[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Lysander 12-29-2016 by L.L. No. 1-2017. Amendments noted where applicable.]
GENERAL REFERENCES
Zoning — See Ch. 320.
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 affirmed the Town of Lysander's
authority concerning the placement, construction and modification
of wireless telecommunications facilities. The Town of Lysander finds
that wireless telecommunications facilities may pose significant concerns
to the health, safety, public welfare, character and environment of
the Town and its inhabitants. The Town also recognizes that facilitating
the development of wireless service technology can be an economic
development asset to the Town and of significant benefit to the Town
and its residents. In order to insure that the placement, construction
or modification of wireless telecommunications facilities is consistent
with the Town's land use policies, the Town is adopting a single,
comprehensive, wireless telecommunications facilities application
and permit process. The intent of this chapter is to minimize impact
of wireless telecommunications facilities, establish a fair and efficient
process for review and approval of applications, assure an integrated,
comprehensive review of environmental impacts of such facilities,
and protect the health, safety and welfare of the Town of Lysander.
This chapter shall be known and cited as the "Wireless Telecommunications
Facilities Siting Local Law for the Town of Lysander."
A.
If any word, phrase, sentence, part, section, subsection, or other
portion of this chapter or any application thereof to any person or
circumstance is declared void, unconstitutional, or invalid for any
reason, then such word, phrase, sentence, part, section, subsection,
or other portion, or the proscribed application thereof, shall be
severable, and the remaining provisions of this chapter, and all applications
thereof, not having been declared void, unconstitutional, or invalid,
shall remain in full force and effect.
B.
Any special use permit issued under this chapter shall be comprehensive
and not severable. If part of a permit is deemed or ruled to be invalid
or unenforceable in any material respect, by a competent authority,
or is overturned by a competent authority, the permit shall be void
in total, upon determination by the Town.
For purposes of this chapter, and where not inconsistent with
the context of a particular section, the defined terms, phrases, words,
abbreviations, and their derivations shall have the meaning given
in this section. When not inconsistent with the context, words in
the present tense include the future tense, words used in the plural
number include words in the singular number and words in the singular
number include the plural number. The word "shall" is always mandatory,
and not merely directory.
An accessory facility or structure serving or being used
in conjunction with wireless telecommunications facilities, and located
on the same property or lot as the wireless telecommunications facilities,
including but not limited to, utility or transmission equipment storage
sheds or cabinets.
A system of electrical conductors that transmit or receive
electromagnetic waves or radio frequency or other wireless signals.
Any wireless service provider submitting an application for
a special use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities.
All necessary and appropriate documentation that an applicant
submits in order to receive a special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities.
The Town Board of the Town of Lysander.
The use of an existing tower or structure to support antennas
for the provision of wireless services. A replacement tower that is
constructed on the same site as an existing tower will be considered
a co-location as long as the new tower is no taller than the old tower
and that the old tower is removed in a reasonable short time frame
after the new tower is constructed.
The inability to perform an act on terms that are reasonable
in commerce; the cause or occurrence of which could not have been
reasonably anticipated or foreseen and that jeopardizes the financial
efficacy of the project. The inability to achieve a satisfactory financial
return on investment or profit, standing alone, shall not deem a situation
to be "commercially impracticable" and shall not render an act or
the terms of an agreement "commercially impracticable."
An application that contains all information and/or data
necessary to enable an informed decision to be made with respect to
an application.
A network of spatially separated antenna nodes connected
to a common source via a transport medium that provides wireless service
within a geographic area or structure.
A "facility" as defined in FCC 14-153.
The Federal Aviation Administration, or its duly designated
and authorized successor agency.
The Federal Communications Commission, or its duly designated
and authorized successor agency.
When referring to a "tower" or "structure," the distance
measured from the preexisting grade level to the highest point on
the tower or structure, even if said highest point is an antenna or
lightening protection device.
The addition, removal or change of any of the physical and
visually discernible components or aspects of a wireless facility,
such as antennas, cabling, equipment shelters, landscaping, fencing,
utility feeds, changing the color or materials of any visually discernible
components, vehicular access, parking and/or an upgrade or change
out of equipment for better or more modern equipment. Adding a new
wireless carrier or service provider to a telecommunications tower
or telecommunications site as a co-location is a modification. A modification
shall not include the replacement of any components of a wireless
facility where the replacement is identical to the component being
replaced or for any matters that involve the normal repair and maintenance
of a wireless facility without adding, removing or changing corporation,
estate, trust, partnership, joint stock company, association of anything.
Non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation.
Any individual, corporation, estate, trust, partnership,
joint stock company, association of two or more persons having a joint
common interest, or any other entity.
See definition for "wireless telecommunications facilities."
Shall have the same meaning as defined and used in the 1996
Telecommunications Act.
The replacement of any components of a wireless facility
where the replacement is identical to the component being replaced
or for any matters that involve the normal repair and maintenance
of a wireless facility without the addition, removal or change of
any of the physical or visually discernible components or aspects
of a wireless facility that will add to the visible appearance of
the facility as originally permitted.
The official document or permit by which an applicant is
allowed to file for a building permit to construct and use wireless
telecommunications facilities as granted or issued by the Town.
The State of New York.
To minimize adverse aesthetic and visual impacts on the land,
property, buildings, and other facilities adjacent to, surrounding,
and in generally the same area as the requested location of such wireless
telecommunications facilities, which shall mean using the least visually
and physically intrusive facility that is not technologically or commercially
impracticable under the facts and circumstances,
See definition for "wireless telecommunications facilities."
The transmission and/or reception of audio, video, data,
and other information by wire, radio frequency, light, and other electronic
or electromagnetic systems.
A structure used in the provision of services described in
the definition of "wireless telecommunications facilities."
