak oil')
considerations. I Acalgovernments that arepar-
C. Infrastructure - Distributed solar photovoltaic systems will enhance the reliability and power ficoaling in the Cities, br Climate Protection
quality of the power grid and make more efficient use of Model Community's electric distribution program, Mayors Climate Protection signato-
infrastructure. ties, or the Cool Cities / Cool Counties program
can use private solar investment as a vehicle for
D. Local Resource - Solar energy is an underused local energy resource and encouraging the use of meetinggoals. Additional community benefits
solar energy will diversify the community's energy supply portfolio and exposure to fiscal risks associ- that improve sustainabi,60 are also spelled out
ated with fossil fuels. in the findings section.
E. Improve Competitive Markets - Solar energy systems offer additional energy choice to consumers
and will improve competition in the electricity and natural gas supply market.
i O Oft'
W
W
III. Definitions
Active Solar System - A solar energy system that transforms solar energy into another form of
energy or transfers heat from a collector to another medium using mechanical, electrical, or chemical
means.
Building - integrated Solar Systems - An active solar system that is an integral part of a principal or
accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or substituting for an architec-
tural or structural component of the building. Building- integrated systems include but are not limited
to photovoltaic or hot water solar systems that are contained within roofing materials, windows,
skylights, and awnings.
Grid- intertie Solar System - A photovoltaic solar system that is connected to an electric circuit
served by an electric utility company.
Solar Definitions
Not all these terms are used in this model Off -grid Solar System - A photovoltaic solar system in which the circuits energized by the solar
ordinance, nor is this a complete list of solar system are not electrically connected in any way to electric circuits that are served by an electric utility
definitions. As a community develops its own company.
design standards forsolar technology, many of Passive Solar System - A solar energy system that captures solar light or heat without transforming
the concepts defined here may be helpful in meet- it to another form of energy or transferring the energy via a heat exchanger.
ing localgoalr. For instance, solar daylighting
devices may change the exterior appearance of Photovoltaic System - An active solar energy system that converts solar energy directly into
the building, and the community may choose to electricity.
di tinguish between these devices and other archi-
tectural changes. Renewable Energy Easement, Solar Energy Easement - An easement that limits the height or
location, or both, of permissible development on the burdened land in terms of a structure or vegeta-
tion, or both, for the purpose of providing access for the benefited land to wind or sunlight passing
over the burdened land.
Renewable Energy System - A solar energy or wind energy system. Renewable energy systems do
not include passive systems that serve a dual function, such as a greenhouse or window
Roof Pitch - The final exterior slope of a building roof calculated by the rise over the run, typically
but not exclusively expressed in twelfths such as 3/12, 9/12, 12/12.
Solar Access - A view of the sun, from any point on the collector surface, that is not obscured by
any vegetation, building, or object located on parcels of land other than the parcel upon which the
solar collector is located, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM Standard time on any day of
the year.
Solar Collector - A device, structure or a part of a device or structure for which the primary purpose
is to transform solar radiant energy into thermal, mechanical, chemical, or electrical energy.
Solar Collector Surface - Any part of a solar collector that absorbs solar energy for use in the
collector's energy transformation process. Collector surface does not include frames, supports and
mounting hardware.
Solar Daylighting - A device specifically designed to capture and redirect the visible portion of the
solar spectrum, while controlling the infrared portion, for use in illuminating interior building spaces
in lieu of artificial lighting.
Solar Energy - Radiant energy received from the sun that can be collected in the form of heat or
light by a solar collector.
Solar Energy Device - A system or series of mechanisms designed primarily to provide heating, to
provide cooling, to produce electrical power, to produce mechanical power, to provide solar daylight -
ing or to provide any combination of the foregoing by means of collecting and transferring solar
generated energy into such uses either by active or passive means. Such systems may also have the
capability of storing such energy for future utilization. Passive solar systems shall clearly be designed
as a solar energy device such as a trombe wall and not merely a part of a normal structure such as a
window
Solar Energy System - A device or structural design feature, a substantial purpose of which is to
provide daylight for interior lighting or provide for the collection, storage and distribution of solar
energy for space heating or cooling, electricity generating, or water heating.
Solar Heat Exchanger - A component of a solar energy device that is used to transfer heat from
one substance to another, either liquid or gas.
Solar Hot Water System - A system that includes a solar collector and a heat exchanger that heats or
preheats water for building heating systems or other hot water needs, including residential domestic
hot water and hot water for commercial processes.
Solar Mounting Devices - Devices that allow the mounting of a solar collector onto a roof surface
or the ground.
Solar Storage Unit - A component of a solar energy device that is used to store solar generated
electricity or heat for later use.
r
IV. Permitted Accessory Use - Active solar energy systems shall be allowed as an accessory use in all
zoning classifications where structures of any sort are allowed, subject to certain requirements as set forth
below:
Height- Ground or Pole Mounted A. Height - Active solar systems must meet the following height requirements:
This ordinance sets a 15 foot height limit, as- 1. Building- or roof- mounted solar systems shall not exceed the maximum allowed height in any
suming a standard that is higher than typical zoning district. For purposes for height measurement, solar systems other than building- integrat-
height limits for accessory structures, but well ed systems shall be considered to be mechanical devices and are restricted consistent with other
lower than the principal structure. Communities building- mounted mechanical devices.
may want to consider allowing taller systems if
iet back farther, for instance, an extra foot of 2. Ground- or pole- mounted solar systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height when oriented at
height for every additional two feet of setback. maximum tilt.
Communities may also consider allowing higher
systems if the size of the panel is less than al- B. Set -back - Active solar systems must meet the accessory structure setback for the zoning district and
lowed, for instance, an additional foot of height primary land use associated with the lot on which the system is located.
for every 10 sq. ft of reduction of surface area. 1. Roof - mounted Solar Systems - In addition to the building setback, the collector surface and
mounting devices for roof - mounted solar systems shall not extend beyond the exterior perimeter
of the building on which the system is mounted or built. Exterior piping for solar hot water
Building Integrated PV systems shall be allowed to extend beyond the perimeter of the building on a side yard exposure.
2. Ground- mounted Solar Systems - Ground - mounted solar energy systems may not extend into
Building integrated solar systems can include the side -yard or rear setback when oriented at minimum design tilt.
solar systems built into roofing (existing technol-
ogy includes both solar shingles and solar roofing C. Visibility - Active solar systems shall be designed to blend into the architecture of the building or
tiles), into awnings, skylights, and walls. This be screened from routine view from public right -of -ways other than alleys. The color of the solar
ordinance only addresses building integrated collector is not required to be consistent with other roofing materials except in those instances when a
PV, but examples of building integrated solar conditional use permit is required consistent with the provisions of this ordinance.
thermal applications may also be available.
1. Building Integrated Photovoltaic Systems - Building integrated photovoltaic solar systems
shall be allowed regardless of visibility, provided the building component in which the system is
Mounted Solar Systems integrated meets all required setback, land use or performance standards for the district in which
This ordinance uses a threshold of 5% steeper the building is located.
than finished roof pitch to require a conditional 2. Solar Systems with Mounting Devices - Solar systems using roof mounting devices or ground -
use permit. Mounted systems that have a pitch mount solar systems shall not be restricted if the system is not visible from the closest edge of
steeper than the finished roof pitch change the any public right -of -way other than an alley. Roof -mount systems that are visible from the nearest
appearance of the roof, and are exposed to ad- edge of the street frontage right -of -way shall not have a highest finished pitch more than five (5)
ditional safety considerations in regard to the
wind had on structural roof components percent steeper than the roof pitch on which the system is mounted, and shall be no higher than
aS c
ten (10) inches above the roof. Systems with a pitch more than five percent greater than the finished roof pitch must
acquire a conditional use permit.
3. Coverage - Roof or building mounted solar systems, excluding building- integrated systems, shall not cover more
than 80% of the south - facing or flat roof upon which the panels are mounted, and shall be set back from the roof
edge by a minimum of one (1) foot. The surface area of pole or ground mount systems shall not exceed half the
building footprint of the principal structure.
4. Historic Buildings - Solar systems on buildings within
designated historic districts or on locally designated historic
buildings will require a conditional use permit, as provided
in this ordinance. Design Guidelines for Solar Roofs
Pitched Roof
D. Approved Solar Components - Electric solar system compo-
nents must have a UL listing.
E. Plan Approval Required - All solar systems shall require ad-
ministrative plan approval by Model Community zoning official.
1. Plan Applications - Plan applications for solar systems „ d
shall be accompanied by to -scale horizontal and vertical
(elevation) drawings. The drawings must show the loca-
tion of the system on the building or on the property for a £ &°
ground -mount system, including the property lines.
a. Pitched Roof Mounted Solar Systems - For all
roof - mounted systems other than a flat roof the eleva-
Design Guidelines for Solar Roofs
tion must show the highest finished slope of the solar Flat Roof
collector and the slope of the finished roof surface on
which it is mounted.
b. Flat Roof Mounted Solar Systems - For flat roof
applications a drawing shall be submitted showing the
distance to the roof edge and any parapets on the build-
ing and shall identify the height of the building on the
street frontage side, the shortest distance of the system o ® O
from the street frontage edge of the building, and the
highest finished height of the solar collector above the
finished surface of the roof.
2. Plan Approvals -Applications that meet the design requirements of this ordinance, and do not
require a conditional use permit, shall be granted administrative approval by the zoning official
and shall not require Planning Commission review. Plan approval does not indicate compliance
with Building Code or Electric Code.
F. Compliance with Building Code - All active solar systems shall meet approval of local building
code officials, consistent with the State of Minnesota Building Code.
G. Compliance with State Electric Code - All photovoltaic systems shall comply with the Minnesota
Conditional Use Permits State Electric Code.
In some communities, conditional use permits
require fees and approvalprocesses that may be H. Utility Notification - No grid- intertie photovoltaic system shall be installed until evidence has been
out of proportion to any risk from the aesthetic given to the Planning and Zoning Department that the owner has submitted notification to the utility
impact of a solar ystem. Communities can company of the customer's intent to install an interconnected customer -owned generator. Off -grid
use alternative techniques such as administra- systems are exempt from this requirement.
tive variances that would allow staff to approve
solar systems that are appropriate screened or
designed to blend into the building. The admin- V. Conditional Uses - Where the standards in Section 4 are not met, active solar energy systems shall
istrative variance language would need to spell be considered a conditional use. The following conditions shall govern approval of a conditional use
out the conditions that staff would use to judge
if the ystemgenuiney could not be designed con- application for an active solar energy system.
c e xcept on the front of the building), and with Section 4 (such as a lack of solar
access s A. Standards for Solar System Conditional Use Permits - When a conditional use permit is required,
acces
the metrics by which staff would judge screening the permit shall be granted if the applicant demonstrates that the following safety and aesthetic condi-
or visual integration with the building. lions are met:
1. Aesthetic Conditions - The solar system must blend into the building on which the system is
mounted by being sufficiently set back from public right -of -ways or screened from view from the
Restrictions on solar systems right -of -way, or by using a surface collector color that blends into the roof or wall of the building
One of the most common barriers to solar energy as seen from the public right -of -way.
in developing areas are restrictive covenants in 2. Safety Conditions - The solar system must be anchored in such a manner as to withstand wind -
new subdivisions. The covenants are intended to speeds of 90 mph, and must be set back from adjoining properties far enough so as to present no
maintain an the appearance of homes, property reasonable risk of accidental contact with electrical components from adjoining properties.
values, and saleability. If, however, the localgov-
ernmentprovides solar design standards thatpro- 3. Pole- mounted Systems Restricted - Pole- mounted or ground - mounted active solar systems
tect agairutpoor design of solar accessory uses, shall not be allowed in residential districts between the front of the building and the front public
it is reasonable to prevent the developer or hom- right -of -way, and must be set back from the property line, when in minim design tilt, by
eowner. association from creating unwarranted one foot.
restrictions on a sustainable source of energy.
?�S 0
V1. Restrictions on Solar Systems Limited - No homeowners' agreement, covenant, common interest Solar Easements
community, or other contract between multiple property owners within a subdivision of Model Com-
munity shall restrict or limit solar systems to a greater extent than Model Community' solar performance Minnesota allows the purchase and holding of
standards. easemenisproteefing access to solar andmind
energy. The, easement must specify the following
information:
VII. Solar Access - Model Community encourages solar access to be protected in all new subdivisions and Required Contents - Any deed, will, or other
allows for existing olar to be protected consistent with Minnesota Statutes. instrument that: creates a solar or wind easement
a
9 shall include, but the contents are not limited to:
A. Model Community has elected to allow solar easements to be filed, consistent with Minnesota Stat. (a) A description of the realproper subject to
Chapter 500 Section 30. Any building owner can purchase an easement across neighboring properties the easement and a desorption of the real
to protect access to sunlight. The easement is purchased from or granted by owners of neighboring I property benefit from the solar or wind
properties and can apply to buildings, trees, or other structures that would diminish solar access. easement; and
(b) For solar:easements, a descrpdon of the
B. Model Community may require new subdivisions to identify and create solar easements when solar verWealandho' talnvn angles; expressed in
energy systems are implemented as a condition of a PUD, subdivision, conditional use, or other degrees and measuredfimm the site of the so-
permit, as specified in Section 8 of this ordinance. lar energy gstem,- at which the.solar easement
extends over the real property subject to the
easement, or any other description which de-
fines the three dimensional ' space, or the place
VIII. Renewable Energy Condition for Certain Permits
and times of day in which an obstruction to
A. Condition for Rezoning or Conditional Use Permit -Model Community may, in an area where the direct sunlight isprobibited or limited;
(c A desorption of the vertical and hoyiZontal
local electric distribution system was installed more than twenty years ago, or where the local electric angles, expressed in degrees, and distances
utility has documented a near-term need for additional distribution substation or conductor capacity, from the site of the wind power system in
require on-site renewable energy systems as a condition for a rezoning or a conditional use permit. which an 7 obstruceion to the winds isprohib-
1. The renewable energy condition may only be exercised for new construction or major reconstruc- ited or limited,.
tion projects. (d) Any terms or conditions under which the
easement is granted or may be terminated;
2. The renewable energy condition may only be exercised for sites that have 90% unimpeded solar (e) Any provisions for compensation of the
or wind energy access, and for which the renewable energy system can reasonably meet an perfor- owner of the real property benefifingfrom the
mance standards and building code requirements. easement in the event of interference with the
enjoyment of the easement, or compensation
of the owner of the real property subject to
_* sub
the easementfor maintaining the easement;
An
,y other provisions necessary or desirable to
execute the instrument.
Source. Minnesota Star. 500.30 Subd. 3.
Renewable Energy Conditions B. Condition for Planned Unit Development (PUD) Approval - Model Community may require on-
(previous page) site renewable energy systems as a condition for approval of a PUD permit, in order to mitigate for:
The community can use traditional development 1. Risk to the performance of the local electric distribution system,
tools such as conditional use permits, PUD; or 2. Increased emissions of greenhouse gases,
other discretionary permits to encourage private 3. Other risks or effects inconsistent with Model Community's Comprehensive Plan.
investment in solar energy ystems. This model
ordinance notes these opportunities for consid-
eration by localgovernments. In most cases,
additional ordinance language would need to be IX. Solar Roof Incentives - Model Community has identified the following incentives for development
inserted into the communi_0 f ordinances. For applications or subdivisions that will include buildings using active solar systems.
instance, a provision that PUD I incorporate so-
lar energy would need to be included in the com- A. Density Bonus - Any application for subdivision of land in the Districts that will allow the
munio s PUD ordinance, or if a condition of a development of at least four new lots of record shall be allowed to increase the maximum number of
CUP was to make the building solar-ready, this lots by 10% or one lot, whichever is greater, provided all building and wastewater setbacks can be met
would need to be included in the conditional use with the increased density, if the applicant enters into a development agreement guaranteeing at each
permit section of the ordinance. one kilowatt of PV or 64 square feet of solar hot water collector installed for each new residence.
B. Vacant Lot Preference - When Model Community disposes of vacant parcels of land that are under
Solar RoofIncentives City ownership through auction, Model Community shall award a 10% bid preference up to $5,000
This section of the model ordinance includes a for every kilowatt of solar capacity that is to be incorporated into the fully-built out parcel, when
series of incentives that can be incor awarding the bid. The bidder must also meet all land use and dimensional requirements, and must
porated into
development regulation. Most cities and many post a bond for the amount of the bid preference granted.
counties make requirements or use incentives to C. Combined Building Code Permit - On an existing building that is being retrofit with a solar
ensure that certain public amenities are incl uded
in development These same tools and incentives system, Model Community shall charge no more than one permit fee for a solar system that meets the
can be used to encoura ge private investment in administrative approval requirements of this ordinance.
solar energy. Communities will not want to use D. Solar Access Variance - On a site where the solar access standards of the subdivision ordinance
all these incentives, but should select which ones are difficult to meet due to topography or road connectivity, the zoning administrator shall grant an
make the most sense in their community (or cre-
ate some other incentive that encourages solar administrative exception from the solar access standards provided the applicant meets the following
energy). onditions:
). As with any incentive an important ele-
meet of creating the incentive is to engageplan- 1. Solar Access Lots Identified - At least _/o of the lots, or a minimum of — lots, are identified
ning or economic development staff in the cre- as solar development lots.
anon of the incentive, so that staff can assist the
developer in taking advantage . Covenant Assigned -Solar access lots are assigned a covenant that homes built upon these lots
s
e of thepro"' ions. must include an active solar system. Photovoltaic systems must be at least one (1) KW in capacity
and solar thermal systems must have at least 64 square feet of collector area.
AK
3. Additional Fees Waived - Model Community will waive any additional fees for filing of
the covenant.
E. Affordable Housing Offset - On a site where 90% of the potential solar access is unimpeded, and
the local electrical distribution system was installed more than twenty years ago, Model Community
may substitute a requirement for grid- interde photovoltaic systems or active solar thermal systems for
up to 50% of the affordable housing requirement. For each unit of affordable housing for which a
solar energy substitution is made:
1. The photovoltaic system must have at least 2 kilowatts (KV;) of capacity with 90% unobstructed
solar access.
2. The active solar thermal system must be sized and have sufficient solar access to generate 75% of
the estimated domestic hot water load for a family of four.
F. Commercial Parking Requirement Offset - On a site where 90% of the potential solar access is
unimpeded, and which has access to mass transit within a block of the development site or which has
an approved Travel Demand Management (TDM) plan, or which has entered into a shared parking
arrangement with another commercial business that has distinct peak parking profiles, Model Com-
munity may substitute a requirement for grid - intertie photovoltaic systems or an active solar thermal
systems for up to 50% of the parking requirement, up to a maximum of 5 spaces. For each parking
space for which a solar energy substitution is made:
1. The photovoltaic system must have at least one (1) kilowatt (KW) of capacity with 90% unob-
structed solar access; or
2. An active solar thermal system must have at least 56 square feet of solar collector, and must have
sufficient summer load to utilize collector output.
