So you want a wind turbine? Part Two: Permits and progress.
Posted on 21. Dec, 2009 by Lori Katz in Sustainable Energy, Wind
Let’s imagine you checked out your wind quality, identified a good wind turbine, and are ready to try one out at your house in San Francisco. There are still some issues to resolve.
What about the building permits?
The good news is that the City of San Francisco is officially on record supporting the addition of wind power to its collection of traditional power sources and solar.
In an executive directive in August 2008, SF Mayor Gavin Newsome ordered that “the Department of Building Inspection and Planning Department shall expedite permitting and minimize costs for the installation of residential, commercial and municipal wind generation turbines in the City.”
The Planning Department issued initial guidelines for installation of Small Wind Generators (SWGs) in October 2008, indicating that the department would follow regular review procedures and “encourage placement to minimize visibility of the installation from public rights-of-way, and minimize architectural, noise, and other impacts on the surrounding structures and neighborhood character.”
The Planning Department guidelines indicate that most small wind turbines are likely to be exempt from full-scale environmental review. However, the height will be that already mapped for the subject district with an exemption of ten feet in districts with a height limit of 65 feet and an additional 16 feet in those with a height limit of over 65 feet.
What about the noise?
While horizontal axis turbines can be noisy, especially those that one sees in large wind farms, small wind turbines –especially vertical-axis wind turbines—are quiet, both for the owner and those passing by or living next door.
What about the neighbors?
As with any renovation or construction, the best policy is to explain first what you are doing and answer questions directly. In addition, in districts where public notification is required, standard posting is required, with a 30-day notice. If requested, a hearing might be held.
For more detailed information, consult the San Francisco Urban Wind Power Task Force Report (2009) or contact the Planning Department directly.
An increasing number of specialists can help you identify and install a small residential wind turbine. Small Wind in California is an excellent website to help you learn more about wind and ways to use it.
Lori Katz Group can help you assess a range of alternative and traditional electrical options. Contact us at info@lorikatzgroup.com.
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- So you want to have a wind turbine? Part One San Francisco is a breezy peninsula city on the edge...