Temporary in relation to all aspects and components of this
chapter, something intended to, or that does not exist for more than
90 days.
Any structure designed primarily to support an antenna for
receiving and/or transmitting a wireless signal.
Includes a "telecommunications site" and "personal wireless
facility." It means a structure, facility or location designed, or
intended to be used as, or used to support antennas or other transmitting
or receiving devices. This includes, without limit, towers of all
types and kinds and structures, including, but not limited to, buildings,
church steeples, silos, water towers, signs or other structures that
can be used as a support structure for antennas or the functional
equivalent of such. It further includes all related facilities and
equipment such as cabling, equipment shelters and other structures
associated with the site. It is a structure and facility intended
for transmitting and/or receiving radio, television, cellular, SMR,
paging, 911, personal communications services (PCS), commercial satellite
services, microwave services and any commercial wireless telecommunication
service not licensed by the FCC.
In order to ensure that the placement, construction, and modification
of wireless telecommunications facilities protects the Town's
health, safety, public welfare, environmental features, the nature
and character of the community and neighborhood and other aspects
of the quality of life specifically listed elsewhere in this chapter,
the Town hereby adopts an overall policy with respect to a special
use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities for the express
purpose of achieving the following goals:
A.
Requiring a special use permit for any new, co-location or modification
of a wireless telecommunications facility.
B.
Implementing an application process for person(s) seeking a special
use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities.
C.
Establishing a policy for examining an application for and issuing
a special use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities that
is both fair and consistent.
D.
Promoting and encouraging, wherever possible, the sharing and/or
co-location of wireless telecommunications facilities among service
providers.
E.
Promoting and encouraging, wherever possible, the placement, height
and quantity of wireless telecommunications facilities in such a manner,
including but not limited to the use of stealth technology, to minimize
adverse aesthetic and visual impacts on the land, property, buildings,
and other facilities adjacent to, surrounding, and in generally the
same area as the requested location of such wireless telecommunications
facilities, which shall mean using the least visually and physically
intrusive facility that is not technologically or commercially impracticable
under the facts and circumstances.
F.
That in granting a special use permit, the Town has found that the
facility shall be the most appropriate site as regards being the least
visually intrusive among those available in the Town.
A.
Except as otherwise provided by this chapter, no person shall be permitted to site, place, build, construct, modify or prepare any site for the placement or use of wireless telecommunications facilities as of the effective date of this chapter without having first obtained a special use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this section, no special use permit shall be required for those noncommercial exclusions noted in § 312-7.
B.
All legally permitted wireless telecommunications facilities, constructed
as permitted, existing on or before the effective date of this chapter
shall be allowed to continue as they presently exist; provided, however,
that any visible modification of an existing wireless telecommunications
facility will require the complete facility and any new installation
to comply with this chapter.
C.
Any repair and maintenance of a wireless facility does not require
an application for a special use permit.
The following shall be exempt from this chapter:
A.
The Town's fire, police, department of transportation or other
public service facilities owned and operated by the local government.
B.
Any facilities expressly exempt from the Town's siting, building
and permitting authority.
C.
Over-the-air reception devices including the reception antennas for
direct broadcast satellites (DBS), multichannel multipoint distribution
(wireless cable) providers (MMDS), television broadcast stations (TVBS)
and other customer-end antennas that receive and transmit fixed wireless
signals that are primarily used for reception.
D.
Facilities exclusively for private, noncommercial radio and television
reception and private citizen's bands, licensed amateur radio
and other similar noncommercial telecommunications.
E.
Facilities used exclusively for providing unlicensed spread spectrum
technology, i.e., Bluetooth or a "hot spot," where the facility does
not require a new tower, where the service is not to be used for commercial
purposes, where there is no fee or charge for the use of the service
and where the service is intended to be usable for less than 200 feet.
A.
All applicants for a special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities or any modification of such facility shall comply with
the requirements set forth in this chapter. The Town Board is the
officially designated agency or body of the Town to whom applications
for a special use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities
must be made, and that is authorized to review, analyze, evaluate
and make decisions with respect to granting or not granting or revoking
special use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities. The
Town may at its discretion delegate or designate other official agencies
or officials of the Town to accept, review, analyze, evaluate and
make recommendations to the Town Board with respect to the granting
or not granting or revoking special use permits for wireless telecommunications
facilities.
B.
The Town Board delegates its authority to the Town Codes Enforcement Officer, or his/her designee, to accept, review, analyze and make "administrative approvals" with respect to the granting or not granting, or revoking special use permits for those facilities that meet requirements of the chapter and that do not require a public hearing as defined by § 312-17.
C.
The Town may reject applications not meeting the requirements stated
herein or which are otherwise incomplete.
D.
No wireless telecommunications facilities shall be installed, constructed
or modified until the application is reviewed and approved by the
Town, and the special use permit has been issued.
E.
Any and all representations made by the applicant to the Town on
the record during the application process, whether written or verbal,
shall be deemed a part of the application and may be relied upon in
good faith by the Town.
F.
An application for a special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities shall be signed on behalf of the applicant by the person
preparing the same and with knowledge of the contents and representations
made therein and attesting to the truth and completeness of the information.
G.
The applicant must provide documentation to verify it has the right
to proceed as proposed on the site. This would require an executed
copy of the lease with the landowner or landlord or a signed letter
acknowledging authorization. If the applicant owns the site, a copy
of the ownership record is required.
H.
The applicant shall include a statement in writing:
(1)
That the applicant's proposed wireless telecommunications facilities
shall be maintained in a safe manner, and in compliance with all conditions
of the special use permit, without exception, unless specifically
granted relief by the Town in writing, as well as all applicable and
permissible local codes, local laws, and regulations, including any
and all applicable Town, state and federal laws, rules, and regulations;
(2)
That the construction of the wireless telecommunications facilities
is legally permissible, including, but not limited to, the fact that
the applicant is authorized to do business in the state.