"1" 011
� r
T
i"MiL
d
The qualities and characteristics desired for the City of Woodbury by the
year 2030 are expressed in the vision statement. The Comprehensive Plan Chapter Contents
is the blueprint to achieve that future vision. Creating and applying a vision Vision Summary 2 -1
requires citizens to reflect on the future and reach agreement on shared
Vision for Woodbury ........................ 2 -1
desires. In times of change or conflict, the vision statement can become a
compass, pointing the way to a common direction and values. Guiding Principles ........................... 2 -2
The vision statement below creates a picture of the Woodbury community
desired in 2030. The Guiding Principles that followprovide additional details
about the specific elements identified to be vital to the community.
Vision Summary
A model of carefully managed growth, Woodbury will be known for its
vibrant residential neighborhoods, thriving business community, diverse
employment opportunities and exceptional municipal services. Woodbury
will demonstrate sustainability through preservation of its resources and
responsible environmental stewardship.
Vision for Woodbury
The Comprehensive Plan guides the use of land and the actions of city
government to provide a sustainable quality of life, making careful and ef-
fective use of available natural, human and economic resources and ensuring
that resources exist to maintain and enhance the quality of life for future
residents.
Woodbury's vision is a community where diverse opportunities for housing,
employment, education, recreation, shopping, transportation, volunteer
organizations, participatory government and cultural activities are woven
together into a unique identity in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Wood-
bury is a place where residents of all ages, incomes, cultures and creeds are
welcome in the community.
Woodbury is a safe and healthy place to live, work and play. These characteris-
• tics affect all aspects of community life and allow people to stay in Woodbury
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Vision & Guiding Principles 2 -1
as they age. Health and safety influence the design of Guiding Principles
development and its relationship with the natural en-
vironment. 1. Make Woodbury Sustainable
Woodbury believes in measured and carefully planned Woodbury is firmly committed to the preservation and
enhancement of its environment and to the principle
growth that enables the City to welcome new residents capacity and
and businesses and to improve the quality, at each generation of residents must meet the needs of
y, the present without compromising the ability of future
affordability of municipal services and infrastructure. residents to meet their own needs.
Woodbury manages growth to ensure aesthetic standards
and property values and to maintain or enhance the 2. provide a Safe and Healthy Community
quality, integrity and value of existing neighborhoods
and business districts. The well-being of Woodbury's residents is a fundamen-
tal objective of the Comprehensive Plan. Providing a
Woodbury is home to people in all stages of life from first place that is safe and healthy involves more than police
homes to dwellings that allowgraceful aging. Woodbury and fire services. Safe and connected neighborhood
neighborhoods vary from rural estates to traditional environments form the building blocks of Woodbury.
single - family neighborhoods to places with a mix of The development pattern encourages people to know
housing styles and activities. Woodbury residents can their neighbors and focuses on community life. The
shop at a neighborhood center or an array of regional street system allows vehicles to operate safely, while
retail destinations. supporting trails, sidewalks, bike lanes and other systems
that encourage people to move without an automobile.
Expanding employment opportunities create more Municipal infrastructure systems provide clean water and
choices for residents to both live and work in Wood - protect the water supply. The City is prepared to respond
bury. Improvements to technology and transportation to emergencies and other conditions that threaten the
systems provide options for where and how Woodbury safety and health of the community. The availability of
residents work. and access to health care is an increasingly imp
Woodbury treasures the many natural amenities that element of the quality of life in Woodbury.
exist within our community. Our parks, trails and open
spaces connect our residents to nature, encourage an 3. Manage Growth
active, healthy lifestyle and promote community interac- The Comprehensive Plan continues to consciously man-
tion and sustainability. age the timing, location and characteristics of growth.
Growth management ensures that Woodburywelcomes
Woodbury is connected with a system of trails, sidewalks, new residents and businesses while sustaining the quality
bike lanes and transit as well as roadways. Woodbury and affordability of municipal services and infrastruc-
promotes regional planning and investments in both ture desired by the community. The Comprehensive
roadways and transit that allow residents to travel to plan looks to the year 2030 and a city that is nearly fully
destinations outside ofthe community and to encourage developed. In adding the final pieces to the puzzle, it is
others to visit Woodbury. essential that Woodbury carefully considers how growth
Woodbury excels in the stewardship of the environment completes the community. The Comprehensive Plan
and protects its natural resources to enhance the quality promotes development standards that ensure aesthetic
of life. Open space and greenways are integrated into the beauty, increase property values and enhance the natural
basic infrastructure of the community. environment within the community.
Woodbury is place of life -long learning. The availabil-
ity, quality and variety of educational opportunities are
integral to life in Woodbury. •
2 -2 1 Vision & Guiding Principles May 2009 City of Woodbury
4. Preserve Open Space 7. Meet Community Housing Needs
Woodbury is committed to preserving and expanding The City of Woodbury should encourage the develop -
community open space and natural areas. They are in- ment of a diversity of housing to accommodate people
tegral parts of our community. They connect residents of all ages, income levels and family status. The City will
to nature, encourage an active and healthy lifestyle and identify areas for residential growth in a range of types,
promote community interaction. They are evidence of styles and affordability while maintaining high quality
the City's commitment to environmental stewardship. building standards and amenities.
The City works collaboratively with other stakeholders
to continue and expand these practices as Woodbury 8. Manage Financial Resources
grows and ages. Achieving the vision for Woodbury requires the financial
resources to create and maintain municipal infrastruc-
5. Provide for Parks and Recreation ture, facilities and services. A growing local economy
The quality, variety and accessibility of parks and recre- produces needed financial resources and helps keep the
ation facilities are essential community assets. Facilities cost of local government affordable. The City must care -
should be designed, coordinated and maintained to offer fully plan for future changes. Slower growth affects the
a variety of active and passive recreational opportuni- property tax base. Aging infrastructure requires more
ties for people of all ages and balance enduring qualities funding for maintenance and replacement. Changes in
with the ability to adapt as the needs of the population the composition of the local population mayalter service
change. The City should devote appropriate resources demands that affect the ability to pay for governmental
to the ongoing maintenance of the park system. services. The City faces these challenges with innovation
and collaboration with community, governmental and
6. Plan for an Effective Transportation System other institutional partners.
Woodbury is dedicated to providing more diverse and
effective transportation systems. The City should ac- 9• Expand Opportunities for Employment
tively participate in efforts to expand regional transit It is important to offer more opportunities to work and
systems to serve Woodbury and the eastern metropoli- live in Woodbury. These opportunities keep people in
tan area. Growth will increase demand on the existing Woodbury and build strong ties to the community. Jobs
and future roadway system. At some point, it may not with incomes capable of supporting a household allow
be possible or desirable to accommodate this demand more flexibility in the choice to live in Woodbury as travel
solely by building larger roads. Creative solutions are to other employment locations becomes more time con -
necessary to balance safe and efficient transportation suming and expensive. Changing technologies will create
with other aspects of quality of life in Woodbury, such more opportunities to work in non - traditional settings.
as aesthetics, stormwater management and adjacent Woodbury should have the infrastructure and supporting
land uses. The City should encourage alternative forms services to capture these opportunities. Work at home
of transportation such as car - pooling, busing, biking should not disrupt the integrity of neighborhoods.
and walking and participate in regional efforts to study
potential development of mass transit solutions. At the 10. Promote Reinvestment
same time, the City needs to accommodate the demand As Woodbury ages, existing neighborhoods and com-
for safe, well- maintained roadways and improve upon its mercial districts may need additional attention. Rein -
pedestrian accessibility. vestment and maintenance of property is required to
ensure that the qualities sought from new development
endure overtime. A proactive approach seeks to prevent
conditions that require more complicated and expensive
redevelopment by the City.
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Vision & Guiding Principles 1 2 -3
11. Promote Excellence in Education
Excellence in education is part of the core values, quality
of life and identity of Woodbury. City government will
work collaborativelywith public school districts, private
schools and other stakeholders to provide quality and
safe learning environments and to make the best use of
public financial resources. The City strives to encourage
a variety of options for educating children and to provide
opportunities for learning at all stages of life.
12. Maintain a Positive Identity
The Comprehensive Plan establishes and sustains the
identity and sense of place described in Woodbury's
vision for the future. Citizens are encouraged to be-
come engaged in community life. Local governmental
processes are open and transparent, with a full and fair
opportunity for any community member to be reason-
ably heard. Public forums are offered where community
input is encouraged, diversity of opinion is welcomed,
and a respectful and constructive dialogue is ensured.
The City creates gathering places and opportunities for
community interaction and engages partners in applying
this principle.
13. Provide Excellence in City Government
The purpose of City government in Woodbury is to cul-
tivate a world -class city through a unified vision of a sus-
tainable, well - planned community driven by innovative
approaches, ethical practices and responsible resource
management. City staff is guided by a commitment to
a helpful, effective, looking ahead and professional (We
HELP) service culture.
2 -4 1 Vision & Guiding Principles May 2009 City of Woodbury
'41 a
r-
Y.
1 7 ,
The Comprehensive Plan guides the use of land and the actions Chapter Contents
of city government to provide a sustainable quality of life, mak-
ing careful and effective use of available natural, human and Sustainability .... ............................... 7 -1
economic resources and ensuring that resources existto maintain Background ....... ............................... 7 -2
and enhance the quality of life for future residents. Resource Inventory 7 -2
Global Resources ........... ............................7 -2
The City of Woodbury faces the challenge of controlling urban growth at Wildlife and Vegetation Resources 7-2
the urban -rural fringe. As growth occurs, stress is placed on the physical Geologic Resources ....... ............................7 -7
environment and natural resource base. Developing and implementing Surface Water Resources ..........................7 -7
Groundwater Resources .........................7 -11
environmental protection tools and strategies is essential in protecting the
community's natural resources. Natural resources are important features in Natural Resource Issues .................
Global Resources .......... ...........................7 -13
Woodbury providing stormwater management and flood control, contrib- Wildlife and Vegetation Resources 7-13
uting to air quality, increasing property values and creating a sense of place Geologic Resources ...... ...........................7 -14
and identity for the community. Surface Water Resources ........................7 -15
Groundwater Resources .........................7 -17
Goals and Policies .......................... 7 -17
S u sta i n a bi I ity Global Resources .......... ...........................7 -17
Wildlife and Vegetation Resources ......7 -18
It is the City's responsibility to establish and implement goals, policies, guide- Geologic Resources ..... ...........................7 -19
Surface Water Resources ........................7 -19
lines and strategic actions to protect air and water quality, preserve natural Groundwater Resources ........................7 -20
resources, conserve energy and reduce waste. This chapter builds on many
Implementation ............................ 7 -21
of the principles, goals and policies established in previous comprehensive Global Resources .......... ...........................7 -21
plans as well as other chapters of this Plan. wildlife and vegetation Resources ......7 -23
Geologic Resources ..... ...........................7 -25
This chapter addresses the management of natural resources and identifies Surface Water Resources ........................7 -26
strategies to assist Woodbury in becoming a more sustainable community. Groundwater Resources ........................7 -27
Public Education and Involvement .....7 -28
Through sustainable development and efficient use of resources, both local Intergovernmental Cooperation ..........7 -29
and global, the City seeks to maintain or enhance economic opportunity and
community well -being while protecting and restoring the natural environ-
ment uponwhich people and economies depend. Woodbury strives to meet
the needs of the present generation without sacrificing the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.
2030 Compreheqsive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -1
Natural Resource Issues and enhancing livabilityfor its citizens. Thesedesignele-
ments should be utilized in private construction as well
To protect environmental resources, specific areas and as within City buildings. The City also encourages envi-
be identified, and guidelines to help minim
current issues that impact the natural environment must ronmental purchasing both in design and construction as
ize negative well as throughout the life
rycle of the development.
impacts on the environment must be established. This
section includes a discussion of current issues identi- Recycling and Waste Reduction
fied for the five resource areas described above (global
resources, wildlife and vegetation, geologic resources, The City of Woodbury has an open collection system for
surface water and groundwater). solid waste and recycling. This system allows residents
to choose any hauler provided the hauler is licensed by
Global Resources the City. Private haulers are required to offer residential
curbside and apartment pickup of recyclable materials,
Energy including magazines, catalogs, phone books, mixed paper
Energy conservation and the use ofrenewable energy can and junk mail, newspaper and inserts, shredded paper,
minimize the impact on global climate change and reduce plastic bottles, aluminum and steel cans, glass bottles and
dependence on non - renewable fossil fuels. In 2004, the jars, cardboard and boxboard. A County drop -off site
City implemented a comprehensive energy conservation accepting household hazardous waste and electronics
policy to promote energy conservation and efficiency is also available to Woodbury residents. The City also
and the use of alternative energy resources in Citybuild- encourages composting by residents on their property
ings. The City recognizes that although it is important and through use of the yard waste site in Woodbury. It
to implement these practices in City operations, it is also is important to continue current recycling and waste
critical to promote energy conservation and the use of reduction practices as well as encourage increased efforts
renewable energy resources in private development and throughout the City.
to encourage residents to use energy efficiently.
Wildlife and Vegetation Resources
Climate Change and Air Quality Native Vegetation Preservation and Restoration
The international community's most respected as- Few areas of native vegetation remain in pre - settlement
semblage of scientists has linked the significant rise in condition as a result ofpast land use decisions. Areas that
greenhouse gases to global warming, stating that hu- may not have experienced significant disturbance may
man activities are largely responsible for the increased contain less native species than once existed. The City
concentration ofglobal warming pollution. Asignificant recognizes the importance of preserving larger areas of
amount of outdoor pollution stems from the use of fos- native vegetation that still exist in the community and
sil fuels to power vehicles and for heating, cooling and the importance of restoration activities.
operating buildings. Making responsible decisions at
the City level and promoting responsible actions within Tree Preservation, Restoration and Management
the community can help to reduce demands on natural
resources and improve air quality. As stated above, few areas of native vegetation remain
in Woodbury. Of special importance is the fact that
Sustainable Design few sizable stands of trees remain because of intensive
farming since the 1900s. Pests and disease including
The concept ofsustainable design as it applies to the built Dutch elm disease and oak wilt threaten the current tree
environment incorporates the principles of economic, population without proper management. The preserva-
social and ecological sustainability. The City views the tion and proper management of existing tree stands is
incorporation of these elements into development as an important natural resource goal.
crucial to its goal of becoming a sustainable community
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -13
Invasive Species water movement are "short circuited" allowing surface
In addition to the loss of native vegetation through Water to quickly move long distances through fissures,
past land use decisions, existing areas of native species cracks and collapse features in the bedrock. The City
are threatened by invasive species. One example is the will need to be alert to the potential for the presence of
unique plant community of the Tamarack Swamp that karst features as development continues.
is being threatened by several invasive species including
purple loosestrife, buckthorn and reed canary grass. The Soils
rare species may disappear from the swamp if these ag- The characteristics of native soils can have an impact
gressive invasive species begin to dominate the swamp on stormwater management. Requirements adopted
ecosystem. by Woodbury in 2003, and additional requirements
adopted by the three watershed districts with jurisdic-
Greenway Corridors tion in the City, make infiltration of stormwater a man -
Many of Woodbury's remaining natural areas are frag- datory requirement for all new development. Coarser
mented, separated by urban development or agricultural hydrologic group A soils infiltrate water rapidly, while
lands. The greenway corridor plan strives to identify the tighter hydrologic group D soils infiltrate water very
and connect Woodbury's natural systems and areas. slowly. Hydrologic group B and C soils fall somewhere
Greenways are often defined as continuous corridors in between. These natural differences in infiltration
that provide for the movement of wildlife and protec- rates have implications for stormwater management.
tion of natural resources. They are generally vegetated, Development occurring on tighter soils will require
linear in shape, and often follow natural waterways or larger infiltration facilities and a greater percentage of
land features such as wetlands, slopes, valleys and rid- the site dedicated to infiltration than development oc-
gelines. Greenways enhance the ecological function curring on the coarser soils. Hydrologic group A soils,
and aesthetic quality of natural areas and open spaces while able to accomplish the required infiltration with
by interconnecting them, thereby countering habitat proportionally smaller facilities, have the concern of
fragmentation and loss. infiltrating too fast. This rapid infiltration can present
the potential for groundwater contamination, as the soil
Establishing guidelines for greenway corridors is the first does not have enough contact time with stormwater to
step in the goal of keeping natural systems intact, incor- reduce pollutant loads.
porating them into developments in an environmentally
sensitive way and expanding the corridors within the Erosion and Sediment Control
community. Special management guidelines will be In a developing suburb, soil erosion during the develop -
developed to preserve and improve the habitat, natural ment process is often the single biggest contributor of
functions and scenic qualities of greenways. pollution to receiving waters. Multiple developments,
Geologic Resources each with multiple builders, can create challenges to
successfully implementing an erosion and sediment
Karst Topography control program.
Woodburyfirst became aware that karst features existed Soil Compaction
in the City when a major sinkhole collapse occurred in
2005 in a regional stormwater pond. The collapse caused During the development process, soils can become com-
the water in the pond to drain within 48 hours presenting pacted as a result of site grading and heavy equipment
on the site. When the soil profile becomes compacted,
a number of groundwater concerns. As surface water
moves quickly into karst features, the potential exists to its ability to infiltrate water is greatly reduced resulting
quickly spread pollutants in surface water to drinking in greater stormwater runoff from the site.
water aquifers. The normal underground pathways for
7 -14 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
Aggregate Resources Storm water Pollution
The Metropolitan Council estimates that the local sup - The MPCA is the permitting authority in Minnesota for
ply of aggregate materials in the metropolitan area will the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
be exhausted by 2029 at the current projected rates of (NPDES) program, the federal program administered
consumption. Calculations of aggregate use in Min- by the Environmental Protection Agency to address
nesota estimate that each person consumes 10.5 tons stormwater runoff' pollution. In compliance with the
of aggregate every year through such projects as road provisions of the federal Clean Water Act, the NPDES
construction and maintenance, infrastructure develop- permit authorizes stormwater discharges from storm
ment and building construction. In a developing suburb, sewer systems.
aggregate use is probably higher than average on a per
capita basis. Woodburywas required to obtain NPDES permit cover-
age in 2003. To obtain coverage, the City of Woodbury
The Miller -Danner gravel pit at the southwest corner of was required to develop a stormwater pollution preven-
Bailey Road and Mile Drive is the only gravel pit cur- tion program ( SWPPP) that addresses specific control
rently providing aggregate materials for local construc- measures outlined in the permit.
tion projects in Woodbury. This pit is scheduled to close In addition to the original requirements of the 2003
in 2009. Gravel pits do exist outside the City boundaries,
but the cost of aggregate increases as the distance hauled NPDES permit, the MPCA revised the NPDES permit
increases. In 2001, it was estimated that an increase in Program in 2006 to require 30 municipalities across the
hauling distance of 10 miles would cause Woodbury state to complete a nondegradation review. The review
developers and residents to pay an additional $600,000 will be used by the MPCA to determine if nondegrada-
peryear in aggregate costs. tion rules are being met. Minnesota nondegradation
rules for all waters require that discharges to surface wa-
Countering the advantages of a locally available source ters that have occurred since 1989 do not degrade water
of gravel is the nuisance aspect of gravel mining. Gravel quality. They support state policy to protect Minnesota
mining generates dust, noise and heavy truck traffic. waters from significant degradation and to maintain uses,
Mining activities can have an adverse impact on adjacent habitats and water quality in these waters by limiting the
residential areas. loading of pollutants.
