This article may be referred to as the "Solar Energy System
Ordinance."
This article is adopted pursuant to the Township of Mantua's authority to adopt such ordinances under N.J.S.A. 40:42-1 et seq., 40:49-1 et seq., and 40:55D-1 et seq. and Code §
1-5.
As used solely in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated. These definitions are not intended to alter the meanings of the exact or similar terms as defined in Code §
230-7, nor are they intended to apply to other sections of the Code:
APPEARANCE, COLOR, and FINISH
The solar energy system and all associated equipment shall
remain painted or finished in the color or finish that was originally
applied by the manufacturer unless a different color or finish is
approved by the Administrator. It is recommended that colors and finishes
match the surroundings of the installation to the extent reasonably
possible; however, this specification is not a requirement.
BOARD
The Township of Mantua Planning Board and/or Zoning Board
or other authority having jurisdiction.
MANTUA TOWNSHIP CONSTRUCTION OFFICE
The NJDCA-authorized Construction Official and the place
of business officially designated by the Township of Mantua to review
and approve applications under applicable codes of construction under
the authority of the State of New Jersey. The Mantua Township Construction
Office, by definition, includes its successors and assigns and/or
those designated by the Township of Mantua and/or state authority.
NJDCA
The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and, by extension,
shall include the individual divisions and/or offices within the NJDCA.
OWNER
The individual, entity and/or property owner that intends
to own and operate the solar energy system in accordance with this
article. Should the property owner be different from the owner or
entity that intends to own and operate the solar energy system, the
property owner shall provide written consent and provide the same
at the time of application for approval.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A renewable energy system, as defined in this section, that
converts solar energy into a usable electrical energy, heats water,
or produces hot air or similar function through the use of solar collectors,
and which is used to generate electricity and has a nameplate capacity
of 50 kilowatts or less, solar panels and/or generators, and all associated
equipment, including any base, foundation, structural support, wire(s),
batteries or other components necessary to fully utilize the solar
generator.
TOTAL HEIGHT
In relation to a solar energy system, the vertical distance
from the ground to the maximum height of the apparatus and all associated
equipment of the solar energy system at its highest point.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent with the
provisions adopted by this article are hereby repealed; provided,
however, that such repeal shall only be to the extent of such inconsistency,
and any valid legislation of the Township Committee of the Township
of Mantua which is not in conflict with the provisions of this article
shall be deemed to remain in full force and effect.
This article shall take effect 30 days after final passage by
the Township Committee or 20 days after approval by the Mayor, whichever
comes first.