I.
Where a certification is called for in this chapter, such certification
shall bear the signature and seal of a registered professional licensed
in the state.
J.
In addition to all other required information as stated in this chapter,
all applications for the construction or installation of new wireless
telecommunications facilities or modification of an existing facility
shall contain the information hereinafter set forth.
(1)
A descriptive statement of the objective(s) for the new facility
or modification including and expanding on a need such as coverage
and/or capacity requirements;
(2)
Documentation that demonstrates and proves the need for the wireless
telecommunications facility to provide service primarily and essentially
within the Town. Such documentation shall include propagation studies
of the proposed site and all adjoining planned, proposed, in-service
or existing sites that demonstrate a significant gap in coverage and/or
if a capacity need, including an analysis of current and projected
usage;
(3)
The name, address and phone number of the person preparing the report;
(4)
The name, address, and phone number of the property owner and applicant,
and to include the legal name of the applicant. If the site is a tower
and the owner is different than the applicant, provide name and address
of the tower owner;
(5)
The postal address and Tax Map parcel number of the property;
(6)
The zoning district or designation in which the property is situated;
(7)
Size of the property stated both in square feet and lot line dimensions,
and a survey showing the location of all lot lines;
(8)
The location of nearest residential structure;
(9)
The location, size and height of all existing and proposed structures
on the property which is the subject of the application;
(10)
The type, locations and dimensions of all proposed and existing
landscaping, and fencing;
(11)
The azimuth, size and center-line height location of all proposed
and existing antennas on the supporting structure;
(12)
The number, type and model of the antenna(s) proposed with a
copy of the specification sheet;
(13)
The make, model, type and manufacturer of the tower and design
plan stating the tower's capacity to accommodate multiple users;
(14)
A site plan describing the proposed tower and antenna(s) and
all related fixtures, structures, appurtenances and apparatus, including
height above preexisting grade, materials, color and lighting;
(15)
The frequency; modulation and class of service of radio or other
transmitting equipment;
(16)
The actual intended transmission power stated as the maximum
effective radiated power (ERP) in watts;
(17)
Signed documentation such as the "Checklist to Determine Whether
a Facility is Categorically Excluded" to verify that the wireless
telecommunication facility with the proposed installation will be
in full compliance with the current FCC RF Emissions Guidelines (NIER).
If not categorically excluded, a complete RF emissions study is required
to provide verification;
(18)
A signed statement that the proposed installation will not cause
physical or RF interference with other telecommunications devices;
(19)
A copy of the FCC license applicable for the intended use of
the wireless telecommunications facilities;
(20)
A copy of the geotechnical subsurface soils investigation, evaluation
report and foundation recommendation for a proposed or existing tower
site and if existing tower or water tank site, a copy of the installed
foundation design.
K.
The applicant will provide a written copy of an analysis, completed
by a qualified individual or organization, to determine if the proposed
new tower or existing structure intended to support wireless facilities
is in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration Regulation Part
77 and if it requires lighting. This requirement shall also be for
any existing structure or building where the application increases
the height of the structure or building. If this analysis determines
that an FAA determination is required, then all filings with the FAA,
all responses from the FAA and any related correspondence shall be
provided with the application.
L.
Application for new tower.
(1)
In the case of a new tower, the applicant shall be required to submit
a written report demonstrating its meaningful efforts to secure shared
use of existing tower(s) or the use of alternative buildings or other
structures within the Town. Copies of written requests and responses
for shared use shall be provided to the Town in the application, along
with any letters of rejection stating the reason for rejection.
(2)
In order to better inform the public, in the case of a new telecommunication
tower, the applicant shall, prior to the public hearing on the application,
hold a "balloon test." The applicant shall arrange to fly, or raise
upon a temporary mast, a minimum of a three-foot-in-diameter brightly
colored balloon at the maximum height of the proposed new tower. The
dates (including a second date, in case of poor visibility on the
initial date), times and location of this balloon test shall be advertised
by the applicant seven and 14 days in advance of the first test date
in a newspaper with a general circulation in the Town. The applicant
shall inform the Town, in writing, of the dates and times of the test,
at least 14 days in advance. The balloon shall be flown for at least
four consecutive hours sometime between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on
the dates chosen. The primary date shall be on a weekend, but in case
of poor weather on the initial date, the secondary date may be on
a weekday. A report with pictures from various locations of the balloon
shall be provided with the application.
(3)
The applicant shall examine the feasibility of designing the proposed
tower to accommodate future demand for at least four additional commercial
applications, for example, future co-locations. The tower shall be
structurally designed to accommodate at least four additional antenna
arrays equal to those of the applicant, and located as close to the
applicant's antenna as possible without causing interference.
This requirement may be waived, provided that the applicant, in writing,
demonstrates that the provisions of future shared usage of the tower
is not technologically feasible, is commercially impracticable or
creates an unnecessary and unreasonable burden, based upon:
(a)
The foreseeable number of FCC licenses available for the area;
(b)
The kind of wireless telecommunications facilities site and
structure proposed;
(c)
The number of existing and potential licenses without wireless
telecommunications facilities spaces/sites;
(d)
Available space on existing and approved towers.
(4)
Upon completing construction and before the issuance of the certificate
of compliance, to ensure the tower was constructed as permitted, the
applicant is to provide signed documentation of the tower condition
such as an ANSI report as per Annex E, Tower Maintenance and Inspection Procedures, ANSI/TIA/EIA-222F,
or most recent version. The inspection report must be performed every
three years for a guyed tower and five years for monopoles and self-supporting
towers.