Surface Water Resources Woodbury was one of the 30 municipalities to which
the nondegradation review requirement applied. The
Impaired Waters nondegradation review included conducting a pollutant
The Minnesota Pollution ControlAgency (MPCA) is re- loading assessment, writing a nondegradation report and
quired to publish a list of impaired waters in the state that modifying the City's SWPPP to address the findings of
are not meeting federal water quality standards. For each the assessment and to incorporate any changes proposed
waterbody on the list, the MPCA is required to conduct in the plan. Woodbury submitted its nondegradation
a study to determine the allowable Total Maximum Daily review materials to the MPCA and is currently waiting
Load (TMDL) for each pollutant that exceeds the stan- for review and approval by the MPCA.
dards. Impaired waters within Woodbury include Battle
Creek Lake, Battle Creek, Carver Lake, Colby Lake, Valley Branch Watershed District /Northeast
Markgrafs Lake and Wilmes Lake. These waterbodies Woodbury
are listed and described with their impairment and af- The northeastern area of the City, within VBWD, has
fected use in the City's Surface Water Management Plan. several stormwater related challenges that will need to
The Surface Water Management Plan is summarized in be addressed in the near future as development occurs.
Chapter 12 of the Comprehensive Plan. These unique concerns are discussed below according
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -15
to the three subwatersheds within the district as well as veloped areas may not be able to be used due to the risk
watershed -wide concerns. of sinkholes and groundwater contamination.
The northernmost portion of the district, generally Tamarack Swamp Management
north of Hudson Road and east of Cottage Grove Drive, The Tamarack Swamp is one of the most southern plant
discharges stormwater to the I -94 freeway ditch system communities of its type and is listed on the Minnesota
and eventually to the St. Croix River, an Outstanding Biological Survey as a Significant Natural Plant Com-
Resource Value Water (ORVW). Afull discussion ofthe munity. Surrounded by development, its water quality
implications of this issue can be found in the St. Croix and quantity is difficult to manage. The Comprehensive
River ORV W Restricted Discharge Water Plan prepared
by the City of Woodbury for the MPCA. The St. Croix Vegetation Survey of Tamarack Swamp, March 1999,
discusses the management issues.
River was also recently listed as an impaired water, creat-
ing more concern over future discharge to the river. powers Lake Management
The middle portion of the district, generally south of The South Washington Watershed District completed a
Hudson Road and north of the future Eastview Road Powers Lake Management Plan in 2000. The majority
extension, drains toward Woodbury's eastern bound- of the tributary drainage area to Powers Lake west of St.
ary and into Fahlstrom Pond within the City of Afton. John's Drive was developed at that time. The 2000 plan
Woodbury's future land use plan (see Chapter 4) indi- developed water quality goals for Powers Lake to keep
cates residential and commercial development in this phosphorus concentrations within average values for the
area that would typically increase runoff from the current region. The methods for control included stormwater
agricultural condition. VBWD has performed detailed management practices such as ponding, erosion control
modeling showing structures adjacent to Fahlstrom and aquatic plant management. Since the 2000 plan,
Pond are already at risk for flooding in large events be- the construction of the Fish Lake outlet was completed,
cause the pond is landlocked, and there are no plans for doubling the tributary drainage area to Powers Lake.
providing an outlet. The City of Woodbury will need to Monitoring has shown some signs of declining water
plan for a stormwater management system in this area quality, raising concerns about the long -term water
so that structures adjacent to the pond are not subject quality of the lake.
to an increased flood risk.
The southern portion of the district, generally south Floodplain Management
of the future Eastview Road extension, drains toward Minimizing losses associated with flooding promotes
Valley Creek. Valley Creek is one of the few naturally Public health, safety and general welfare. The key to
reproducing trout streams in the metro area. Currently, floodplain management is determining the floodplain
the area that drains toward Valley Creek is designated areas that are at risk for flooding. Once those areas have
as Urban Reserve. At some point after 2030, it is likely been identified, ordinances should be written and en-
that development will occur in the area and some type forced to restrict the building of structures within those
of special development standards will be necessary to areas determined to be at risk. It is also important to
protect the cold water fishery of Valley Creek. educate residents about purchasing flood insurance
whether they are required to do so or as optional protec-
Throughout the Valley Branch Watershed District there tion for their property.
are concerns regarding karst topography (described in
the Geologic Resources issues) that will likely have a Groundwater Resources
significant impact on the types of stormwater practices Groundwater resources issues within the City of Wood -
that can be utilized in the area. Large regional ponds bury can be divided into two major categories, ground-
with significant storage that are typically utilized in de- water quantity and groundwater quality.
7 -16 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
Groundwater Quantity was the upper bedrock formation and agricultural land
Two main factors affecting groundwater abundance uses were predominate. There are large areas in southern
are the volume of recharge of aquifers from rainfall and and eastern Woodbury that also meet these conditions.
snow melt and the amount of groundwater pumped out Data gathered by Washington County through their
of aquifers. Climate and weather cannot be controlled. private well testing program has confirmed the presence
However, effects on the land surface where groundwa- of elevated nitrate levels in the Prairie du Chien aquifer
ter recharge occurs can be. Development of the land in Woodbury.
generally increases the amount of impervious surfaces, In 2007, the Minnesota Department of Health an-
reducing the natural ability of precipitation to infiltrate nounced that low levels of the chemical perfluorobu-
and recharge aquifers. tanoic acid (PFBA) had been detected in municipal wells
Accompanying development and increased impervious in Woodbury. The Department of Health's established
surfaces is a growth in population that increases the health -based values suggest the chemical at these levels
need for groundwater pumping to serve household, does not pose an immediate health risk to Woodbury
commercial and industrial needs. Historically, the City's residents and businesses. The City is working with public
aquifers have had abundant water; however, there may health and pollution control experts from the Depart -
be limits to the amount of water available for pumping ment of Health, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
before aquifers are depleted, lake levels are lowered and and the Washington County Department of Public
stream flows are diminished. Health and Environment as well as 3M to obtain more
information about PFBA and keep residents informed
Peak residential water consumption during the summer on emerging issues related to the contamination.
is a concern in Woodbury. Water use rose to an all -time
high consumption in 2006 in Woodbury and prompted
the City Council to analyze water conservation initia- Goals and Policies
tives. These initiatives are discussed in Chapter 10, Wa- Valuable resources such as clean water and air and en-
ter Supply, of the Comprehensive Plan. In addition to ergy conservation have no boundaries. Local choices
residential consumption, there are also concerns about affect the quality of both the City's natural resources
private well users that pump large amounts of ground- and resources at a global scale. Thus, Woodbury has a
water for uses such as contamination remediation or set ofgoals and policies that applynot onlyto protecting
irrigation. the natural resources of the community but reflect the
Groundwater Quality City's desire to responsibly manage its impact to global
resources.
Sources of groundwater contamination include residen-
tial, commercial and industrial waste disposal; landfills; Global Resources
leaking petroleum tanks; septic systems; stormwater
contamination from karst topography and fertilizer and Goals
pesticide inputs. High quality groundwater is available in 1. Create a sustainable community that provides bal-
most of Woodbury; however, there are locations where ance between a growing economy, protection for the
contaminants have been found. In these areas, there are environment and social responsibility to enhance
added financial and social costs to managing the affected quality of life while preserving the same for future
water supply. generations.
In 2003, Washington County completed a nitrate con- 2. Create a livable community where development
tamination study in the Cottage Grove area. The study incorporates sustainable design elements such as
found generally elevated levels of nitrate in the Prairie du resource and energy conservation and use of renew -
Chien aquifer; particularly where the Prairie du Chien able energy.
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -17
3. Protect and enhance air quality and reduce the emis- 11. Support waste reduction activities including recy-
sion of greenhouse gases and control the impact of cling, reuse and composting through policies and
climate change locally and globally. educational outreach opportunities for citizens and
4. Reduce waste stream toxicity and amount; minimi businesses.
generation of hazardous waste and increase reuse, 12. Emphasize the importance of directing waste that
recycling composting and purchasing of environ- cannot be reused, recycled or composted to facilities
mentally preferred products with minimal or no that recover some of the energyvalue in garbage, and
packaging. use landfilling as a last alternative.
Policies
13. Promote a sustainable solid waste program in exist -
ing and future residential developments.
1. Promote the use of highperformance or sustainable
design practices during all phases of development 14. Continue to provide and encourage curbside re-
including design, deconstruction, construction and , cling of reusable waste materials through educa-
tional events, promotional materials and volunteer
building operation and maintenance. efforts.
2. Promote national and regional sustainable building
design programs including utility-sponsored renew- Wildlife and Vegetation Resources
able energy and conservation programs.
Goals
3. Encourage energy and resource conservation strate-
effects of climate change, including 1. Preserve and protect existing significant areas of
gies to limit the e
decreased use of fossil fuels and a shift to renewable native vegetation.
energy sources. 2. Protect existing trees and woodlots to the extent
4. Promote the use of renewable energy, including solar feasible as property is developed. When protection
energy, in new residential developments. is not a feasible option, require tree replacement.
S. Review the potential for use of renewable energy, 3. Increase tree canopy coverage throughout the
including solar energy, in all new public buildings. City.
6. Consider varying setback requirements within PUDs 4. Manage Cityproperty to discourage growth of inva-
in residential zoning districts as a means of protect- sive species and promote removal ofinvasive species
ing solar access. throughout the community.
7. Encourage alternative transportation by providing S. Create a continuous green corridor that connects
sidewalks and trails and encouraging transit op- existing natural resource areas, providing a more
portunities. ecologically sound system of open spaces.
8. Educate and inform businesses and residents about Policies
opportunities and incentives to increase the utiliza- 1. Encourage revegetation and management of natural
tion of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, areas to restore native habitat and natural aesthetic
geothermal, hydro and biomass.
qualities.
9. Improve the City's environmental performance 2 Encourage limited and responsible use ofherbicides,
by setting targets, using innovative approaches,
Pesticides and fertilizers on residential and City
encouraging employees to conserve resources and
improving the existing recycling program. property.
10. Support and encourage community efforts in envi- 3. Continue an active disease and pest control program
ronmental awareness and education. on City property.
7 -18 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
4. Encourage native tree planting and restoration ef- 3. Limit the movement of soils off site and the impacts
forts on private property and continue planting, of sediment on receivingwaters during the develop -
management and restoration programs on City ment process.
property. 4. Use aggregate resources in areas where multiple
S. Encourage tree planting along roads and boulevards, City objectives can be accomplished through min-
as appropriate. ing activity.
6. Use open space to link other park and open spaces
whenever possible. Policies
7. Require open space within a new development to be
1. Establish a karst overlay district with special require-
coordinated with and contiguous to the open space ments in areas known or suspected to have karst
of existing adjacent development as appropriate. topography.
8. Establish and maintain open space for wildlife man- 2. Require the same amount of stormwater infiltration
agement and educational and scientific purposes. on all soil types, but allow flexibility in meeting the
infiltration targets by allowing a variety of best man -
9. Develop a greenway corridor plan that links areas of agement practices.
natural resources that include wetlands, slopes, tree
canopies, drainage ways and other significant natural 3• Enforce the land disturbance and erosion and sedi-
ment control ordinance and permit to limit move -
features to create a continuous greenway corridor.
ment of soil to receiving waters during the develop -
10. Create mechanisms that allow landowners to achieve ment process.
reasonable development while preserving a portion
4. Review options for establishing a program for post -
of the land as greenway as appropriate.
development soil decompaction.
11. Allow opportunities for neighborhood parks to oc-
cur within or adjacent to greenway corridors. Physi- S. Allow gravel mines through interim conditional use
cal development of a neighborhood park should permits if they provide other City benefits, such as
minimize disturbance of natural areas. stormwater management or open space. Where pos-
sible, using naturally occurring aggregate on site or
12. Develop partnerships with non - profit, government exporting it as development occurs is preferred to
or private organizations for the purpose of acquiring actually establishing gravel mines.
targeted open spaces for greenways.
13. Promote management efforts that work to improve Surface Water Resources
the habitat and scenic qualities of greenway cor- Goals
ridors.
1. Improve the water quality of lakes, wetlands and
Geologic Resources streams by reducing loading of phosphorus, total
suspended solids and water volume. At a mini -
Goals mum, there will be no increase in phosphorus, total
1. Recognize limits on development imposed by geo- suspended solids and water volume discharge over
logic conditions and accommodate them within the current conditions.
design of the development. 2. Reduce or maintain existing flows to lakes, wetlands
2. Utilize soil resources to gain maximum benefit for and streams to control flooding and maintain the
stormwater treatment through infiltration while natural communities associated with surface water
protecting groundwater resources. resources.
3. Require infiltration of stormwater runoff to the
maximum extent practicable to reduce loading of
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources/Environmental Protection 1 7 -19
phosphorus, total suspended solids and water vol- 11. Prohibit clearing and grading within designated
ume to lakes, wetlands and streams. wetland buffers.
4. Manage time of inundation, bounce and water qual- 12. Manage high priority lakes with specific lake man -
ity in lakes and wetlands so that lake and wetland agement plans.
function and values are preserved. 13. Continue or enhance the existing program to collect
S. Monitor long -term surface water quality trends long -term water quality data.
through a comprehensive program.
Groundwater Resources
Policies
1. Encourage sustainable site design including reduc-
Goals
tion of impervious surfaces, alternative landscaping 1. Manage surface water runoff to protect drinking
practices and low impact development. water and wells.
2. Require the use ofwatershed best management prac- 2. Manage surface water runoff to promote ground-
tices to minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff.
water recharge.
3. Design detention basins with appropriate capacity 3. Promote sustainable and efficient use ofgroundwater
and to meet flow rate performance criteria. resources by balancing aquifer use and recharge.
4. Require infiltration on all new development and poli'ci'es
redevelopment projects to reduce nutrient loading 1. Require infiltration practices that promote the re-
and volume. charge of groundwater where appropriate.
S. Base all drainage system analyses and designs on 2 Encourage alternative landscaping techniques and
proposed full development land use patterns and other water conservation efforts.
in accordance with appropriate ordinances and
standards. 3. Follow the Water Emergency and Conservation Plan
6. Require installation of best management practices and encourage responsible water use by residents.
on new development and redevelopment projects 4. Develop programs to minimize water usage during
and construct stormwater management facilities to periods of prolonged drought.
reduce post - development runoff volume. S. Follow the City of Woodbury's approved wellhead
7. Apply the nondegradation strategies of no increase protection plan.
in total phosphorus, total suspended solids and wa- 6. Refer all plans for individual sewage treatment sys-
ter volume to discharge to DNR public waters and tems to Washington County for review and approval
public watercourses, not on a City-wide basis. in accordance with established agreement.
8. Discourage wetland disturbance. Wetlands must 7. Protect drinking water and wells by restricting in-
not be drained or filled, wholly or partially, unless filtration where underlying karst formations may
replaced by restoring, enhancing or creating wetland convey untreated surface water directly into ground -
areas of an equal public value, as permitted by the water aquifers.
Wetland Conservation Act. 8. Encourage residents with private wells to partici-
9. Encourage the restoration of degraded wetlands. pate in Washington County's private well testing
10. Protect wetland function and values from develop- program.
ment impacts where possible. Where function and 9. Provide educational opportunities for residents re-
values cannot be maintained, the City will mitigate garding the proper use oflawn fertilizers to minimize
• these wetlands in accordance with the replacement the amount of nitrate reaching the groundwater.
requirements of the Wetland Conservation Act.
7 -20 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
10. Utilize planning, land use regulations and appropri- voice their opinions regarding environmental educa-
ate controls to promote Washington County's goal of tion.
protecting groundwater through sustainable growth,
integrated land use and integrated groundwater- The commission sponsors several events throughout the
surface water management. year to increase environmental awareness, including the
annual Environmental Landscape Workshop and the
11. Work with Washington County to develop plans for Earth Day Recycling Event. Additional outreach events
groundwater protection related to new commercial focus on recycling, waste reduction and conservation.
and industrial development.
12. Workwith Washington Countytoward implementa- Sustainability Committee
tion of the Washington County Groundwater Plan In 2007, the Sustainability Committee was established as
2003.2013, especially where the City is listed as a subcommitteeoftheEnvironmentalAdvisoryCommis-
the "lead" or a "team member" for Implementation sion (EAC). It consists ofup to eight residents. The City
Actions. Council assigned the following tasks to the committee:
development of a high performance building program
for City buildings and private development; amending
Implementation the "Natural Environment" critical success factor to
Identifying strategies and tools for implementation of incorporate sustainability and developing performance
the goals and policies described within this chapter is a measures pertaining to energy use /conservation, green
critical component to preserving natural resources and building and related sustainability issues.
ensuring that development recognizes the inherent value
of open space and environmental protection. The "build- High Performance Building Program
ing blocks" of an effective implementation plan include The City Council assigned the Sustainability Committee
the work of commissions and committees; ordinances, with the task of developing a high performance building
permit programs and other regulatory mechanisms; Program for private development. The green building
design guidelines and performance standards; program subgroup of the committee has researched existing na-
tional and regional high performance building standards
implementation and enforcement; public education
and involvement and intergovernmental cooperation. to determine what type of program would best fit the
While use and structure of the first four components City's goals. The committee has made recommenda-
varies widely, public education and involvement and tions to the City Council regarding a program for City
intergovernmental cooperation involve many of the buildings and private development. The subgroup also
same tools and governmental units for all of the natural developed a High Performance Building Idea List for
resource areas in this chapter. commercial and residential new construction and re-
modeling projects. The idea list will be distributed to
Global Resources developers, who are encouraged to incorporate as many
high performance features as possible into their design.
Environmental Advisory Commission Once a high performance building standard is formally
The City Code establishes an Environmental Advisory adopted, the Citywill begin monitoring progress toward
Commission (EAC), a citizens group to advise the City sustainable design.
Council regarding policies and procedures related to
sustainability issues. The commission is charged with Critical Success Factor
The City Council has identified seven critical success
encouraging the conservation and preservation ofwater,
a factors as crucial to Woodbury 's success as a community.
air, land, energy and other natural resources in order to
achieve a more sustainable community. The commission 'These are the guiding principles that govern the Coun-
also serves as a forum for the citizens of Woodbury to cil's strategic planning for the future. In 2007, the City
Council broadened the Natural Environment Critical
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -21
Success Factor to incorporate "Sustainability" with the the use of non -toxic cleaning products, purchasing a
following description: hybrid gas - electric vehicle, flex -fuel vehicles, increased
Woodbury strives to be a sustainable community
use of bio- diesel, installing LED lights in traffic signals,
using high efficiency motors in water wells and sewage
that promotes community health and wellness lift stations, retrofits for lighting, occupancy sensors, and
through the protection of the environment. The high efficiency heating and cooling systems. In addition,
City assesses and improves its development a re- commissioning study has been completed for all
practices, City and community energy use, and City buildings, and suggested retrofits have either been
use of its natural resources in order to not use completed or are scheduled for completion by the end
resources at the expense of future generations.
