Solar Energy System: High Impact land use if 10 or more acres

100 feet from centerline of roads, 50 feet from adjacent properties, 100 feet from residential property lines, 100 feet from properties containing existing structures

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Solar systems considered to be abandoned if they do not produce energy for one year or more; must be removed within 18 months

High-impact land use permit required; solar energy systems have additional requirements of a Department of Natural Resources reply, FAA Notice of No Flight and/or application to FAA for Notice of Criteria Tool, preliminary site plan, identification of proposed construction and ongoing maintenance routes, letter of intent with the applicable road authority, proposed product cut sheets, glare study report, proof of liability insurance, and preliminary emergency services plan.

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July 17, 2023

Ashe County, NC, regulates solar energy systems under their ordinance. Solar energy systems occupying 10 or more acres are classified as high-impact land uses. Setbacks for solar installations include 100 feet from road centerlines, 50 feet from adjacent properties, and 100 feet from both residential property lines and properties with existing structures. Deconstruction plans are required for solar during the application process.