(5)
The owner of a proposed new tower, and his/her successors in interest,
shall negotiate in good faith for the shared use of the proposed tower
by other wireless service providers in the future, and shall:
(a)
Respond within 60 days to a request for information from a potential
shared-use applicant;
(b)
Negotiate in good faith concerning future requests for shared
use of the new tower by other telecommunications providers;
(c)
Allow shared use of the new tower if another telecommunications
provider agrees in writing to pay reasonable charges. The charges
may include, but are not limited to, a pro rata share of the cost
of site selection, planning, project administration, land costs, site
design, construction and maintenance financing, return on equity,
less depreciation, and all of the costs of adapting the tower or equipment
to accommodate a shared user without causing electromagnetic interference;
(d)
Failure to abide by the conditions outlined above may be grounds
for revocation of the special use permit.
M.
The applicant shall provide certification with documentation (structural
analysis) including calculations that the telecommunication facility
tower and foundation and attachments, rooftop support structure, water
tank structure, and any other supporting structure as proposed to
be utilized are designed and will be constructed to meet all local,
Town, state and federal structural requirements for loads, including
wind and ice loads.
N.
If proposal is for a co-location or modification on an existing tower,
the applicant is to provide signed documentation of the tower condition
such as an ANSI report as per Annex E, Tower Maintenance and Inspection
Procedures, ANSI/TIA/EIA-222F, or most recent version. The inspection
report must be performed every three years for a guyed tower and five
years for monopoles and self-supporting towers.
O.
All proposed wireless telecommunications facilities shall contain
a demonstration that the facility will be sited so as to minimize
visual intrusion as much as possible, given the facts and circumstances
involved and will thereby have the least adverse visual effect on
the environment and its character and on the residences in the area
of the wireless telecommunications facility.
P.
If a new tower, proposal for a new antenna attachment to an existing
structure, or modification adding to a visual impact, the applicant
shall furnish a visual impact assessment, which shall include:
(1)
If a new tower or increasing the height of an existing structure
is proposed, a computer-generated "Zone of Visibility Map" at a minimum
of one-mile radius from the proposed structure, with and without foliage,
shall be provided to illustrate locations from which the proposed
installation may be seen.
(2)
Pictorial representations of "before and after" (photo simulations)
views from key viewpoints both inside and outside of the Town as may
be appropriate, including but not limited to state highways and other
major roads; state and local parks; other public lands; historic districts;
preserves and historic sites normally open to the public; and from
any other location where the site is visible to a large number of
visitors, travelers or residents. Guidance will be provided, concerning
the appropriate key sites at the preapplication meeting. Provide a
map showing the locations of where the pictures were taken and distance
from the proposed structure.
(3)
A written description of the visual impact of the proposed facility,
including, and as applicable, the tower base, guy wires, fencing and
accessory buildings from abutting and adjacent properties and streets
as relates to the need or appropriateness of screening.
Q.
The applicant shall demonstrate and provide in writing and/or by
drawing how it shall effectively screen from view the base and all
related equipment and structures of the proposed wireless telecommunications
facility.
R.
The wireless telecommunications facility and any and all accessory
or associated facilities shall maximize the use of building materials,
colors and textures designed to blend with the structure to which
it may be affixed and/or to harmonize with the natural surroundings,
this shall include the utilization of stealth or concealment technology
as may be required by the Town.
S.
All utilities at a wireless telecommunications facilities site shall
be installed underground whenever possible and in compliance with
all laws, ordinances, rules and regulations of the Town, including
specifically, but not limited to, the National Electrical Safety Code
and the National Electrical Code where appropriate.
T.
At a telecommunications site, an access road, turnaround space and
parking shall be provided to assure adequate emergency and service
access. Maximum use of existing roads, whether public or private,
shall be made to the extent practicable. Road construction shall at
all times minimize ground disturbance and the cutting of vegetation.
Road grades shall closely follow natural contours to assure minimal
visual disturbance and reduce soil erosion.
U.
All wireless telecommunications facilities shall be constructed,
operated, maintained, repaired, provided for removal of, modified
or restored in strict compliance with all current applicable technical,
safety and safety-related codes adopted by the Town, state, or United
States, including but not limited to the most recent editions of the
ANSI Code, National Electrical Safety Code and the National Electrical
Code, as well as accepted and responsible workmanlike industry practices
and recommended practices of the National Association of Tower Erectors.
The codes referred to are codes that include, but are not limited
to, construction, building, electrical, fire, safety, health, and
land use codes. In the event of a conflict between or among any of
the preceding the more stringent shall apply.
V.
A holder of a special use permit granted under this chapter shall
obtain, at its own expense, all permits and licenses required by applicable
law, rule, regulation or code, and must maintain the same, in full
force and effect, for as long as required by the Town or other governmental
entity or agency having jurisdiction over the applicant.
W.
There shall be a preapplication meeting. The purpose of the preapplication
meeting will be to address issues that will help to expedite the review
and permitting process. A preapplication meeting shall also include
a site visit if there has not been a prior site visit for the requested
site.
X.
An applicant shall submit to the Town the number of completed applications
determined to be needed at the preapplication meeting. Written notification
of the application shall be provided to the legislative body of all
adjacent municipalities as applicable and/or requested.
Y.
The holder of a special use permit shall notify the Town of any intended
modification of a wireless telecommunication facility and shall apply
to the Town to modify, relocate or rebuild a wireless telecommunications
facility.
Z.
With respect to this application process, the Board will normally
seek to have lead agency status pursuant to SEQRA. The Board shall
conduct an environmental review of the proposed project pursuant to
SEQRA in combination with its review of the application.
A.