The City's role is to establish and im of 2010. All of these conservation measures represent an
lenient investment that will pay off in ongoing energy savings.
policies, guidelines, goals and strategic actions
to protect air and water quality, preserve natural The City has also decided to lead by example through
areas, conserve energy and reduce waste. the remodeling and expansion of City Hall, completed
in 2007. Sustainable design features incorporated into
Performance Measures City Hall include: a geothermal system for heating and
The Sustainability Committee, in cooperation with the
EAC, is working on a formal system to measure the cooling; a green roof; energy efficient mechanical and
electrical systems; stormwater improvements such as
City's progress toward sustainability. Initiatives that porous pavers, rain gardens and other innovative tech -
are currently underway include the establishment of niques; low -flow plumbing fixtures; and maximized use
tracking procedures for energy use in City buildings, of natural daylight. Providing the development commu-
high performance building in private development, com- nit and citizens with a demonstration project such as
munity awareness of sustainability and sustainability in CityHall provides a compelling example of the economic
relation to the City vehicle fleet. In addition, an action and environmental benefits of sustainable design.
plan will be developed that will serve as a guide for staff
and residents as the City moves forward with its goal of A sustainability audit of all City properties, buildings,
aiding in the reduction of carbon emissions related to services and operations will be completed. The audit
climate change. will select performance indicators appropriate for the
City, collect baseline data, determine goals and establish
In regard to recycling, the City has a formal procedure a schedule for periodic audits of City performance. Op-
in place to track tonnages collected through curbside tions for adopting a formal sustainable design standard
pick -up, community recycling events and drop -off at for City buildings will be considered and would be ap-
private businesses. Recycling tonnages will continue to plied to any new buildings as well as remodeling and
be monitored. expansion projects.
Recycling and Waste Reduction
The City of Woodbury requires trash haulers to provide U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection
curbside recycling service for residential customers, Agreement
including all single - family and multi - family units. The In 2007, the City Council endorsed the U.S. Conference
City Code outlines the requirements for both hauling of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. In joining
companies and residents. more than 780 other U.S. cities that have endorsed the
agreement, Woodbury has committed to take the fol-
City Buildings and Operation lowing three actions:
The City has committed to energy reduction and sus- • Strive to meet or beat the Kyoto Protocol targets (7
tainability in City buildings and operations through a percent greenhouse gas reduction from 1990 levels
• number of initiatives. Steps that have been taken include by 2012) through actions ranging from anti - sprawl
7 -22 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
land -use policies to urban forest restoration projects der existing laws including natural habitat, tree canopy,
to public information campaigns, drainage ways or excessive slopes. While these natural
• Encourage state and federal governments to enact features are presently disconnected, an opportunity
policies and programs to meet or beat the green- exists to reconnect these systems through revegetation
house gas emission reduction target suggested for to create continuous greenways that will function more
the United States in the Kyoto Protocol, like natural systems, creating better habitat and surface
• Encourage the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan water management.
greenhouse gas reduction legislation to establish a Land within this corridor will be a combination of public
national emission trading system. and private open space. Developable lands that contain
part of the greenway system should not lose density
Wildlife and Vegetation Resources but should plan development to minimally impact the
Planned Unit Development (PUD) greenway, preserving the greenway as permanent open
The purpose of the existing Planned Unit Development
space. It is intended that the greenway corridors will
work in conjunctionwith other open space preservation
ordinance is to encourage a more creative and efficient techniques such as those allowed by the PUD.
development of land and its improvements through the
preservation of natural features and amenities than is The greenway corridor map, Figure 7 -9, reflects pre -
possible under the more restrictive application of zon- ferred opportunities for the greenway corridor. The
ing requirements. The application of a PUD can also be actual physical location of the greenway corridor will be
utilized to support the use of low impact development delineated as property develops. This map uses lines to
(LID) concepts. The ordinance allows for modifications represent desired routes for the greenway, following such
from the zoning code such as non - standard lot sizes, natural features as wetlands, drainage ways, woodlands
private streets and driveways, reduced rights -of -way and and ridgelines. Also reflected on the map are routes that
street widths, zero lot lines and reduced building setbacks. may not contain significant natural resources, but could
The changes must meet the standards and purposes of be important in creating a continuous greenway corridor
the Comprehensive Plan while preserving the health, system. These areas have the potential to be restored or
safety and welfare of the citizens of the City. One of the may have existing easements for other purposes.
goals of the ordinance is to ensure concentration of open
space into more usable areas and preservation of natural Further delineation of the greenway corridors will be
resources. The ordinance also establishes standards for based on additional natural resource inventories done
granting approval including specific standards for open at the time of development. These inventories will help
space within a PUD. The development review process designate a continuous corridor that connects exist -
allows for proper implementation of this ordinance to mg wetlands, drainage ways, woods, natural areas, hill
successfully protect open space and preserve important crests and community parks. Appropriate widths for
wildlife and vegetation resources. the greenway will vary depending on habitat, scenic or
functional requirements placed on the particular piece.
Greenway Corridors Species requirements can vary from 100 feet for some
The purpose of designated greenway corridors is to songbirds and reptiles and amphibians, to 300 -600 feet
provide protection and preservation for corridors of for warblers and raptors. Hydrological systems such as
continuous open space throughout the City. Develop - wetlands and lakes should have an adequate buffer of
ment is already restricted in some areas, such as within undisturbed vegetation. No part of the greenway should
and near wetlands and lakes. The greenway corridor fall below 100 feet in width.
is intended to protect as permanent open space lands
that have other desired natural features or open space
characteristics which may not already be protected un-
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -23
Natural Resource Inventory City Parks — Trails
Legend i B (highest quality) Wetland & Stonn Ponding Areas -- Easements
B/C Future Regional Ponding Existing Gmenways
C Proposed Greenways
C/o original Parcels
® Priority Parcels
0 (lowest quality)
II NA
® Additional Parcels
j ILandfail Uakc.. ".
x
_ � '`� � ►1 ' 1. _ s �;;�,, � i ��
spa I
tl,! J vi
Art
1.= � _ s `.fir - �.. � �•
alX ie
4',1 1�
F
"r
a'1 w
9,r f;
os
c,ot:a Grcve
Map Prepared by Hoisingron Koegler Group Inc.
N
Figure 7 -9: Greenway Map
Woodbury 2030 Comprehensive Plan
7 -24 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
• Tree Preservation, Restoration and Management Parks and Open Space
Trees can function as windbreaks, snow fences and buf- The City of Woodbury has developed a comprehensive
fers between incompatible land uses. Trees reduce wind Parks, Trails and Recreation Plan (see Chapter 8 of this
erosion, improve water quality, screen unsightly areas, Comprehensive Plan) to guide the development of future
provide habitat for wildlife, reduce energy consumption, park and recreation amenities within the City. The City
enhance community identity and image and improve the Code requires park and open space dedication for new
quality of air and water. developments that is enforced through the development
The existing tree preservation ordinance establishes review process.
minimum size thresholds for significant trees and speci- In addition to land or money dedicated through devel-
fies replanting requirements for significant trees that are opment for parks and open space, Woodbury voters
removed. Trees that are lost to development that meet approved a $6 million referendum in 2005 to purchase
minimum size criteria must be replaced. The minimum sites that have significant natural features and to obtain
size threshold and replacement requirements vary based land adjacent to current parks and open space to create
on tree species, with higher value hardwood species larger open space and park areas.
such as oak and walnut requiring greater amounts of
replacement, and lesser value softwood species such as The City has also developed management plans for sev-
eral priority open space areas and encourages minimizing
cottonwood and box elder requiring less replacement.
Tree replacement should occur on the same site as the turf and related herbicide, pesticide and fertilizer use by
trees that were removed when possible. When same- Planting native vegetation on public lands.
site tree replacement is not possible, the City accepts Geologic Resources
tree planting on City property if desired by the City or
payment of a fee per diameter inch to be used for tree Karst Overlay District
planting activities elsewhere. Woodburywill continue to The City will develop a karst overlay district to be used
refine and enforce the current tree ordinance, as part of in areas known or suspected to have karst topography.
the Environmental Management ordinance. The karst overlay district will specify steps that must be
The City also has an active tree planting, trimming and taken before development occurs to analyze existing
management program. Management includes disease bedrock conditions and identify surficial karst features.
and pest control for Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. In Within the karst overlay district, soil borings will be
addition, a tree planting incentive program is also run by required to determine appropriate separation between
the City, reimbursing homeowners for planting specific any excavation and bedrockbefore development occurs.
tree species on private property. This information will be used to restrict the location of
structures and stormwater management facilities to avoid
The City also requires the planting of trees on a per lot conflicts with karst features. As development occurs
basis for residential development regardless if original within the karst overlay district, geologic information
trees were removed or not as well as tree planting on will be gathered and compiled to update maps and other
commercial properties through site plan review data sets that can increase knowledge of karst conditions
The City will also begin investigating the potential to and related problems in the area.
complete an urban tree canopy (UTC) cover assessment. Land Disturbance and Erosion and Sediment
The assessment of current cover could then be used to Control Ordinance and Permit
aid in goal setting and the determination of methods to
increase UTC throughout the City long -term. The Land Disturbance and Erosion and Sediment Con-
trol Ordinance ensures that soil erosion on development
and construction sites does not reach receiving waters.
The City issues a land disturbance permit before any
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -25
grading of more than 50 cubic yards takes place on a • The gravel mine would have to result in a public
site. Before a permit is issued, a detailed grading plan asset.
must be submitted. The grading plan is reviewed for • The property utilized for stormwater management
compliance with the City's ordinance and the National and greenway corridors would have to be dedicated
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System construction to the City in addition to the normal park dedica-
permit requirements. Inspectors visit active construction tion.
sites to ensure compliance.
• The gravel mining permit would have a sunset
Post Construction Soil Decompaction Program clause.
Benefits of a successful soil decompaction program It was also decided that development projects that use
after construction include improved plant growth and the naturally occurring aggregate material on site or
improved infiltration capacity of the soil. Ordinances or export the material as the area develops are preferable
policies supporting a soil decompaction program have to actual gravel mining operations.
been suggested as an item to include in the City's Surface
Water Management Plan and the Comprehensive Plan Surface Water Resources
by many entities including the Metropolitan Council,
watershed districts and the MPCA. There are many Surface Water Management Plan
challenges to implementing such a program including The City's SWMP is a comprehensive document that
the best time during the construction process to perform will be used to guide decision making regarding many
the decompaction and site constraints on residential of the concerns identified in the Natural Resource Issues
construction sites. The City of Woodbury will review section under Surface Water Resources. In particular,
established programs and determine if a program can the SWMP includes specific reference to the Impaired
be developed that can be implemented, monitored and Waters program and the City's commitment to the
enforced successfully. TMDL study process for the impaired waters within
Woodbury. The SWMP also incorporates all aspects
Aggregate Resources and requirements of the City's NPDES permit including
The Woodbury City Council identified gravel mining as the City's SWPPP and Nondegradation Review. The
a strategic issue in 2001, and held several workshops to SWMP also determines a structure for prioritizing the
discuss the issue. From those meetings, a set of criteria completion of lake management plans, with Powers Lake
was developed to guide the location of future gravel pits being the highest priority lake. The SWMP depends on
within the City limits. The criteria are as follows: an implementation program of ordinances, standards,
enforcement, an inspection and maintenance program
• A gravel mine must fit with City stormwater drain- and Capital Improvement Projects to be successfully
age plans and be able to interconnect with existing implemented. The SWMP is being completed in con -
stormwater drainage areas. junction with this Comprehensive Plan but is a separate
• After the gravel mine is exhausted, it would have to document. The SWMP is summarized in Chapter 12.
be able to be utilized as open space or a greenway
corridor that complies with the City's Comprehen- Design Guide
sive Plan. The requirements of the SWMP, appropriate ordinances
• The gravel mine would have to ultimately provide a and Woodbury design guidelines and standards for sur-
reduction in stormwater volumes delivered to Bailey face water management will be summarized in a Design
Lake or the downstream stormwater management Guide to aid in the development process and identify
system. criteria used in the review and approval process by the
City. The document will be available after the SWMP
is adopted.
7 -26 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
Environmental Management Ordinance phasis include resident participation in invasive species
The Environmental Management chapter of City Code removal and the planting of tamarack trees.
includes many ordinances designed to protect surface
water resources within the City. It includes the Shore- Powers Lake Management Plan
land Overlay Zone, Wetland Protection and Stormwater The South Washington Watershed District completed a
Management ordinances. The purpose of the chapter is Powers Lake Management Plan in 2000. This plan was
to preserve and enhance the quality of existing natural recently updated by the City because of the expanded
resources in the City of Woodbury. tributary drainage area east of St. John's Drive. The plan
presents water quality goals for Powers Lake to keep
Many of the ordinances within the Environmental phosphorus concentrations within ecoregion values
Management chapter will require updates after adoption and maintain current uses of the lake with an emphasis
of the SWMP including infiltration requirements and on fishing and aesthetic qualities. The implementation
stormwater management requirements for redevelop- methods include management practices such as ponding,
ment projects. erosion control, infiltration and aquatic plant manage-
ment. The first implementation project was completed
Northeast Area Alternative Urban Areawide i late 2008.
Review (NE Area AUAR)
The NE Area AUAR considers multiple potential land Floodplain Management
use scenarios for the northeast portion of the City along In 2001, the City of Woodbury enrolled as a participant
Interstate 94 and ManningAvenue in Valley Branch Wa- in the National Flood Insurance Program. The City has
tershed District. Consistent among these scenarios is the been in the Emergency Phase of the program while the
inclusion of a mix of land uses including business park, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
residential, retail and open space. The AUAR reviews completed floodplain maps for the City. FEMAreleased
concerns regarding karst topography and stormwater a preliminary flood insurance study and preliminary
management as well as open space and tree preserva- flood insurance rate maps for all of Washington County
tion and presents a mitigation plan that addresses these in 2007. The maps establish the 100 -year flood risk
issues. The study specifically addresses the area that zones — identifying high risk properties that have a one
drains to Fahlstrom Pond in Afton and to the Interstate percent annual chance of flooding — for many of the
94 ditch that is tributary to the St. Croix River. The lakes, wetlands and ponds in Woodbury. The National
AUARidentifies measures to reduce runoffvolumes with Flood Insurance Program requires that all cities adopt,
development, while protecting groundwater, to minimize enforce and administer a floodplain zoning ordinance
impacts downstream. utilizing the minimum standards set forth by the Min-
nesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at the
Tamarack Swamp Management time of formal map adoption under the state Floodplain
The Comprehensive Vegetation Survey of Tamarack Management Act.
Swamp, March 1999 summarizes the challenges of man-
agement of the Tamarack Swamp. The Ramsey -Wash- Chapter 25 of the Woodbury City Code contains the cur -
ington Metro Watershed District has studied various rent floodplain ordinance. The purpose of the ordinance
methods to preserve the valuable plant species found in is to promote the public health, safety and general welfare
the swamp while accommodating the increase in surface and to minimize the losses associated with flooding. This
water runoff from surrounding developments. The City ordinance will require updating within 2 years after the
will continue to work with the Ramsey- Washington adoption of the preliminary Flood Insurance Study and
Metro Watershed District to accomplish these goals. Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
New initiatives that could benefit from increased em- The City will assist residents regarding the requirements
of the National Flood Insurance Program, including an-
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 1 7 -27
swering questions regarding affected properties and the Chapter 10, Sanitary Sewer, of this Comprehensive Plan
Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) process. provides a detailed discussion of ISIS.
Groundwater Resources Nitrate Contamination
Surface Water Management Plan The Cottage Grove Area Nitrate Study Report done by
Washington County in 2003 hypothesized that urban
The SWMP described above under Surface Water development replacing agricultural activities in sensitive
Resources also addresses groundwater resources, spe- recharge areas would reduce the amount of nitrate in the
cifically issues related to ensuring the protection of groundwater over the long term. A significant amount
groundwater quality where surface water - groundwater of this land use conversion will occur in Woodbury over
interactions occur. The SWMP outlines goals and poll- the time period of this Comprehensive Plan. Public
ties as well as implementation steps for groundwater pro- education activities targeted towards proper use of lawn
tection that are consistent with the Washington County fertilizers will help reduce nitrate levels more quickly as
Groundwater Plan 2003 -2013. In addition, Chapter this land use conversion occurs.
11, Water Supply, of this Comprehensive Plan, includes
groundwater conservation and protection elements. Perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) Contamination
Wellhead Protection Plan The City of Woodbury will advocate for mitigation
and work with the Minnesota Department of Health,
The purpose of a wellhead protection program is to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and 3M and
ensure that the siting of public wells provides for clean inform residents regarding current issues. The City will
drinking water and that surrounding land uses pose also use the results of research to determine the location
a minimal threat for groundwater contamination. As of future municipal wells and appropriate locations for
new wells are developed, the City is required by the new private wells.
Minnesota Department of Health to identify wellhead •
protection areas. The City must also do potential con- Water Conservation
taminant source inventories for these areas. The City The most significant conservation efforts have revolved
has an approved Wellhead Protection Plan. As part of around modification ofthe water pricing structure. Other
the wellhead protection program, the City will develop a conservation initiative ideas have included an education
Wellhead Protection Ordinance as a next step in protect- effort, an internal audit of City practices, a rain sensor
ing groundwater quality and will update the ordinance program, the addition of an emergency watering restric-
as new municipal wells become necessary. tion, improved enforcement and use of drought tolerant
Individual Sewage Treatment Systems
soil amendments and turf on City projects. Some work
Management has proceeded on these ideas; however, more work is
needed in all areas. Another idea is the possibility of
The City o €Woodbury currently has approximately 600 a water auditing service being made available to large
individual sewage treatment systems (ISTS), most of irrigation system users and residents. A continued ef-
areas. The City has an agreement with Washington
which are located in the Rural Estate and Urban Reserve fort to explore the effectiveness of alternative landscap-
ing techniques may also yield benefits. In addition, to
County to perform the review ofplans for all new ISTS as promote aquifer conservation, the City will work on
well as the inspection of all existing systems. the poten- conservation measures with large water users on private
tial number ofnew systems within Woodburyis relatively wells. The Citywill continue to workwith the MPCA on
low; most new homes are planned to be served by sari- a mitigation plan for the 3M disposal site in southeast
tary sewer. In addition, the sanitary sewer in southern Woodbury that would minimize the need for extensive
Woodbury will be sized appropriately to accommodate groundwater extraction to conserve the aquifer.
service to the Rural Estate areas if necessary in the future.