Applicants for wireless telecommunications facilities shall locate,
site and erect said wireless telecommunications facilities in accordance
with the following priorities, one being the highest priority and
seven being the lowest priority:
(1)
On existing towers or other structures on Town-owned properties,
including the right-of-way.
(2)
On existing towers or other structures on other property in the Town.
(3)
A new tower on Town-owned properties, including the right-of-way.
(4)
A new tower on properties in areas zoned for heavy industrial use.
(5)
A new tower on properties in areas zoned for commercial use.
(6)
A new tower on properties in areas zoned for agricultural use.
(7)
A new tower on properties in areas zoned for residential use.
B.
If the proposed site is not proposed for the highest priority listed
above, then a detailed explanation must be provided as to why a site
of a higher priority was not selected. The person seeking such an
exception must satisfactorily demonstrate the reason or reasons why
such a permit should be granted for the proposed site, and the hardship
that would be incurred by the applicant if the permit were not granted
for the proposed site.
C.
An applicant may not bypass sites of higher priority by stating the
site proposed is the only site leased or selected. An application
shall address co-location as an option. If such option is not proposed,
the applicant must explain to the reasonable satisfaction of the Town
why co-location is commercially or otherwise impracticable. Agreements
between providers limiting or prohibiting co-location shall not be
a valid basis for any claim of commercial impracticability or hardship.
D.
Notwithstanding the above, the Town may approve any site located
within an area in the above list of priorities, provided that the
Town finds that the proposed site is in the best interest of the health,
safety and welfare of the Town and its inhabitants and will not have
a deleterious effect on the nature and character of the community
and neighborhood.
E.
The applicant shall submit a written report demonstrating the applicant's
review of the above locations in order of priority, demonstrating
the technological reason for the site selection. If appropriate, based
on selecting a site of lower priority, a detailed written explanation
as to why sites of a higher priority were not selected shall be included
with the application.
F.
Notwithstanding that a potential site may be situated in an area
of highest priority or highest available priority, the Town may disapprove
an application for any of the following reasons:
(1)
Conflict with safety and safety-related codes and requirements;
(2)
Conflict with the historic nature or character of a neighborhood
or historical district;
(3)
The use or construction of wireless telecommunications facilities
which is contrary to an already stated purpose of a specific zoning
or land use designation;
(4)
The placement and location of wireless telecommunications facilities
which would create an unacceptable risk, or the reasonable probability
of such, to residents, the public, employees and agents of the Town,
or employees of the service provider or other service providers;
(5)
Conflicts with the provisions of this chapter.
A.
The Town, as opposed to the construction of a new tower, shall prefer
locating on existing towers or others structures without increasing
the height. The applicant shall submit a comprehensive report inventorying
existing towers and other suitable structures within two miles of
the location of any proposed new tower, unless the applicant can show
that some other distance is more reasonable and demonstrate conclusively
why an existing tower or other suitable structure cannot be used.
B.
An applicant intending to locate on an existing tower or other suitable
structure shall be required to document the intent of the existing
owner to permit its use by the applicant.
C.
Such shared use shall consist only of the minimum antenna array technologically
required to provide service primarily and essentially within the Town,
to the extent practicable, unless good cause is shown.
A.
The applicant shall submit documentation justifying the total height
of any tower, facility and/or antenna requested and the basis therefor.
Documentation in the form of propagation studies must include all
backup data used to perform at requested height and a minimum of 10
feet lower height to allow verification of this height need. Such
documentation will be analyzed in the context of the justification
of the height needed to provide service primarily and essentially
within the Town, to the extent practicable, unless good cause is shown.
B.
No tower constructed after the effective date of this chapter, including
allowing for all attachments, shall exceed that height which shall
permit operation without required artificial lighting of any kind
in accordance with Town, state, and/or any federal statute, law, local
law, Town law, code, rule or regulation.
A.
Wireless telecommunications facilities shall not be artificially
lighted or marked, except as required by law.
B.
Towers shall be galvanized and/or painted with a rust-preventive
paint of an appropriate color to harmonize with the surroundings and
shall be maintained in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.
C.
If lighting is required, the applicant shall provide a plan for sufficient
lighting of as unobtrusive and inoffensive an effect as is permissible
under state and federal regulations.
All wireless telecommunications facilities and antennas shall
be located, fenced or otherwise secured in a manner that prevents
unauthorized access. Specifically:
A.
All antennas, towers and other supporting structures, including guy
anchor points and wires, shall be made inaccessible to individuals
and constructed or shielded in such a manner that they cannot be climbed
or collided with; and
B.
Transmitters and telecommunications control points shall be installed
in such a manner that they are readily accessible only to persons
authorized to operate or service them.
Wireless telecommunications facilities shall contain a sign
no larger than four square feet in order to provide adequate notification
to persons in the immediate area of the presence of RF radiation or
to control exposure to RF radiation within a given area. A sign of
the same size is also to be installed to contain the name(s) of the
owner(s) and operator(s) of the antenna(s) as well as emergency phone
number(s). The sign shall be on the equipment shelter or cabinet of
the applicant and be visible from the access point of the site and
must identify the equipment owner of the shelter or cabinet. On tower
sites, an FCC registration site as applicable is also to be present.
The signs shall not be lighted, unless applicable law, rule or regulation
requires lighting. No other signage, including advertising, shall
be permitted.
All proposed towers and any other proposed wireless telecommunications
facility structures shall be set back from abutting parcels, recorded
rights-of-way and road and street lines by the greater of the following
distances: a distance equal to the height of the proposed tower or
wireless telecommunications facility structure plus 10% of the height
of the tower or structure, or the existing setback requirement of
the underlying zoning district, whichever is greater. Any accessory
structure shall be located so as to comply with the applicable minimum
setback requirements for the property on which it is situated.
A.