7 -28 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection May 2009 City of Woodbury
Public Education and Involvement ter conservation strategies since 2005. Groundwater
An important implementation strategy for natural re- quality education has become significant recently with
source protection is educational outreach. The City of the discovery of PFBA contamination in groundwater
Woodbury has several programs that promote resource throughout Washington County. The City of Woodbury
protection among residents and businesses. will continue to utilize material produced by the Min-
nesota Department of Health and Minnesota Pollution
In the area of global resources, public education and Control Agency to educate residents.
outreach are important components for the successful
Partners and resources in educational outreach include
implementation ofprograms and strategies. Current City
the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the
initiatives that inform and promote efficient use of these
resources include the annual Environmental Landscape Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the Minnesota
Workshop, the Earth Day Recycling Event and publica- Department of Health, Master Gardeners, Washington
County, Washington Conservation District and water -
tion of the Green Times newsletter. The Environmental shed districts. Many departments and commissions at
Advisory Commission (EAC) sponsors and participates the City also cooperate on natural resource management
in a variety of programs to promote waste reduction,
composting and recycling including Woodbury Days issues including Parks, Engineering, Public Works, Plan-
and elementary school events. In addition, the Sustain- ning and Administration staff as well as the Environmen-
talAdvisory Commission, the Sustainability Committee
ability Committee, a subcommittee of the EAC also
and the Park and Recreation Commission.
sponsors programs to educate citizens on sustainable
resource use. Intergovernmental Cooperation
Public education programs and activities that promote Woodbury will continue to work with the Minnesota
wildlife and vegetation management include the Alter- Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Pol-
native Landscaping Grant Program, the Tree Planting lution Control Agency, the Minnesota Department
Incentive Program, the Environmental Landscape Work of Health, the University of Minnesota, Washington
shop, the Buckthorn Busting Program and articles in the County, Washington Conservation District, watershed
Woodbury City Update. districts and adjacent communities to protect natural
Public education and involvement is a priority in water resources and promote sustainability.
resource management. The City's NPDES permit has
specific education requirements that include an educa-
tional component related to each of the six Minimum
Control Measures listed in the permit.
The City has included an Educational Goals and Activi-
ties section in the SWPPP to specifically address these
requirements. The City will continue to support and be
a partner with organizations whose mission is to edu-
cate the public about surface water management issues
including Watershed Partners, specifically the Metro
Media Campaign.
An important implementation strategy for groundwa-
ter resource protection is public education. Education
covers both water quantity and water quality issues.
The City has been actively educating citizens on wa-
2030 Comprehensive Plan May 2009 Natural Resources /Environmental Protection 7 -29
This page
intentionally
left blank
7 -30 1 Natural Resources/ Environmental Protection DRAFT - April 2009 City of Woodbury
Solar
---- -- x panels
hL
InvMer � Ut�ity
Meta
I+amt PMMII
Appliances
i�ctor
[;er!�rator! 31
altcrnarer ��"',
Tnw�o
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance
Planning Commission Recommendation - September 21, 2009
53:f
�d _J
W66 burg
Chapter 24 ZONING
Article VI. Supplemental Performance Standards
Division 5. Alternative Energy Systems
24 -401 Scope.
This division applies to alternative energy systems in all zoning districts.
24 -402 Purpose and intent.
It is the goal of the city council, as expressed in the Comprehensive Plan, to provide a
sustainable quality of life for the city's residents, making careful and effective use of available
natural, human and economic resources and ensuring that resources exist to maintain and
enhance the quality of life for future residents. In accordance with that goal, the city finds that it
is in the public interest to encourage alternative energy systems that have a positive impact on
energy production and conservation while not having an adverse impact on the community.
Therefore, the purposes of this ordinance include:
(a) To promote rather than restrict development of alternative energy sources by removing
regulatory barriers and creating a clear regulatory path for approving alternative energy systems.
(b) To create a livable community where development incorporates sustainable design
elements such as resource and energy conservation and use of renewable energy.
(c) To protect and enhance air quality, limit the effects of climate change and decrease use of
fossil fuels.
(d) To encourage alternative energy development in locations where the technology is viable
and environmental, economic and social impacts can be mitigated.
24 -403 Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section:
Accessory means a system designed as a secondary use to existing buildings or facilities, wherein
the power generated is used primarily for on -site consumption.
Alternative energy system means a ground source heat pump, wind or solar energy system.
Building- integrated solar energy system means a solar energy system that is an integral part
of a principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or
substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building including, but not limited
to, photovoltaic or hot water solar systems contained within roofing materials, windows,
skylights and awnings.
1
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
Closed loop ground source heat pump system means a system that circulates a heat transfer i
fluid, typically food -grade antifreeze, through pipes or coils buried beneath the land surface or `!
anchored to the bottom in a body of water.
Closed loop ground source heat pump system means a system that circulates a heat transfer
fluid, typically food -grade antifreeze, through pipes or coils buried beneath the land surface or
anchored to the bottom in a body of water.
Flush- mounted solar energy system means a roof - mounted system mounted directly abutting
the roof. The pitch of the solar collector may exceed the pitch of the roof up to 5% but shall not
be higher than 10 inches above the roof.
Ground source heat pump system means a system that uses the relatively constant
temperature of the earth or a body of water to provide heating in the winter and cooling in the
summer. System components include open or closed loops of pipe, coils or plates; a fluid that
absorbs and transfers heat; and a heat pump unit that processes heat for use or disperses heat for
cooling; and an air distribution system.
Horizontal ground source heat pump system means a closed loop ground source heat pump
system where the loops or coils are installed horizontally in a trench or series of trenches no
more than 20 feet below the land surface.
Heat transfer fluid means a non -toxic and food grade fluid such as potable water, aqueous
solutions of propylene glycol not to exceed 20% by weight or aqueous solutions of potassium
acetate not to exceed 20% by weight.
Horizontal axis wind turbine means a wind turbine design in which the rotor shaft is parallel
to the ground and the blades are perpendicular to the ground.
Hub means the center of a wind generator rotor, which holds the blades in place and attaches
to the shaft.
tbtor
Z — " Rdor Diarreter
- Blade Hub
, Gear Generator
Daneter Novelle Fbtor
Hub Fixed Height
Fitch
Rbotor --
Tower
Bade
_ ..�i
Gearbox. Generator
Horizontal Axis Vertical Axis
Wind Turbine Coy figurations
2
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
• Hub height means the distance measured from natural grade to the center of the turbine hub.
Monopole tower means a tower constructed of tapered tubes that fit together symmetrically
and are stacked one section on top of another and bolted to a concrete foundation without support
cables.
Open loop ground source heat pump system means a system that uses groundwater as a heat
transfer fluid by drawing groundwater from a well to a heat pump and then discharging the water
over land, directly in a water body or into an injection well.
Passive solar energy system means a system that captures solar light or heat without
transforming it to another form of energy or transferring the energy via a heat exchanger.
Photovoltaic system means a solar energy system that converts solar energy directly into
electricity.
Residential wind turbine means a wind turbine of 10 kilowatt (kW) nameplate generating
capacity or less.
Small wind turbine means a wind turbine of 100 kW nameplate generating capacity or less.
Solar energy system means a device or structural design feature, a substantial purpose of
• which is to provide daylight for interior lighting or provide for the collection, storage and
distribution of solar energy for space heating or cooling, electricity generation or water heating.
Total height means the highest point above natural grade reached by a rotor tip or any other
part of a wind turbine.
Tower means a vertical structure that supports a wind turbine.
Utility wind turbine means a wind turbine of more than 100 kW nameplate generating
capacity.
Vertical axis wind turbine means a type of wind turbine where the main rotor shaft runs
vertically.
Vertical ground source heat pump system means a closed loop ground source heat pump
system where the loops or coils are installed vertically in one or more borings below the land
surface.
Wind energy system means an electrical generating facility that consists of a wind turbine,
feeder line(s), associated controls and may include a tower.
Wind turbine means any piece of electrical generating equipment that converts the kinetic energy
of blowing wind into electrical energy through the use of airfoils or similar devices to capture the
wind.
•
3
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendafion
September 21, 2009
24 -404 Ground source heat pump systems. •
(a) Zoning districts. Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with the standards in
this section are allowed as a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts.
(b) Standards.
(1) System requirements.
a. Only closed loop ground source heat pump systems utilizing heat transfer fluids as
defined in Section 24 -403 are permitted. Open loop ground source heat pump
systems are not permitted.
b. Ground source heat pump systems in public waters may be permitted as an
interim conditional use in accordance with Section 24 -407 subject to approval
from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and subject to written
consent of all property owners and/or approval by an association in accordance
with its adopted bylaws.
c. Ground source heat pump systems in water bodies owned or managed by the City
of Woodbury are not permitted.
(2) Setbacks.
a. All components of ground source heat pump systems including pumps, borings
and loops shall be set back at least 5 feet from interior side lot lines and at least 10 •
feet from rear lot lines.
b. Above - ground equipment associated with ground source heat pumps shall not be
installed in the front yard of any lot or the side yard of a corner lot adjacent to a
public right -of -way and shall meet all required setbacks for the applicable zoning
district.
(3) Easements. Ground source heat pump systems shall not encroach on public drainage,
utility roadway or trail easements.
(4) Noise. Ground source heat pump systems shall comply with Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency standards outlined in Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030.
(5) Screening. Ground source heat pumps are considered mechanical equipment and
subject to the requirements of Section 24- 307(a)(10).
(6) Deviations. Any deviation from the required standards of this ordinance may be
permitted through an interim conditional use permit in accordance with Section 24 -407.
(d) Safety. Ground source heat pumps shall be certified by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
and meet the requirements of the State Building Code.
•
4
Altemadve Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
• (e) Abandonment. If the ground source heat pump system remains nonfunctional or inoperative
for a continuous period of one year, the system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall
constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense
after a demolition permit has been obtained in accordance with the following:
(1) The heat pump and any external mechanical equipment shall be removed.
(2) Pipes or coils below the land surface shall be filled with grout to displace the heat
transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid shall be captured and disposed of in accordance
with applicable regulations. The top of the pipe, coil or boring shall be uncovered and
grouted.
(3) Lake ground source heat pump systems shall be completely removed from the bottom
of the body of water.
(f) Permits. A building permit and interim conditional use permit, if required, shall be obtained
for any ground source heat pump system prior to installation. Borings for vertical systems are
subject to approval from the Minnesota Department of Public Health.
24 -405 Wind energy systems.
(a) Zoning districts. Residential wind turbines in accordance with the standards in this
section are permitted accessory uses on lots at least 3 acres in size in the R -1, Urban Reserve,
and the R -2, Rural Estate; on lots at least 20 acres in size in the R -4, Urban Residential zoning
districts; and on lots at least 1.5 acres in size in the B -2, General Business, and the I -1, Light
Industrial provided the lot does not abut a residential zoning district. Wind energy systems are
not permitted in any other zoning districts.
(b) Standards.
(1) Number. No more than one wind energy system is permitted per parcel.
(2) Height. In the R -1, Urban Reserve, zoning district, a maximum hub height of 60 feet
is allowed as a permitted accessory use; additional height, up to 120 feet in total
height, may be permitted as an interim conditional use in accordance with Section 24-
207. In the R -2, Rural Estate, R -4, Urban Residential, B -2, General Business, and
1 -1, Light Industrial zoning districts, a maximum hub height of 45 feet is allowed as a
permitted accessory use. Additional height, up to 75 feet in total height, may be
permitted as an interim conditional use in accordance with Section 24 -207.
(3) Blade length. A maximum blade length of 15 feet is permitted.
(4) Roof mounting. Roof mounted wind turbines are not permitted.
(5) Setbacks. The base of the wind turbine tower shall be set back from all property lines
a distance equal to the hub height. Wind energy systems shall not be installed in the
•
5
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
front yard of any lot or in the side yard of a corner lot adjacent to a public right -of- •
way.
(6) Easements. Wind energy systems shall not encroach on public drainage, utility
roadway or trail easements.
(7) Noise. Wind energy systems shall comply with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
standards outlined in Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030 at all property lines.
(8) Screening. Wind energy systems are exempt from the requirements of Section 24-
307(a)(10).
(9) Aesthetics. All portions of the wind energy system shall be a non- reflective, non-
obtrusive color, subject to the approval of the Community Development Director. Only
monopole towers are permitted. The appearance of the turbine, tower and any other
related components shall be maintained throughout the life of the wind energy system
pursuant to industry standards. Systems shall not be used for displaying any advertising.
Systems shall not be illuminated.
(10)Feeder lines. The electrical collection system shall be placed underground within the
interior of each parcel. The collection system may be placed overhead near substations or
points of interconnection to the electric grid.
(I I )Deviations. Any deviation from the required standards of this ordinance may be
permitted through an interim conditional use permit in accordance with Section 24 -407.
(d) Safety.
(1) Standards and Certification.
a. Standards. Wind energy systems shall meet minimum standards such as
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61400 -2 or the American Wind
Energy Association's (AWEA) Small Wind Turbine Performance and Safety
Standard or other standards as determined by the Community Development
Director.
b. Certification. Wind energy systems shall be certified by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Small
Wind Certification Council or other body as determined by the Community
Development Director. The City reserves the right to deny a building permit for
proposed wind energy systems deemed to have inadequate certification or testing
for operation in a severe winter climate.
c. Maintenance. Wind energy systems shall be maintained under an agreement or
contract by the manufacturer or other qualified entity.
•
6
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
(2) Utility Connection. All grid connected systems shall have an agreement with the local
utility prior to the issuance of a building permit. A visible external disconnect must be
provided if required by the utility.
(e) Abandonment. If the wind energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a
continuous period of one year, the system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a
public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after a demolition
permit has been obtained. Removal includes the entire structure including foundations to below
natural grade and transmission equipment.
(f) Permits. A building permit and interim conditional use permit, if required, shall be obtained
for any wind energy system prior to installation.
24 -406 Solar energy systems.
(a) Zoning districts. Solar energy systems in accordance with the standards in this section
are allowed as a permitted accessory use in all zoning districts.
(b) Standards.
(1) Exemption. Passive or building- integrated solar energy systems are exempt from the
requirements of this section and shall be regulated as any other building element.
. (2) Minimum Lot Size. In the R -4, Urban Residential Zoning District, a minimum lot size
of 8,000 square feet is required for ground- mounted solar energy systems.
(3) Height. Roof - mounted solar energy systems shall comply with the maximum height
requirements in the applicable zoning district. Ground - mounted solar energy systems
shall not exceed 15 feet in height.
(4) Location. In residential zoning districts, ground- mounted solar energy systems are
limited to the rear yard. In non - residential zoning districts, ground- mounted solar
energy systems may be permitted in the front yard of any lot or the side yards on
corner lots but shall not encroach in the minimum 20 -foot landscaped area adjacent to
public rights -of -way.
(5) Setbacks. Ground - mounted solar energy systems including any appurtenant
equipment shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet from all property lines and a
minimum of 30 feet from all dwellings located on adjacent lots. Roof - mounted
systems shall comply with all building setbacks in the applicable zoning district and
shall not extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the building on which the system is
mounted.
(6) Roof mounting. Roof - mounted solar collectors shall be flush mounted on pitched
roofs. Solar collectors may be bracket mounted on flat roofs.
•
7
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
(7) Easements. Solar energy systems shall not encroach on public drainage, utility
roadway or trail easements.
(8) Screening. Solar energy systems shall be screened from view to the extent possible
without reducing their efficiency, but are exempt from the strict requirements of
Section 24- 307(a)(10). Screening may include walls, fences or landscaping.
(9) Maximum Area. In the R -4, Urban Residential, zoning district, ground- mounted solar
energy systems shall be limited to a maximum area of 200 square feet. In other
residential zoning districts, ground - mounted solar energy systems shall be limited to a
maximum area consistent with the accessory structure limitations in Section 24-
281(b) or no more than 25 percent of the rear yard, whichever is less.
(I O)Aesthetics. All solar energy systems shall use colors that blend with the color of the
roof or other structure. Reflection angles from collector surfaces shall be oriented
away from neighboring windows. Where necessary, screening may be required to
address glare.
(I I)Feeder lines. The electrical collection system shall be placed underground within the
interior of each parcel. The collection system may be placed overhead near substations or
points of interconnection to the electric grid.
(12)Deviations. Any deviation from the required standards of this ordinance may be
permitted through an interim conditional use permit in accordance with Section 24 -407.
(d) Safety.
(1) Standards and Certification.
a. Standards. Solar energy systems shall meet the minimum standards outlined by
the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) the American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating, and Air - conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), ASTM
International, British Standards Institution (BSI), International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC), International Organization for Standardization (ISO),
Underwriter's Laboratory (UL), the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation
(SRCC) or other standards as determined by the Community Development
Director.
b. Certification. Solar energy systems shall be certified by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Solar
Rating and Certification Corporation or other body as determined by the
Community Development Director. The City reserves the right to deny a building
permit for proposed solar energy systems deemed to have inadequate certification.
(2) Utility Connection. All grid connected systems shall have an agreement with the local
utility prior to the issuance of a building permit. A visible external disconnect must be
provided if required by the utility.
8
Altemative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
(e) Abandonment. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a
g3' Y p
continuous period of one year, the system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a
public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after a demolition
permit has been obtained. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment.
(f) Permits. A building permit and interim conditional use permit, if required, shall be obtained
for any solar energy system prior to installation.
24 -407 Interim conditional use permit.
Deviations to the standards in this division may be permitted as an interim conditional use in
accordance with Section 24 -45. In granting an interim conditional use permit, the city council
shall consider the criteria in Sections 24 -43 and 24 -45 and the following additional criteria
unique to alternative energy systems:
(a) That the deviation is required to allow for the improved operation of the alternative
energy system;
(b) That the alternative energy system has a net energy gain;
(c) That the alternative energy system does not adversely affect solar access to adjacent
properties;
(d) That the alternative energy system complies with all other engineering, building, safety
and fire regulations; and
(e) That the alternative energy system is found to not have any adverse impacts on the area,
including the health, safety and general welfare of occupants of neighboring properties and users
of public rights -of -way.
24 -408 Interpretation.
In interpreting this ordinance and its application, the provisions of these regulations shall be
held to be the minimum requirements for the protection of public health, safety and general
welfare. This ordinance shall be construed broadly to promote the purposes for which it was
adopted.
24 -409 Conflict.
This ordinance is not intended to interfere with, abrogate or annul any other ordinance, rule
or regulation, statute or other provision of law except as provided herein. If any provision of this
ordinance imposes restrictions different from any other ordinance, rule or regulation, statute or
provision of law, the provision that is more restrictive or imposes high standards shall control.
9
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
24 -410 Separability. .
If any part or provision of this ordinance or its application to any developer or circumstance
is judged invalid by any competent jurisdiction, the judgment shall be confined in its operation to
the part, provision or application directly involved in the controversy in which the judgment shall
be rendered and shall not affect or impair the validity of the remainder of these regulations or the
application of them to other developers or circumstances.
10
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
• Sec. 24 -132. R -1 urban reserve district.
(b) Permitted uses. Permitted uses are as follows:
S eFgY- systems -d clfueWr-es.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat oumo systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Wind energy systems on lots at least 3 acres in size uo to 60 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
(e) Height, setback and area requirements:
(1) Maximum height: Two and one -half stories or 35 feet, except for silos, grain elevators,
windmills, water towers, church roofs or spires, etc.