The Town may hire any consultant and/or expert necessary to assist
the Town in reviewing and evaluating the application, including the
construction and modification of the site, once permitted, and any
site inspections.
B.
An applicant shall deposit with the Town escrow funds sufficient
to reimburse the Town for all costs of the Town's consultant
in providing expert evaluation and consultation to any agency of the
Town in connection with the review of any application, including,
where applicable, the lease negotiation, the preapproval evaluation,
and the construction and modification of the site, once permitted.
The initial deposit shall be $8,500. The placement of the $8,500 with
the Town shall precede the preapplication meeting. The Town will maintain
a separate escrow account for all such funds. The Town's consultants/experts
shall invoice the Town for its services related to the application.
If at any time during the process this escrow account has a balance
less than $2,500, the applicant shall immediately, upon notification
by the Town, replenish said escrow account so that it has a balance
of at least $5,000. Such additional escrow funds shall be deposited
with the Town before any further action or consideration is taken
on the application. In the event that the amount held in escrow by
the Town is more than the amount of the actual invoicing at the conclusion
of the project, the remaining balance shall, upon request of the applicant,
be promptly refunded to the applicant. If notified by the Town that
additional escrow is required, the applicant may request copies of
consultants' and/or experts' invoices. If the applicant
finds errors in those invoices, the applicant may ask the Town to
audit those specific items for reasonableness, and may request relief
therefrom if not deemed reasonable by the Town.
C.
Notwithstanding the above, there shall be a fee cap of $17,000 as
to the total consultant fees to be charged to the applicant in a case.
The foregoing does not prohibit the Town from imposing additional
reasonable and cost-based fees for costs incurred should an applicant
amend or change its application and the fee cap shall not apply as
to any fees which the Town determines to be attributable to the dilatory
or otherwise bad faith actions of the applicant in providing a complete
application or in proceeding with a public hearing.
D.
The total amount of the funds needed as set forth in Subsection B of this section may vary with the scope (lease negotiations and/or review) and complexity of the project, the completeness of the application and other information as may be needed to complete the necessary review, analysis and inspection of any construction or modification.
A.
Prior to the approval of any application for a special use permit
for wireless telecommunications facilities, a public hearing shall
be held by the Town, notice of which shall be published in the newspaper
of general circulation in the Town no less than 10 calendar days prior
to the scheduled date of the public hearing. In order that the Town
may notify nearby landowners, the application shall contain the names
and address of all landowners whose property is located within 1,500
feet of any property line of the lot or parcel on which the new wireless
telecommunications facilities are proposed to be located.
B.
There shall be no public hearing required for an application to co-locate
on an existing tower or other structure or a modification at an existing
site, as long as there is no proposed increase in the height of the
tower or structure, including attachments thereto. In addition, for
an eligible facility request, no public hearing shall be required.
Rather, an administratively granted special use permit shall be granted
by the Code Enforcement Officer.
A.
The Town will undertake a review of an application pursuant to this
chapter in a timely fashion, consistent with its responsibilities,
and shall act within a reasonable period of time given the relative
complexity of the application and the circumstances, with due regard
for the public's interest and need to be involved, and the applicant's
desire for a timely resolution.
B.
The Town may refer any application or part thereof to any advisory,
other committee or commission for a nonbinding recommendation.
C.
After the public hearing and after formally considering the application,
the Town may approve, approve with conditions, or deny a special use
permit. Its decision shall be in writing and shall be supported by
substantial evidence contained in a written record. The burden of
proof for the granting of the permit shall always be upon the applicant.
D.
If the Town approves the special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities, then the applicant shall be notified of such approval
in writing within 10 calendar days of the Town's action, and
the special use permit shall be issued within 30 days after such approval.
Except for necessary building permits, and subsequent certificates
of compliance, once a special use permit has been granted hereunder,
no additional permits or approvals from the Town, such as site plan
or zoning approvals, shall be required by the Town for the wireless
telecommunications facilities covered by the special use permit.
E.
If the Town denies the special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities, then the applicant shall be notified of such denial in
writing within 10 calendar days of the Town's action.
The extent and parameters of a special use permit for wireless
telecommunications facilities shall be as follows:
A.
Such special use permit shall not be assigned, transferred or conveyed
without the express prior written notification to the Town.
B.
Such special use permit may, following a hearing upon due prior notice
to the applicant, be revoked, canceled, or terminated for a violation
of the conditions and provisions of the special use permit, or for
a material violation of this chapter after prior written notice to
the holder of the special use permit.
At the time that a person submits an application for a special
use permit for a new tower, such person shall pay a nonrefundable
application fee of $5,000 to the Town. If the application is for a
special use permit for modifying or co-locating on an existing tower
or other suitable structure, where no increase in height of the tower
or structure is required, or for a temporary facility, the nonrefundable
fee shall be $2,500.
The applicant and the owner of record of any proposed wireless
telecommunications facilities property site shall, at its cost and
expense, be jointly required to execute and file with the Town a bond,
or other form of security acceptable to the Town as to type of security
and the form and manner of execution, in an amount of at least $75,000
for a tower facility and $25,000 for a co-location on an existing
tower or other structure and with such sureties as are deemed sufficient
by the Town to assure the faithful performance of the terms and conditions
of this chapter and conditions of any special use permit issued pursuant
to this chapter. The full amount of the bond or security shall remain
in full force and effect throughout the term of the special use permit
and/or until any necessary site restoration is completed to restore
the site to a condition comparable to that, which existed prior to
the issuance of the original special use permit.
In order to verify that the holder of a special use permit for
wireless telecommunications facilities and any and all lessees, renters,
and/or licensees of wireless telecommunications facilities, place
and construct such facilities, including towers and antennas, in accordance
with all applicable technical, safety, fire, building, and zoning
codes, laws, ordinances and regulations and other applicable requirements,
the Town may inspect all facets of said permit holder's, renter's,
lessee's or licensee's placement, construction, modification
and maintenance of such facilities, including, but not limited to,
towers, antennas and buildings or other structures constructed or
located on the permitted site.
A.
A holder of a special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities shall secure and at all times maintain public liability
insurance for personal injuries, death and property damage, and umbrella
insurance coverage, for the duration of the special use permit in
amounts as set forth below.
B.
For a wireless telecommunications facility on Town property, the
commercial general liability insurance policy shall specifically include
the Town and its officers, Boards, employees, committee members, attorneys,
agents and consultants as additional insureds.
C.
The insurance policies shall be issued by an agent or representative
of an insurance company licensed to do business in the state and with
a Best's rating of at least A.
D.
The insurance policies shall contain an endorsement obligating the
insurance company to furnish the Town with at least 30 days' prior
written notice in advance of the cancellation of the insurance.
E.
Renewal or replacement policies or certificates shall be delivered
to the Town at least 15 days before the expiration of the insurance
that such policies are to renew or replace.
F.
Before construction of a permitted wireless telecommunications facilities
is initiated, but in no case later than 15 days after the granting
of the special use permit, the holder of the special use permit shall
deliver to the Town a copy of each of the policies or certificates
representing the insurance in the required amounts.
A.
Any application for wireless telecommunication facilities that is
proposed for Town property, pursuant to this chapter, shall contain
a provision with respect to indemnification. Such provision shall
require the applicant, to the extent permitted by the law, to at all
times defend, indemnify, protect; save, hold harmless, and exempt
the Town, and its officers, Boards, employees, committee members,
attorneys, agents, and consultants from any and all penalties, damages,
costs, or charges arising out of any and all claims, suits, demands,
causes of action, or award of damages, whether compensatory or punitive,
or expenses arising therefrom, either at law or in equity, which might
arise out of or are caused by, the placement, construction, erection,
modification, location, products performance, use, operation, maintenance,
repair, installation, replacement, removal, or restoration of said
facility, excepting, however, any portion of such claims, suits, demands,
causes of action or award of damages as may be attributable to the
negligent or intentional acts or omissions of the Town, or its servants
or agents. With respect to the penalties, damages or charges referenced
herein, reasonable attorneys' fees, consultants' fees, and
expert witness fees are included in those costs that are recoverable
by the Town.
A.
In the event of a violation of this chapter or any special use permit
issued pursuant to this chapter, the Town may impose and collect,
and the holder of the special use permit for wireless telecommunications
facilities shall pay to the Town, fines or penalties as set forth
below.
B.
The holder of a special use permits failure to comply with provisions
of this chapter shall constitute a violation of this chapter and shall
subject the applicant to the code enforcement provisions and procedures
as provided in the Town of Lysander Code of Local Laws.
C.
Notwithstanding anything in this chapter, the holder of the special
use permit for wireless telecommunications facilities may not use
the payment of fines, liquidated damages or other penalties, to evade
or avoid compliance with this chapter or any section of this chapter.
An attempt to do so shall subject the holder of the special use permit
to termination and revocation of the special use permit. The Town
may also seek injunctive relief to prevent the continued violation
of this chapter, without limiting other remedies available to the
Town.
If a wireless telecommunications facility is repaired, rebuilt, placed, moved, re-located, modified or maintained in a way that is inconsistent or not in compliance with the provisions of this chapter or of the special use permit, then the Town shall notify the holder of the special use permit in writing of such violation. A permit holder in violation may be considered in default and subject to fines as in § 312-25 and if a violation is not corrected to the satisfaction of the Town in a reasonable period of time the special use permit is subject to revocation.
A.
Under the following circumstances, the Town may determine that the
health, safety, and welfare interests of the Town warrant and require
the removal of wireless telecommunications facilities:
(1)
Wireless telecommunications facilities with a permit have been abandoned
(i.e., not used as wireless telecommunications facilities) for a period
exceeding 90 consecutive days or a total of 180 days in any three-hundred-sixty-five-day
period, except for periods caused by force majeure or Acts of God,
in which case, repair or removal shall commence within 90 days;
(2)
Permitted wireless telecommunications facilities fall into such a
state of disrepair that it creates a health or safety hazard;
(3)
Wireless telecommunications facilities have been located, constructed,
or modified without first obtaining, or in a manner not authorized
by, the required special use permit, or any other necessary authorization
and the special permit may be revoked.
B.
If the Town makes such a determination as noted in Subsection A of this section, then the Town shall notify the holder of the special use permit for the wireless telecommunications facilities within 48 hours that said wireless telecommunications facilities are to be removed; the Town may approve an interim temporary use agreement/permit, such as to enable the sale of the wireless telecommunications facilities.
C.
The holder of the special use permit, or its successors or assigns,
shall dismantle and remove such wireless telecommunications facilities,
and all associated structures and facilities, from the site and restore
the site to as close to its original condition as is possible, such
restoration being limited only by physical or commercial impracticability,
within 90 days of receipt of written notice from the Town. However,
if the owner of the property upon which the wireless telecommunications
facilities are located wishes to retain any access roadway to the
wireless telecommunications facilities, the owner may do so with the
approval of the Town.
D.
If wireless telecommunications facilities are not removed or substantial
progress has not been made to remove the wireless telecommunications
facilities within 90 days after the permit holder has received notice,
then the Town may order officials or representatives of the Town to
remove the wireless telecommunications facilities at the sole expense
of the owner or special use permit holder.
E.
If the Town removes, or causes to be removed, wireless telecommunications
facilities, and the owner of the wireless telecommunications facilities
does not claim and remove it from the site to a lawful location within
10 days, then the Town may take steps to declare the wireless telecommunications
facilities abandoned, and sell them and their components.