(g) Uses by interim conditional use permit. The following uses are allowed by an interim
conditional use permit:
. Wind energy systems on lots at least 3 acres in size uo to 120 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
Sec. 24 -133. R -2 single - family estate district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat puma systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Wind energy systems on lots at least 3 acres in size un to 45 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
(h) Uses by interim conditional use permit. The following uses are allowed by interim
conditional use permit:
Wind energy systems on lots at least 3 acres in size un to 75 feet in height 'in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
•
11
Altemative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendatlon
September 21, 2009
Sec. 24 -134. R -4 urban residential district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Wind energy systems on lots at least 20 acres in size un to 45 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24405.
Solar energy systems and -saw -ar otru-tlaras in accordance with Section 24 -406.
(e) Interim conditional use permit. The following uses are allowed by interim conditional use
permit:
(1) Farmers' market at the Bielenberg Sports Center.
(2) Telecommunications tower as regulated in section 24 -313.
Wind energv systems on lots at least 20 acres in size up to 75 feet in height in
accordance with Section 24 -405.
Sec. 24 -135. B -1 office park district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
(1) Exterior.
a. Off - street parking and loading subject to article VI, division 4 of this chapter.
b. Signs subject to chapter 18.5.
c. Electrical generators.
d. Bicycle racks and transit shelters.
e. Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
f. Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
Sec. 24 -136. B -2 general business district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are the same as allowed in the B -1
district. In addition, the following are also permitted accessory uses:
Adult uses [see Code section 11 -300 et seq.]
Wind energy systems on lots at least 1.5 acres in size un to 45 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24405.
(d) Uses by conditional use permit. The following uses are allowed by conditional use permit:
m ethots- ir. ,
squafe -as- an int .
12
Alternative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
(e) Interim conditional use permit. The following uses are allowed by interim conditional use
permit:
Outdoor temp_ orary /seasonal sales or farmer's markets in shoe_ Ding centers over 100.000
square feet.
Wind energy systems on lots at least 1.5 acres in size un to 75 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
(fe) Height, setback and area requirements.
Sec. 24 -138. FD -1 freeway mixed use district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
(4) Ground source heat DumD systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
(5) Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24406.
Sec. 24 -139. FD -2 freeway transition district.
• (c) Permitted Aaccessory uses. ^ eees s„. -, uses allow inel de: Permitted accessory uses are
as follows:
Ground source heat puma systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
Sec. 24 -140. FD -3 freeway special impact district.
(d) Permitted Accessory uses: Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat numD systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
13
0
Altemative Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
Sec. 24 -141. FD -4 freeway commercial impact district.
(c) Permitted Accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
(1) Adult uses .
(2) Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
(3) Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
Sec. 24 -142. I -1 light industrial district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Wind energy systems on lots at least 1.5 acres in size uv to 45 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
(e) Interim conditional use hermit. The following uses are allowed by interim conditional use
permit:
Wind energy systems on lots at least 1.5 acres in size up to 75 feet in height in accordance
with Section 24 -405.
(fe) Height, setback and area requirements.
Sec. 24 -143. BC business campus district.
(d) Permitted Accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses areas follows:
Ground source heat pump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Solar energy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
14
Allemotive Energy Systems Ordinance Planning Commission Recommendation
September 21, 2009
Sec. 24 -144. CC city center district.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are those existing on April 14, 1971
within the boundaries of the city center. In addition, the following are permitted accessory
uses:
Adult uses.
Ground source heat Dump systems in accordance with Section 24 -404..
Solar eneruv systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.,
Sec. 24 -146. MX Mixed Use Overlay District.
(e) Permitted Aaccessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
Ground source heat Dumb systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.
Solar ener2v systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
• Sec. 24 -147. MCD, Medical Campus District.
(c) Permitted accessory uses. Permitted accessory uses are as follows:
(1) Exterior as an accessory use to the primary use.
g. Ground source heat DumD systems in accordance with Section 24 -404.,
h. Solar enemy systems in accordance with Section 24 -406.
Sec. 24 -271. . Reserved.
cei., o sy a nd s stf 3c Ali i. a peFm , in all districAs id
the -sys e:n is :n Iianee with mfinimunn !8t- requir-ements-and sethaekS:
Sec. 24 -283. Height limitation and setbacks for certain accessory structures.
(a) Accessory structures such as wind &, antennas or other similar structures shall be limited
to 45 feet in height in all districts. Such structures shall be so constructed as to have a
minimum setback equal to the height of the structure.
•
15
Woodbury Minnesota - Alternative Energy Ordinance Page 1 of 1
City of Woodbury
8301 Valley Creek Road
W0 a
Search Our Site:
Minnesota Woodbury, MN 55125 GO!
(651) 714 -3500
Thursday, July 15, 2010
'IYnY.I II "'4 "U I + Y 14 P W NiP pP,V!
t� a � s e � L a a1 • i IY'
Online Services +
City .Government +
Parks & Recreation + Alternative Energy Ordinance
Planning. Zoning & +
Inspections The Woodbury City Council approved an alternative
Economic Development + energy ordinance at its Oct. 14, 2009, meeting. The
ordinance addresses all forms of alternative energy,
Environment + including solar, geothermal and wind turbines.
Garbage & Recycling
Compost site The ordinance serves as a guide for Woodbury
Sustainability residents and businesses that would like to take
Water quality advantage of renewable sources to meet or
Water Restrictions n supplement their energy Conservation pp needs. For each mode of
Environmental Advisory alternative energy production, the ordinance
Commission regulates what types of systems are allowed, where
they may be located, and other significant criteria.
Police & fire +
Streets & utilities + In 2008, the City Council directed staff to research and draft an Alternative
Transit + Energy Systems Ordinance. The request was prompted by the South
Jabs & volunteerism + Washington County School District's interest in installing a wind turbine at .
the new East Ridge High School. Rather than regulating only wind energy
Community Events + systems, the Council requested a broader approach to also encompass
Business Directory + solar, biomass, and geothermal systems.
The ordinance is prefaced with a purpose statement based on the 2030
Comprehensive Plan. Sections within the ordinance address ground source
heat pumps (geothermal energy), solar energy systems, and wind energy
systems. Each section defines where the systems are allowed (zoning),
establishes standards, and addresses safety and abandonment of the
systems.
The city will defer discussion on utility scale wind turbines until 2010 so staff
can gather information on the installation, operation and efficiency of 11
turbines being installed by the Minnesota Municipal Utility Association in
2009. These installations will provide a unique opportunity to determine the
effects of the turbines related to previously identified concerns such as noise,
shadow flicker, and ice throw.
Below is a link to the approved Alternative Energy Ordinance.
Alternative Energy Ordinance In (236 KB)
•
http: / /www.ci. woodbury. mn. us / environ /susalternativeenergy.html 7/15/2010
Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 1 of 3
City of Woodbury
WOO 8301 Valley Creek Road
Search Our Site:
innescito Woodbury, MN 55125 I
ry GO.
(651)714 -3500
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Online Services +
City Government +
Parks & Recreation + Sustainability Idea List
Planning, Zoning & +
inspections
Economic Development + Every Day Sustainability Landscaping
Environment + Green Cleaning Energy Conservation
Garbage & Recycling
Compost Site Build or Remodel Reduce Waste and Recycle
Sustainability Sustainably y
Water quality
Water Restrictions & s You Can Do to Make Earth Sustainable Food and 25 Things g
Environmental Advisory Products Better (PDF)
Commission
Police & fire + Every Day Sustainability
Streets & Utilities +
Transit + • Take the Minnesota Energy Challenge! By taking the Energy
. .lobs & voluntearism + Challenge, you are agreeing to take steps to reduce carbon dioxide
Community Events + emissions -- and saving money on your utility bills.
• Sign up for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's Living
Business Directory + Green 365 Newsletter
• Do It Green! Minnesota (formerly The Twin Cities Green Guide) is
a guidebook that helps educate Minnesotans about green and
sustainable living and building a healthy, local community. The web
site provides extensive information from the guidebook, and a Green
Community Calendar for Minnesota.
• GreenerChoices.org is hosted by Consumers Union, the non - profit
publisher of Consumer Reports. Greener Choices.org was created to
provide credible, in -depth information on green products, services,
and lifestyles.
(Back to Top)
Landscaping
Minnesota is home to a variety of native plants that provide a low
maintenance and beautiful landscape while eliminating the need for fertilizers
and excessive water use in your garden. Check out these local resources for
more information and ideas on planting your native garden.
• Six things you can do to help save our local lakes and
wetlands (Provided by the Ramsey - Washington Metro Watershed
District)
• The Blue Thumb site is an educational resource for planting a native
garden, rain garden, or for shoreline stabilization
• • Landscaping with Native Plants is published by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources
• The University of Minnesota Extension Service Master Gardeners
http: / /www.ci.woodbury .mn.us /environ/susideas.html 8/3/2010
Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 2 of 3
offer information on the best plants for tough sites, including rain
gardens in their publication: "The Best Plants for 30 Tough Sites"
• Do- It- Yourself or Purchase a Rain Barrel — Rain barrels offer a
resourceful way to keep rainwater on your property that may be later
used to water your gardens while reducing your water bill
• Learn How to Compost waste produced in your home and yard
(Back to Top)
Green Cleaning
• Protect your health and the environment by switching to green
cleaning products in your home or business. Try these Non -Toxic
Cleaning Recipes from the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency (PDF)
(Back to Top)
Energy Conservation
• A Do- It- Yourself Guide to Sealing and Insulating with Energy
Star (PDF). Take simple steps to reduce your energy usage and
decrease Minnesota's carbon dioxide emissions.
• Take the Minnesota Energy Challenge. Take simple steps to
reduce your energy usage and decrease Minnesota's carbon dioxide
emissions.
• Buy renewable energy through Excel Energy's Windsource
Program
• The Energy Star program offers information on how to save
money and protect the environment through energy efficient products
and practices
• Xcel Energy's Save Energy and Money Web site will help to
analyze energy use for your entire home and learn ways to increase
efficiency
(Back to Top)
Build or Remodel Sustainably
• Woodbury Goes Green Loan Program
• Where to Find Green Building Products, The Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency has compiled a directory of green building products
and resources.
• Green Building Case Studies in Minnesota
• Residential Green Building
The MPCA has compiled an extensive resource for residents who are
interested in nearly any aspect of green building including renewable
energy and conservation, landscaping, green building and
remodeling, and financing, etc.
• The U.S. Green Building Council
• Minnesota GreenStar Certified Green Homes and Remodeling
• The Natural Built Home is a valuable resource for purchasing safe
and sustainable building supplies in Minnesota
(Back to Top) .
Reduce Waste and Recycle
http: / /www.ci. woodbury .mn.us /environ/susideas.htrnl 8/3/2010
Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 3 of 3
• Washington County Residential Disposal Guide
• The Twin Cities Free Market is a listing service for residents who
want to give or get free reusable goods for the home, garage and
garden. It is partially funded by Washington County, and is part of an
effort to reduce the amount of reusable goods being thrown away.
• The Rethink Recycling Web site provides information on
environmentally responsible purchasing and disposal decisions. Learn
more about how to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
• Find out more about Reducing Your Waste at home or on the road.
• The Recycling Association of MN (RAM) Web site is your resource
for recycling and finding recycled products in Minnesota.
(Back to Top)
Sustainable Food and Products
• The Minnesota Grown Directory can be used to find fresh
produce, meat, trees, shrubs, flowers, Christmas trees and many
other products. The Minnesota Grown program is a partnership
between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and nearly 1,000
Minnesota growers and processors that provide quality locally grown
products.
• The Woodbury Farmers' Market is operated as a satellite market of
the St. Paul Farmers' Market. Check out the Web site for market
location and times.
• Learn about Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Farms.
Each spring, local farms offer "shares" (memberships) to individuals
who are interested in receiving weekly or biweekly deliveries of
. organically grown produce during the growing season. The annual
CSA Farm Directory is available through the Land Stewardship
Project at: http: // www. landstewardshipproject .org /csa.htmi
• The Eat Well Guide provides an easy and comprehensive way to
search for restaurants, stores, and farms that provide sustainable
food options. The database is continually updated, and can be used
to search locally, or throughout the U.S. and Canada if you are
traveling.
• The Blue Sky Guide provides information on local sustainable
retailers and several coupons at a minimal cost.
• Use the Green Routes Web site to find unique places to eat, play,
shop, sleep, and learn.
(Back to Top)
•
http: / /www.ci.woodbury .mn.us /environ/susideas.html 8/3/2010
Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 1 of 3
City of Woodbury
W.. t', ' 8301 Valley Creek Road
Search Our Site:
Min esota Woodbury, MN 55125 GOO
(651)714 -3500
Tuesday, August 3 2010
Online Services +
Ctty Government +
Parks & Recreation + Sustainability Initiatives
Planning, Zoning & +
inspections The city's Sustainability Initiative started with the Energy Conservation Task
Economic Development + Force, a citizens group appointed by the City Council in January 2005. The
task force was charged with formulating a policy to guide the city's decisions
Environment + regarding energy use and spending. Areas of focus included conservation
Garbage & Recycling measures, alternative energy sources, and setting specific goals in the area
Compost Site of energy conservation.
Sustainability
Water Quality After compiling extensive data from energy experts, visiting "green"
Water Restrictions n buildings, and researching policy Issues, it became Conservation g g p y apparent to the task
Environmental Advisory force that the city might be best served by addressing energy conservation in
Commission the broader context of sustainability.
Police & Fire + In February of 2006, the Energy Task Force presented its recommendations
streats & Utilities + to the City Council, one of which was to form a "Sustainability" subcommittee
Transit + of the Environmental Advisory Commission.
Jobs & volunteerism +
Community Events + The city's sustainability initiatives include:
Business Directory t
Sustainability Resolution Sustainability Critical Success
(PDF) Factor
Environmental Excellence Green Times Newsletter
Awards
Water Conservation City Hall Remodeling Project
Initiatives
2030 Comprehensive Plan Recycling Program
Update
Annual Landscape Grants Energy Conservation in City
Buildings
Tree Incentive Program 2007 Community Survey
Rain Barrel Pilot Program
Sustainability Critical Success Factor
The City Council has identified seven critical success factors as crucial to
Woodbury's success as a community. These are the guiding principles that
• govern the council's strategic planning for the city's future. In May 2007, the
Council adopted the Sustainability Committee's proposal to change the
Natural Environment Critical Success Factor to "Sustainability" with the
following description:
http: / /www.ci. woodbury. mn .us /environ/susinitiatives.html 8/3/2010
Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 2 of 3
Woodbury strives to be a sustainable community that promotes community
health and wellness through the protection of the environment. The city
assesses and improves its development practices, city and community
energy use, and use of its natural resources in order to not use resources at
the expense of future generations. The city's role is to establish and
implement policies, guidelines, goals and strategic actions to protect air and
water quality, preserve natural areas, conserve energy, and reduce waste.
(Back to Top)
Environmental Excellence Awards
The City of Woodbury Environmental Excellence Awards were established in
2008 to recognize businesses, organizations, and individuals that are making
Woodbury a more sustainable community through innovative programs and
practices that demonstrate environmental leadership. The awards are
presented annually at the Business Town Meeting.
(Back to Top)
City Hall Remodeling Project
The City Hall expansion and remodeling project, completed in fall 2007,
included many green features including a geothermal heating and cooling
system for the new addition, a green roof, and use of permeable pavers for
some parking areas. The building also optimizes a south - facing exposure by
providing a natural light public corridor along the south side of the building. In
addition, contractors and city staff recycled and reused as many materials
from the existing building as possible including ceiling tiles, counter tops, and
carpet.
(Back to Top)
2030 Comprehensive Plan Update
The City Council has directed staff to incorporate sustainability into the
comprehensive plan update, which began in May 2007.
(Back to Top)
Energy Conservation in City Buildings
The city has implemented a comprehensive energy conservation policy that
promotes energy conservation and efficiency and the use of alternative
energy resources. As part of the energy action plan, a list of action items has
been developed that are currently ongoing and coincide with a desired
timeframe for completion.
(Back to Top)
Annual Landscape Grants
The Alternative Landscape Grant Program encourages the use of native
landscaping to improve water quality through the creation of rainwater
gardens or natural buffers adjacent to ponds and wetlands. Native plants are
also encouraged in lieu of turf grass or impervious surfaces.
(Back to Top)
2007 Community Survey
The 2007 Community Survey marked the first year that the survey •
included questions on sustainability, providing an initial measurement of
citizen awareness of the term sustainability, and related issues.
http: / /www.ci. woodbury. mn .us /environ/susinitiatives.html 8/3/2010
• Woodbury Minnesota Sustainability Page 3 of 3
(Back to Top)
For additional information about Woodbury's sustainability initiatives, send
an e-mail to: sustainability @ci.woodbury.mn.us.
•
http: / /www.ei. woodbury. mn .us /environ/susinitiatives.html 8/3/2010
Burnsville, NIN - Official Website - Sustainability Page 1 of 2
Home ! News ! Calendar Documents ! Contact Us
Search Government ( Residents i Business I About Burnsville
You are here: Home > Residents > All Departments > SUstainability
Green Guide Brochure Sustainability
Green Guide Book
Green Tips The City of Burnsville completed a year -long
Sustainability Tips sustainability review as part of its governance process
in 2007. The process included input from a broad array
u „, ,��,,,,, ,,;, ,,, i ld; q ill11 1 , ,, , „ , of experts and stakeholders. By the end of the process,
IL
the city developed 14 priority areas of sustainability
Request Services VIL j called Best Practices Areas (BPA's). During 2008, city
or report an issue. staff worked with a consultant team to develop a more
detailed sustainability guide plan based on the 14
Lid. i BPA's. The guide plan provides practical ideas,
g - A tl _ activities and strategies for the city organization and the
Sign Up to receive = community that would make Burnsville more
agendas, minutes - sustainable in future years. The Sustainability Guide
news etc. Plan is aligned with the city's environmental end
statement and the Council's commitment to
sustainability, which states:
"The City of Burnsville will promote development that maintains or enhances economic
opportunity and community well -being while protecting and restoring the natural environment upon which
people and economies depend. Sustainability meets the needs of the present without compromising
the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
Documents:
Sustainabilitv Guide Plan
Green Guide Book
Green Guide Brochure
Sustainabilitv Tips
Fact Sheets:
Sustainable Food Choices
Sustainable Enerav
Product Stewardship
Renewable Enerav
Related Links:
Green Tips
Dakota Vallev Recvclino
Low Impact Livina
Conservation International
Do It Green! Minnesota
NextStep - MN Sustainable Communities Network
The Global Footprint Network
Redefinina Proaress
http:// www. ci .bumsville.mn.us /index.aspx ?NID =842 8/3/2010
S ustai nab ility G Plan
BURNSVILLE
N�
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
City Council
Elizabeth Kautz, Mayor
Charlie Crichton
Dan Gustafson
Dan Kealy
Liz Workman
Mary Sherry
Consultants City Staff
Emmons & Olivier Resources, Inc. Craig Ebeling, City Manager
Sustainability Associates Tammy Omdal, Deputy City Manager /Chief Financial Officer
Alliance for Sustainability Tom Hansen, Deputy City Manager /Operations
Biko Associates, Inc. Jenni Faulkner, Community Development Director
Center for Energy and Environment Deb Garross, Planner
Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. Terry Schultz, Parks and Natural Resources Director
Eureka Recycling Bud Osmundson, City Engineer /Public Works Director
Minnesota Renewable Energy Society Jeremy Strehlo, Engineer
Sanders, Wacker, Bergly, Inc. Sue Bast, Environmental Specialist
Transit for Livable Communities
City of Burnsville
100 Civic Center Parkway Burnsville, MN 55337 -3817
952 -895 -4400
www.burnsville.or
• • ! 1
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................. ............................... I Strategy 4 — Promote Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure ..... ......... 33
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................35
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing .................... ............................... 5 Possible Partners & Funding Sources ....................................................... 38
Strategy I — Focus on City Services ............................. ............................... 6 Performance Indicators ............................................................................. 38
Strategy 2 — Engage Residents, Businesses, and
Institutions................................................................... ............................... 6 Renewable Energy ..................................................... ............................... 39
Implementation Activities ............................................. ............................... 7 Strategy 1 — Utilize Solar Energy ................................. .............................40
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................10 Strategy 2 — Utilize Biofuels and Hybrid Technologies .............................41
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................10 Strategy 3 — Utilize Geothermal Systems ................................................... 41
Strategy 4 — Evaluate Wind Energy Potential ............... .............................42
Product Stewardship .................................................... .............................11 Implementation Activities ........................................................................... 43
Strategy I — Identify Partnerships with Businesses and Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................47
Organizations ................................................................ .............................12 Performance Indicators ............................................................................. 47
Strategy 2 — Build Support through Education ............. .............................12
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................13 Energy Efficiency ...................................................................................... 49
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................14 Strategy 1 — Increase Energy Efficiency of City Buildings ........................ 50
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................14 Strategy 2 — Educate Businesses and Residents.......... ............................... 50
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................51
Greenhouse Gas Reduction ......................................... .............................15 Possible Partners & Funding Sources ....................................................... 54
Strategy 1— Reduce City Carbon Emissions ................. .............................16 Performance Indicators ............................................................................. 54
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................19
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................20 Sustainable Building Practices ................................................................. 55
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................20 Strategy 1 — Evaluate and Maintain Existing Stock of Buildings...............56
Strategy 2 — Follow LEED -NC Standards (or B3) for New
Sustainable Land Use .................................................. .............................21 Commercial Construction .......................................................................... 56
Strategy I — Promote Awareness and Education of Strategy 3 — Partner with Community and Businesses to Educate
Sustainable Land Use ................................................... .............................22 and Empower................................................................ .............................56
Strategy 2 — Conduct a Baseline Analysis of Existing Land Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................58
Uses ............................................................................... .............................22 Possible Partners & Funding Sources........................ ............................... 61
Strategy 3 — Develop a Shared Vision for Sustainable Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................61
LandUse ....................................................................... .............................23
Strategy 4 — Develop and Implement a Sustainable Land Community Health ....................................................... .............................63
Use Action Plan ............................................................ .............................23 Strategy 1— Promote Healthy Living Opportunities through City
ImplementationActivities .............................................. .............................24 Media ......................................................................................................... 64
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................30 Strategy 2 — Increase Opportunities for Safe and Convenient Biking
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................30 and Walking ............................................................................................... 65
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................66
Sustainable Transportation ......................................... .............................31 Possible Partners & Funding Sources ....................................................... 68
Strategy 1— Increase Transit Ridership and Access to Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................68
Transit......................................................................... ............................... 32
Strategy 2 — Reduce Drive Alone Trips ....................... ............................... 32 Recycling and Waste Reduction ................................ ............................... 69
Strategy 3 — Improve Transportation to Burnsville Schools ...................... 33 Strategy 1 — Reduce Waste in City Operations ........... ............................... 70
Strategy 2 — Increase Residential Recycling & Waste Reduction .............. 70
Strategy 3 — Promote Commercial and School Recycling &
WasteReduction ......................................................... ............................... 71
Implementation Activities ............................................ ............................... 72
Possible Partners & Funding Sources ........................ ..................... ........... 75
Performance Indicators .............................................. ............................... 75
Healthy Urban Forests ................................................. .............................77
Strategy I — Increase Tree Cover and Diversity ......... ............................... 78
Strategy 2 — Reduce Tree Loss .................................... ............................... 79
Strategy 3 — Reduce Maintenance Needs ...................... .............................80
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................81
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................83
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................84
Sustainability Education .............................................. .............................85
Strategy 1— Empower the Public through Education to
Create a Sustainable Future ......................................... .............................86
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................87
Possible Partners & Funding Sources .......................... .............................88
Performance Indicators ................................................ .............................88
Surface& Groundwater Resources ............................. .............................89
Strategy I — Promote Infiltration and Water Quality
Protection ..................................................................... .............................90
Strategy 2 — Sustainable Use of Groundwater Suppl y . .............................91
Strategy 3 — Maintenance of the Stormwater Management
System ........................................................................... .............................92
Strategy 4 — Education and Stewardship .................... .............................92
Implementation Activities .............................................. .............................94
Possible Partners & Funding Sources ......................... ............................100
Performance Indicators ................ ............................... ............................100
Innovative Opportunities ............. ............................... ............................101
Strategy 1— Leverage Local support ........................... ............................102
Strategy 2 — Support Sustainable Food Systems .......... ............................102
Implementation Activities .............. ............................... ............................103
Possible Partners & Funding Sources ......................... ............................105
Performance Indicators ................ ............................... ............................105
Sustainability Guide Plan
Introduction
The City of Burnsville completed a year -long sustainability review as part of its governance process in 2007. The process included input
from a broad array of experts and stakeholders. By the end of the process, the city developed 14 priority areas of sustainability called Best
Practices Areas (BPA's). During 2008, city staff worked with a consultant team to develop a more detailed sustainability guide plan based
on the 14 BPA's. The guide plan provides practical ideas, activities and strategies for the city organization and the community that would
make Burnsville more sustainable in future years. The Sustainability Guide Plan is aligned with the city's environmental end statement
and the Council's commitment to sustainability, which states:
"The City of Burnsville will promote development that maintains or enhances economic opportunity and
community well -being while protecting and restoring the natural environment upon which people and
economies depend. Sustainability meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of
future generations to meet their own needs."
The fourteen BPA's include: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Sustainable Building Practices
Product Stewardship Community Health
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Recycling and Waste Reduction
Sustainable Land Use Healthy Urban Forests
Sustainable Transportation Sustainability Education
Renewable Energy Surface & Ground Water Resources
Energy Efficiency Innovative Opportunities
Each BPA includes a brief narrative on the subject area followed by a number of strategies to achieve sustainability. Each strategy, in turn,
lists specific activities to support the strategy — including a brief description, responsible department, timeframe, possible costs and
potential benefits. Again, not all activities and strategies need be tried at once. The activities listed as "initial plan" are already under way
— or soon will be — because of Council authorization in October of 2008. "Short term" activities are those that may take place in less than
five years; "long term" in more than five years.
Implementation Stratevv for the Guide Plan
The width and breadth of a comprehensive sustainability plan requires careful implementation planning. Success depends on funding,
certainly, but perhaps more so on the commitment of staff, elected leaders, and the community to make it a priority. Burnsville is at the
leading edge of a growing national commitment to sustainable practices. However, overselling its benefits or underselling its costs will
1
only undermine the commitment demonstrated by all parties so far. The following approaches to implementing the Sustainability Guide
Plan are recommended to enhance plan success:
1. Establish an organizational guide plan team
Since sustainability practices cross through every city department, it's vital that a motivated member of each affected
department be part of an ongoing team. The team's goal will be to follow through on sustainability commitments,
coordinate with other departments and outside partners, and make recommendations on implementing sustainable practices
in their areas.
2. Establish a sensible timeline for BPA implementation
The City Council has already approved initial implementation of the "low hanging fruit" sustainable practices. These
low /no cost activities are either underway now or will be in 2009. Otherwise a flexible implementation schedule is
recommended for the balance of the plan. Each BPA action is divided into either a "long" or "short" term strategy. A short
term strategy is defined as being implemented in less than five years; a long term strategy in more than five years.
3. A mix of funding sources must be obtained to implement the guide plan
Funding is a key challenge for most sustainability initiatives. Occasionally, funding can be an easy choice. For example,
making an upfront investment in an energy saving lighting retrofit with a guaranteed payback in two years is a simple
decision. However, most decisions are more complicated and many more expensive. Staff recommends the following
funding priorities be applied to guide plan implementation:
1) Grants must be vigorously pursued and considered the first funding priority
2) Existing funding sources committed to sustainable practices and congruent with Council priorities should be the
second priority
3) Activities with a reliable and persuasive payback period for the initial investment
4) Activities where significant cost sharing with private or public sector partners would exist and council approval
was obtained
5) Funding obtained solely through the City's annual budget process
4. A staff person should be identified as the Sustainabilitv Coordinator
A staff person needs to be the focus for City sustainability practices. The person would coordinate the guide plan team,
apply for related grants, seek out private and public sector partners, and prepare sustainability proposals for Council
consideration.
A small amount of funding is included in the 2009 budget for part time sustainability coordination work. This will free up
about one quarter of the Environmental Specialist's time to manage the City's sustainability effort. It will be important,
through a combination of grants and/or city support, to fund an expanded sustainability coordinator position in the future if
plan goals are to be met.
2
• 0 • 1
1'' ' j I'� I' Finally, it would seem an excellent task for the Parks and Natural Resources Commission (PNRC)
to provide a forum for community input into the city's Sustainability Guide Plan. To accommodate
this, an annual sustainability progress report would be prepared by staff and reviewed by the PNRC.
The Commission would be charged with gathering community feedback, and recommending
changes to the Sustainability Guide Plan for City Council consideration. This progress report could
then be utilized to update City Council, staff, and the broader community on the status of
Burnsville's sustainability efforts.
3
�X�SLo�
EXCELSIOR CODE -- APPENDIX E, ZONING § 28 -4
ARTICLE 28. WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS)
Sec. 28 -1. Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to establish standards and procedures by which the installation and
operation of wind energy conversion systems (WECS) shall be governed within the city.
Sec. 28 -2. Application.
(a) Interim use. Wind energy conversion systems may be allowed as an interim use, subject to the
regulations and requirements of this article, provided the property upon which the system is to be located
is zoned commercial or public and is constructed and maintained on any parcel of at least two and
one -half acres in size.
(b) Declaration of conditions. The planning commission may recommend and the city council may
impose such conditions on the granting of a WECS interim use permit as may be necessary to carry out
the purpose and provisions of this article.
(c) Site plan drawing. All applications for a WECS interim use permit shall be accompanied by a
detailed site plan drawn to scale and dimensioned, displaying the information as specified in article 9 of
this Appendix E and the following:
(1) Location and height of all buildings, structures, above - ground utilities and trees on the lot,
including both existing and proposed structures and guy wire anchors.
(2) Location and height of all adjacent buildings, structures, above - ground utilities and trees located
within 350 feet of the exterior boundaries of the property in question.
(3) Sketch elevation drawing of the premises accurately depicting the proposed WECS and its
relationship to structures on the subject site and adjacent lots.
Sec. 28 -3. Code compliance.
(a) Compliance with state building code. Standard drawings of the structural components of the wind
energy conversion system and support structures, including base and footings shall be provided along
with engineering data and calculations to demonstrate compliance with the structural design provisions
of the state building code. Drawings and engineering calculations shall be certified by a Minnesota
licensed engineer.
(b) Compliance with National Electrical Code. WECS electrical equipment and connections shall be
designed and installed in adherence to the National Electrical Code as adopted by the city.
Sec. 28 -4. Manufacturing warranty.
Applicant shall provide documentation or other evidence from the dealer or manufacturer that the
WECS has been successfully operated in atmospheric conditions similar to the conditions within
Excelsior. The WECS shall be warranted against any system failures reasonably expected in severe
weather operation conditions.
•
§ 28-5 EXCELSIOR CODE - APPENDIX E, ZONING
Sec. 28 -5. Design standards.
(a) Heights. The permitted maximum height of a WECS shall be determined in one of two ways. In
determining the height of the WECS the total height of the system shall be included. System height shall
be measured from the base of the tower to the highest possible extension of the rotor.
(1) A ratio of one foot to one foot between the distance of the closest property line to the base of the
WECS to the height of the system.
(2) A maximum system height of 175 feet.
The shortest height of the two above mentioned methods shall be used in dete the maximum
allowable height of a WECS system. The height of a WECS must also comply with FAA regulation part
77 "Objects Affecting Navigable Air Space" and/or MNDOT Rule 14, MCAR 1.3015 "Criteria for
Determining Obstruction to Air Navigation ".
(b) Setbacks. No part of a WECS (including guy wire anchors) shall be located within or above any
required front, side or rear yard setback. WECS towers shall be setback from the closest property line one
foot for every one foot of system height. WECS shall not be located within 30 feet of an above ground
utility line.
(c) Rotor size. All WECS rotors shall not have rotor diameters greater than 26 feet.
(d) Rotor clearance. Blade arcs created by the WECS shall have a minim of 30 feet of clearance over
any structure or tree within a 200 -foot radius.
(e) Rotor safety. Each WECS shall be equipped with both a manual and automatic braking device
capable of stopping the WECS operation in high winds (40 mph or greater).
(f) Lightning protection. Each WECS shall be grounded to protect against natural lightning strikes in
conformance with the National Electrical Code as adopted by the city.
(g) Tower access. To prevent unauthorized climbing, WECS towers must comply with one of the
following provisions:
(1) Tower climbing apparatus shall not be located within 12 feet of the ground.
(2) A locked anti -climb device shall be installed on the tower.
(3) Towers capable of being climbed shall be enclosed by a locked, protective fence at least six feet
high.
(h) Signs. WECS shall have one sign, not to exceed two square feet, posted at the base of the tower and
said sign shall contain the following information.
(1) Warning high voltage.
(2) Manufacturer's name.
(3) Emergency phone number.
(4) Emergency shutdown procedures.
(i) Lighting. WECS shall not have affixed or attached any lights, reflectors, flasher or any other
illumination, except for illumination devices required by FAA regulations part 77 "Objects Affecting
Navigable Air Space" and FAA Advisory circular 70/7460 -1F, September 1978 "Obstruction Marking and
Lighting ".
0) Electromagnetic interference. WECS shall be designed and constructed so as not to cause radio and
television interference.
•
EXCELSIOR CODE - APPENDIX E, ZONING § 28-8
(k) Noise emission. Noises emanating from the operation of WECS shall be in compliance with and
regulated by the State of Minnesota Pollution Control Standards, Minnesota Regulations NPC 1 and 2,
as amended.
(1) Utility company interconnection. No WECS shall be interconnected with a local electrical utility
company until the utility company has reviewed and commented upon it. The interconnection of the
WECS with the utility company shall adhere to the National Electrical Code as adopted by the city.
Sec. 28 -6. Ornamental wind devices.
Ornamental wind devices that are not a WECS shall be exempt from the provisions of this article and
shall conform to other applicable provisions of this Appendix E.
Sec. 28 -7. Inspection.
The city hereby reserves the right upon issuing any WECS interim use permit to inspect the premises
on which the WECS is located. If a WECS is not maintained in operational condition and poses a
potential safety hazard, the owner shall take expeditious action to correct the situation.
Sec. 28 -8. Abandonment.
Any WECS or tower which is not used for six successive months shall be deemed abandoned and shall
be dismantled and removed from the property at the expense of the property owner.
Chapter III. Overall Policies
services, employee housing and transportation needs.
Policy No. 2: Facilitate connections between local businesses and various programs that
provide incentives and financial assistance for business retention and
recruitment.
Policy No. 3: Facilitate local workforce participation in city programs and facilities.
Policy No. 4: Maintain a partnership with the TwinWest Chamber and collaborate with
other agencies to recognize existing and new businesses.
D. The Natural Environment
Community Values:
• protect & improve our water resources & woodlands
• facilitate open space preservation
• respect the natural environment while managing growth
• promote use of green technology & sustainable development
General
The preservation of natural resources has attracted development, resulting in attractive home
sites and business developments. Natural resource protection has been a major initiative in
community development and restoration activities throughout the city since the early 1970s.
The natural resource protection and enhancement measures have evolved over the past 40
years and the city has been recognized as a leader in preservation techniques and programs.
Continued efforts are needed to protect, manage and enhance important natural resources.
While the city continues to balance natural resource protection efforts while respecting
individual property rights, as part of the development process, recent initiatives towards
education of residents and businesses about conservation, resource enhancement and long-
term stewardship complements resource planning activities.
Emphasis on resource planning activities on a neighborhood ecological level is needed to
protect a variety of natural resources. These resources include:
numerous areas of steep slopes (over 12 % and 18
over 225 natural community vegetative remnants of varying ecological quality,
• approximately 2,439 acres of Type 1 - 7 wetland and floodplain areas, and
643 acres of lakes and creek basins.
Incentives and programs will be used to protect, enhance and improve natural resources.
Emphasis will be placed on the preservation and enhancement of water quality and quantity,
water resources and significant vegetation. The city will be an advocate/ facilitator in the
education, use and incentives for "green" technology.
Stormwater Management
The emphasis on the management of water quality and quantity is important from both a
local and regional perspective. The drainage system in the city relies on natural drainage
ways and storage areas within four watersheds (Minnehaha, Riley - Purgatory, Nine Mile and
Basset Creeks) that eventually drain through numerous communities to the Minnesota River.
C,t III -13 2030 Comprehensive Guide Plan
nimnetonka
Chapter III. Overall Policies
Stormwater management offers opportunities to control development impacts by establishing
regulations for the use of new or existing resource areas for water storage and filtration.
Water quality and quantity management requires the use of a variety of techniques to reduce
phosphorus and nutrient loads, incorporate sustainable design techniques to encourage
infiltration, and reduce erosion and sedimentation with private development projects and
new public facilities.
Green Technoloev
Since the early 1990s the city has incorporated "green" technologies and techniques to
conserve and reduce reliance on nonrenewable energy sources. Current "green technologies"
utilized and encouraged by the city include recycling, use of solar energy, and non -toxic
cleaning methods for utility and facility management.
Policy No. 1: Support, promote and facilitate environmentally sensitive development.
Policy No. 2: Continue to provide leadership in integrating natural resource
preservation and cost - effective and practical "green technologies" in
community facilities and the delivery of city services.
Policy No. 3: Provide education and programs to residents and businesses to encourage
natural resource protection, enhancement, stewardship, the control of
invasive species and the use of "green technologies ".
Policy No. 4: Require new development and redevelopment to preserve and enhance
important natural resources including natural communities, woodlands,
wetlands, floodplain areas, shorelands and slope areas.
Policy No. 5: Require land uses, development and redevelopment to:
• comply and be consistent with the City of Minnetonka Water Resources
Management Plan
• comply with existing and new city and watershed requirements for non -
degradation of water quality.
Policy No. 6: Encourage the use of technologies, including solar access and other or new
forms of renewable energy, oriented towards energy conservation and
efficiency.
E. Parks, Open Space and Recreation
Community values:
• promote activities that encourage understanding & involvement
• expand & increase usability of our trails & sidewalks
Over the last 50 years, the city has responded to the residential demand for community and
neighborhood parks by constructing nearly 50 parks throughout Minnetonka. In addition, the
community value of natural resource preservation has resulted in the acquisition of significant
open space for use as passive recreational activities, especially along creek corridors. In the
future, the acquisition of park land for active and passive recreational activities will not be as
significant as it has in the past since the city has obtained numerous acres for park, open
space and recreation purposes. However, further limited acquisition of property may be
required in certain locations to meet park development and stewardship needs.
� III -14 2030 Comprehensive Guide Plan
imm�etonllca
Chapter III. Overall Policies
• Park activities for Minnetonka, in the future, will primarily focus upon facility development
and improvements, and connectivity between parks, neighborhoods and activity centers. Over
the past 20 years, city park facilities have expanded from solely city -owned facilities to
partnerships with schools, athletic associations, other public agencies and unique
public /private partnerships. For example, current efforts to develop an implementation and
stewardship plan for the Upper Minnehaha Creek corridor with the County, watershed district
and the city are a model that will likely be initiated for park and open space development
and stewardship in the future.
The changing demographics of residents will affect the Minnetonka park and recreation
system more so in the future than continued development and redevelopment. The trend
towards an aging population and the need to continue to attract families to the city will likely
require facilities that reflect "healthy living" objectives, accommodate "wheel- ability" (i.e.
wheel chairs, bikes, baby carts, etc.) that extends throughout the lifecycle and new or
redesigned facilities that accommodate a range of activities and encourage accessibility.
Further, park and open space activities aimed at environmental stewardship and interaction
with natural resources, such as nature center development and trail connections need
accommodation within the overall park system. The city will continue to investigate
additional open space opportunities and acquisitions under public ownership or other
controls.
Policy No. 1: Provide city parks, and recreational facilities and programs to meet the needs
of Minnetonka residents and businesses:
• Upgrade existing facilities or provide new facilities that appeal to the
changing demographics of residents.
Provide new neighborhood parks where access to existing park facilities is
inadequate, or is underserved.
Policy No. 2: Manage city parks, facilities and programs to accommodate the effects of
environmental changes, and the changing needs of residents, businesses and
employees of Minnetonka businesses.
Policy No. 3: Collaborate with schools and other organizations to promote "healthy living"
activities and programs.
Policy No. 4: Extend and manage the trail system as a recreation and "pathway" corridor
throughout the city.
F. Transportation
Community values:
* enhance resident & business mobility with quality roads & transit
* meet local & regional needs through leadership & collaboration
* expand & increase usability of our trails & sidewalks
Land use planning requires coordination with transportation facilities (roadways, transit and
trails) and needs to ensure adequate and safe access from existing and new development to
the local and regional roadway system. The lack of consideration of land uses and
development on the city's transportation system leads to unplanned congestion, confusion for
the motorist, safety issues and unanticipated capital expenditures for the city, county and
c;t..f III -15 2030 Comprehensive Guide Plan
mmnetonka
Chapter III. Overall Policies
state. •
Overall roadway circulation within the city is limited, unlike many large communities in the
metropolitan area. Several state and county roadways are characterized by access limitations
that segment Minnetonka; significant topographical changes and existing environmental
protection areas; and a "parcel by parcel" development pattern have all led to a
discontinuous roadway system.
The lack of a continuous roadway system causes difficulty in planning a transportation system
that supports residents and businesses in the city. Roadway segments can become congested,
forcing drivers to find alternative routes, such as local roads, that are not designed or located
to carry higher traffic volumes. Currently, the local roadway system has operated efficiently
and within capacity, and it is important to preserve the function and design of local streets as
population increases and congestion worsens in order to protect residential neighborhoods.
As development and redevelopment continue, pressure on the overall transportation system
will intensify without commensurate levels of roadway and facility improvements. Therefore,
it is important to identify areas, before development or redevelopment occurs, where
anticipated congestion will affect the overall transportation system.
The transportation system needs to be planned to:
• support the villages and the Ridgedale /Opus regional areas, and
• to accommodate public travel and recreational needs.
Opportunities for multi -modal transportation facilities are available or planned in the
Ridgedale, Opus (Southwest Corridor LRT) and community village areas where major
transportation corridors exist. Therefore, more intense and higher density development and
redevelopment should be planned and designed to gain additional or reasonable access to
these transportation facilities. Further, planning should include the provision for non -
vehicular corridors (trails, pathways, sidewalks) and facilities to safely access land use and
transportation facilities within these areas. Continued collaboration with the County and
State is needed to ensure that commensurate roadway and transit improvements are available
for planned areas of more intense development in the city and expanding resident service
needs.
Trails and other non - vehicle corridors serve a dual purpose to provide overall connectivity to
village centers, public facilities and other community activity centers. The Minnesota River
Bluffs LRT Regional Trail and the proposed CR 101 regional trail (local trail from the
Minnesota River Bluffs LRT Regional Trail to TH 7) serve regional trail, connectivity and
"greenway" needs as well as local Minnetonka needs. The completion of the overall trail plan
will assist in providing connectivity throughout the city and the surrounding area as well as
support "healthy living" and recreational objectives.
Policy No. 1: Provide a safe and integrated transportation system.
Policy No. 2: Recognize the interrelationship of land use and transportation, and anticipate
impacts of the location and intensity of planned land uses on the
transportation system.
Policy No. 3: Provide and promote convenient and accessible transportation systems to
residents and employees of Minnetonka businesses.
Policy No. 4: Manage the impact of new development upon the local transportation system
and encourage the use of Transportation Demand Management (TDM) and
c; � y �. III -16 2030 Comprehensive Guide Plan
rninnetonka
CHAPTER 29
•
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SYSTEMS
SECTION:
11- 29 - -1: Purpose
11- 29 - -3: Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS)
11- 29 - -5: Solar Energy Systems
11- 29 - -7: Ground Source Heat Pump Systems
11- 29 - -9: Hydronic Furnaces
11 -29 -1: PURPOSE:
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish standards
alternative energy systems shall be governed within the City.
11 -29 -3: WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS):
A. Application:
• 1. Accessory Use:
1. Administrative Permit: Installation of one
(1) wind energy conversion system that
conforms to the height limits of the
respective zoning district may be allowed as
a permitted accessory use subject to
approval of an administrative permit within
any zoning district of the City and subject
to the regulations and requirements of this
Chapter.
2. Interim Use: Installation of one (1) wind
energy conversion systems exceeding the
height limit of the respective zoning
district may be allowed as an accessory use
subject to approval of an interim use permit
within any zoning district of the City,
subject to the regulations and requirements
of this Chapter, provided the property upon
which the system is to be located is zoned
agricultural, commercial, industrial or
public -open space district or is constructed
and maintained on any parcel of at least two
and one -half (2 acres in size.
2. Declaration Of Conditions: The Planning Commission may
recommend and the City Council may impose such
conditions on the granting of a WECS interim use
permit as may be necessary to carry out the purpose
and provisions of this Chapter.
3. Site Plan Drawing: All applications for a WECS interim
use permit shall be accompanied by a detailed site
plan drawn to scale and dimensioned, displaying the
information as specified in Chapter 9 of this Title
and the following:
a. Location and height of all buildings, structures,
aboveground utilities and trees on the lot,
including both existing and proposed structures
and guy wire anchors.
b. Location and height of all adjacent buildings,
structures, aboveground utilities and trees
located within three hundred fifty feet (350') of
the exterior boundaries of the property in
question.
C. Sketch elevation drawing of the premises
accurately depicting the proposed WECS and its
relationship to structures on the subject site
and adjacent lots.
4. Applications for an interim use permit under this
Section shall include studies documenting sufficient
access to unobstructed wind necessary for operation of
the proposed turbine.
B. Code Compliance:
1. Compliance With State Building Code: Standard drawings
of the structural components of the wind energy
conversion system and support structures, including
base and footings shall be provided along with
engineering data and calculations to demonstrate
compliance with the structural design provisions of
the State Building Code. Drawings and engineering
calculations shall be certified by a Minnesota
licensed engineer.
• 2 . Compliance With National Electrical Code: WECS
electrical equipment and connections shall be designed
and installed in adherence to the National Electrical
Code as adopted by the City.
C. Manufacturing Warranty: Applicant shall provide
documentation or other evidence from the dealer or
manufacturer that the WECS has been successfully operated
in atmospheric conditions similar to the conditions within
Lakeville. The WECS shall be warranted against any system
failures reasonably expected in severe weather operation
conditions.
D. Design Standards:
1. Height:
a. The permitted maximum height of a WECS shall be
determined in one of two (2) ways. In determining
the height of the WECS the total height of the
system shall be included. System height shall be
measured from the base of the tower to the
highest possible extension of the rotor.
(1) A ratio of one foot to one foot (1':1')
between the distance of the closest
property line to the base of the WECS
to the height of the system.
(2) A maximum system height of one hundred
seventy five feet (175').
b. The shortest height of the two (2) above
mentioned methods shall be used in determining
the maximum allowable height of a WECS system.
The height of a WECS must also comply with FAA
regulations.
2. Setbacks: No part of a WECS shall be located within or
above any required front, side or rear yard setback.
WECS towers shall be setback from the closest property
line one foot (1') for every one foot (1') of system
height. WECS shall not be located within thirty feet
(30 of an aboveground utility line.
is 3. Installation:
a. All towers used to support a WECS shall be a •
monopole design certified by a structural
engineer or manufacturer that the pole is capable
of supporting the WECS.
b. WECS installed on an existing structure shall
require certification of a structural engineer
that the existing structure is capable of
supporting the WECS.
4. Rotor Clearance: Blade arcs created by the WECS shall
have a minimum of thirty feet of clearance over any
structure or tree within a five hundred (500) foot
radius.
5. Rotor Safety: Each WECS shall be equipped with both a
manual and automatic braking device capable of
stopping the WECS operation in high winds (40 miles
per hour or greater).
6. Electrical:
a. All utilities shall be installed underground.
b. An exterior utility disconnect switch shall be
installed at the electric meter serving the
property.
C. Each WECS shall be grounded to protect against
natural lightning strikes in conformance with the
National Electrical Code as adopted by the City.
7. Tower Access: To prevent unauthorized climbing, WECS
towers must comply with one of the following
provisions:
a. Tower climbing apparatus shall not be located
within twelve feet (12 of the ground.
b. A locked anti -climb device shall be installed on
the tower.
C. Towers capable of being climbed shall be enclosed
by a locked, protective fence at least six feet
(6') high.
8. Signs: WECS shall have one sign, not to exceed two (2)
square feet posted at the base of the tower and said
sign shall contain the following information.
a. Warning high voltage.
b. Manufacturer's name.
C. Emergency phone number.
d. Emergency shutdown procedures.
9. Color /Lighting:
a. WECS under one hundred seventy five feet (175')
in height shall be painted a noncontrasting color
consistent with the surrounding area such as: sky
blue, gray, or brown, and have a galvanized or
oxidized finish to reduce visual impact.
b. WECS shall not have affixed or attached any
lights, reflectors, flasher or any other
illumination, except for illumination devices
required by FAA regulations.
10. Electromagnetic Interference: WECS shall be designed
and constructed so as not to cause radio and
television interference.
11. Noise Emission:
a. Within residential districts, noises emanating
from the operation of WECS shall not exceed 10 db
above ambient area noise levels.
b. In all other districts, Noises emanating from the
operation of WECS shall be in compliance with and
regulated by the State of Minnesota Pollution
Control Standards, Minnesota Regulations NPC 1
and 2, as amended.
12. Utility Company Interconnection: No WECS shall be
interconnected with a local electrical utility company
until the utility company has reviewed and commented
upon it. The interconnection of the WECS with the
utility company shall adhere to the National
• Electrical Code as adopted by the City.
E. Ornamental Wind Devices: Ornamental wind devices that are
not a WECS shall be exempt from the provisions of this
Chapter and shall conform to other applicable provisions of
this Title.
F. Inspection: The City hereby reserves the right upon
issuing any WECS interim use permit to inspect the premises
on which the WECS is located. If a WECS is not maintained
in operational condition and poses a potential safety
hazard, the owner shall take expeditious action to correct
the situation.
G. Abandonment:
1. Any WECS or tower which is not used for twelve (12)
successive months shall be deemed abandoned and shall
be dismantled and removed from the property at the
expense of the property owner.
2. An interim use permit allowing for installation of a
WECS under this section shall terminate upon the
occurrence of any of the following events, whichever
occurs first:
a. The property on which the WECS is located is
zoned to other than an agricultural, commercial
industrial or public -open space district.
b. The property on which the WECS is located is
subdivided and the resulting lot area is less
than 2.5 acres.
C. Any of the events outlined by Section 11 -5 -7 of
this Title.
11 -29 -5: SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS:
A. Accessory Use.
1. Solar energy systems shall be allowed as a permitted
accessory use in all zoning districts in accordance
with the standards in this Section.
• 2. The following systems shall be exempt from the
requirements of this section and shall be regulated as
any other building element:
a. Building integrated solar energy systems that are
an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, rather than a separate mechanical
device, replacing or substituting for an
architectural element or structural component
including, but not limited to, photovoltaic or
hot water solar energy systems contained within
roofing materials, windows, skylights and
awnings.
b. Passive solar energy systems that capture solar
light or heat without transforming it into
another form of energy or transferring the heat
via a heat exchanger.
B. System Standards:
1. Electrical:
a. All utilities shall be installed underground.
b. An exterior utility disconnect switch shall be
installed at the electric meter serving the
property.
C. Solar energy systems shall be grounded to protect
against natural lightning strikes in conformance
with the National Electrical Code as adopted by
the City.
d. No solar energy system shall be interconnected
with a local electrical utility company until the
utility company has reviewed and commented upon
it. The interconnection of the solar energy
system with the utility company shall adhere to
the National Electrical Code as adopted by the
City.
2. Maximum Area: Ground mounted solar energy systems
shall be limited to a maximum area of one hundred
twenty (120) square feet.
3. Color: All roof - mounted solar energy systems shall
use colors that are the same or similar with the color •
of the roof material of the building on which the
system is mounted.
C. Location:
1. Roof mounting.
a. The solar energy system shall comply with the
maximum height requirements of the applicable
zoning district.
b. The solar energy system shall not extend beyond
the perimeter of the exterior walls of the
building on which it is mounted.
2. Ground mounting.
a. The solar energy system shall only be located in
the rear yard as defined by this Title.
b. The solar energy system shall comply with the
maximum height requirements for accessory
buildings for the applicable zoning district. 40
C. All components of the solar energy system shall
be setback a minimum of five (5) feet from
interior side lot lines and ten (10) feet from
rear lot lines.
d. Solar energy systems shall not encroach upon
drainage and utility easements.
D. Screening: Solar energy systems shall be screened in
accordance with the requirements of Section 11 -21 -13 of
this Title to the extent possible without affecting their
function.
E. Certification. The solar energy system shall be certified
by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. and comply to the
requirements of the International Building Code.
F. Abandonment: Any solar energy system which is inoperable
for twelve (12) successive months shall be deemed to be
abandoned and shall be deemed a public nuisance. The owner
shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after
obtaining a demolition permit.
G. Building Permit. A building permit shall be obtained for
any solar energy system prior to installation.
11 -29 -7: GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS:
A. Accessory Use.
1. Ground source heat pump systems shall be allowed as a
permitted accessory use in all zoning districts in
accordance with the standards in this Section.
2. Ground source heat systems in public water bodies or
water bodies owned or managed by the City of Lakeville
shall be prohibited except when accessory to a City of
Lakeville facility.
B. System Requirements:
1. All ground source heat pump systems shall be closed
loop systems that circulate heat transfer fluids as
allowed by this section through pipes or coils buried
beneath the land surface.
2. Heat transfer fluids shall be limited to non - toxic,
food grade fluids such as potable water, aqueous
solutions of propylene glycol not to exceed twenty
(20) percent by weight or aqueous solutions of
potassium acetate not to exceed twenty (20) percent by
weight.
C. Location:
1. Ground source heat pump systems shall only be located
in the rear yard as defined by this Title.
2. All components of ground source heat pump systems
shall be setback a minimum of five (5) feet from
interior side lot lines and ten (10) feet from rear
lot lines.
3. Ground source heat pump systems shall not encroach
upon drainage and utility easements.
D. Screening. Ground source heat pump systems shall be
screened in accordance with the requirements of Section 11-
21-13 of this Title.
E. Certification: The ground source heat pump system shall be
certified by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. and comply to
the requirements of the International Building Code.
F. Abandonment: Any ground source heat pump system which is
inoperable for twelve (12) successive months shall be
deemed to be abandoned and shall be deemed a public
nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at
their expense after obtaining a demolition permit as
follows:
1. The heat pump and any external or above ground
mechanical equipment shall be removed.
2. Pipes or coils below the land surface have be filled
with grout to displace the heat transfer fluid, which
is to be captured and disposed of in accordance with
State and Federal regulations.
3. The top of the pipe, coil or boring shall be uncovered
and sealed.
G. Building Permit.
1. A building permit shall be obtained for any ground
source heat pump system prior to installation.
2. Borings for ground source heat pump systems where the
pipes or coils are installed vertically below the land
shall also be subject to approval by the Minnesota
Department of Health.
11 -29 -9: HYDRONIC FURNACES: Accessory use of a wood -fired
furnace, stove or boiler not located within a building intended
for habitation by humans or animals shall be allowed as an
interim use only within agricultural /rural districts, subject to
the following provisions:
A. Minimum Lot Area. The minimum lot area for use of an
accessory hydronic furnace shall be ten (10) acres.
B. Setbacks. Hydronic furnaces shall be setback a minimum of
one hundred (100) feet from all property lines.
C. Burning Material. Material to be burned shall be limited
to corn, pellet materials or natural, dry wood that has not
been painted, varnished or coated in any way, has not been
pressure treated with preservatives and does not contain
resins or glues as in plywood or other composite wood
products.
D. Exterior Storage. Outdoor storage of burning material
shall be in accordance with Section 11- 18 -7.G of this
Title.
E. Other Requirements. All requirements for installation and
maintenance shall be met including, but not limited to,
local, state and federal regulations and manufacturer's
specifications and shall be EPA Phase II qualified.
F. The interim use permit shall terminate upon the occurrence
of any of the following events, whichever occurs first:
1. The property on which the hydronic furnace is located
is zoned to other than an Agricultural /Rural District.
2. The property on which the hydronic furnace is located
is subdivided and the resulting lot area is less than
ten (10) acres.
3. Any of the events outlined by Section 11 -5 -7 of this
Title.
•