F.
Notwithstanding anything in this section to the contrary, the Town
may approve a temporary use permit/agreement for the wireless telecommunications
facilities, for no more 90 days, during which time a suitable plan
for removal, conversion, or relocation of the affected wireless telecommunications
facilities shall be developed by the holder of the special use permit,
subject to the approval of the Town, and an agreement to such plan
shall be executed by the holder of the special use permit and the
Town. If such a plan is not developed, approved and executed within
the ninety-day time period, then the Town may take possession of and
dispose of the affected wireless telecommunications facilities in
the manner provided in this section.
Any applicant desiring relief, waiver or exemption from any
aspect or requirement of this chapter may request such, provided that
the relief or exemption is contained in the submitted application
for either a special use permit, or in the case of an existing or
previously granted special use permit a request for modification of
its tower and/or facilities. Such relief may be temporary or permanent,
partial or complete. However, the burden of proving the need for the
requested relief, waiver or exemption is solely on the applicant to
prove. The applicant shall bear all costs of the Town in considering
the request and the relief, waiver or exemption. No such relief or
exemption shall be approved unless the applicant demonstrates by clear
and convincing evidence that, if granted the relief, waiver or exemption
will have no significant effect on the health, safety and welfare
of the Town, its residents and other service providers.
A.
The Town may at any time conduct a review and examination of this
entire chapter.
B.
If after such a periodic review and examination of this chapter,
the Town determines that one or more provisions of this chapter should
be amended, repealed, revised, clarified, or deleted, then the Town
may take whatever measures are necessary in accordance with applicable
law in order to accomplish the same. It is noted that where warranted,
and in the best interests of the Town, the Town may repeal this entire
chapter at any time.
A.
To the extent that the holder of a special use permit for wireless
telecommunications facilities has not received relief, or is otherwise
exempt, from appropriate state and/or federal agency rules or regulations,
then the holder of such a special use permit shall adhere to, and
comply with, all applicable rules, regulations, standards, and provisions
of any state or federal agency, including, but not limited to, the
FAA and the FCC. Specifically included in this requirement are any
rules and regulations regarding height, lighting, security, electrical
and RF emission standards.
B.
To the extent that applicable rules, regulations, standards, and
provisions of any state or federal agency, including but not limited
to, the FAA and the FCC, and specifically including any rules and
regulations regarding height, lighting, and security are changed and/or
are modified during the duration of a special use permit for wireless
telecommunications facilities, then the holder of such a special use
permit shall conform the permitted wireless telecommunications facilities
to the applicable changed and/or modified rule, regulation, standard,
or provision within a maximum of 24 months of the effective date of
the applicable changed and/or modified rule, regulation, standard,
or provision, or sooner as may be required by the issuing entity.
Where this chapter differs or conflicts with other laws, rules
and regulations, unless the right to do so is preempted or prohibited
by the Town, state or federal government, this chapter shall apply.
This chapter is enacted pursuant to applicable authority granted
by the state and federal government.
[Added 4-4-2019 by L.L.
No. 2-2019]
A.
General design guidelines.
(1)
All communications facilities shall comply with the United States
Department of Transportation Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MUTCD), the National Electric Code (NEC), all Town of Lysander Codes,
and any other applicable local, state, and federal rules and regulations.
(2)
Utility underground required. All service lines to the proposed communication
facility shall be underground if all other utilities in the immediate
area are also underground.
(3)
Power and fiber optic supply.
(a)
Independent power source required. Communication facilities
subject to a ROW agreement may not use the same power source providing
power for the existing facilities original to the purposes of the
support structure, unless specifically authorized by the owner of
the support structure and approved by the Town Engineer. Independent
power sources must be contained within a separate conduit on the existing
support structure.
(b)
The applicant shall coordinate, establish, maintain and pay
for all power and communication connections with private utilities.
(4)
Wiring, cables and conduit requirements.
(a)
All wiring and cables must be housed within the steel or other
metal support structure pole and extended vertically within a flexible
conduit. In nonsteel or solid support structures, all wiring and cables
must be appropriately protected in their entirety and covered with
a material that matches the nonsteel or solid support structures so
as not to be visible from public view.
(b)
Aboveground wires, cables, connections and conduits are prohibited,
except as specified in this Design Guideline Manual based on the wireless
support structure.
(c)
Spools and/or coils of excess fiber optic or coaxial cables
or any other wires shall not be stored on the pole except completely
within the approved enclosures or cabinets.
(5)
Lighting. Lighting associated with communication facilities is prohibited.
Any internal lights associated with electronic equipment must be shielded
from public view.
(6)
Signage. Signage is prohibited on all small cell facilities and wireless
support structures, including stickers, logos, and other nonessential
graphics and information unless required by the FCC.
B.
Existing wireless support structures.
(1)
Collocation encouraged. The collocation of communication facilities
on existing poles, towers and support structures is strongly encouraged
as a means to minimize the extent of intrusion of redundant support
structures within the Town ROW or on private property.
(2)
Structural integrity of existing support structures.
(a)
The Town shall not authorize any attachments to Town-owned infrastructure,
pole, tower or support structures that negatively impact the structural
integrity of said infrastructure, pole, tower or support structure.
(b)
The Town may condition approval of the collocation on replacement
or modification of the communication facility at the provider's
cost if the Town determines that replacement or modification is necessary
for compliance with the construction and/or safety standards of the
Town. A replacement or modification of the communication facility
shall conform to the applicable design guideline(s) and the Town's
applicable specifications for the type of structure being replaced.
The Town may retain ownership of a replacement wireless support structure.
(3)
Maximum permitted height. For an existing communication facility,
the antenna and any associated shroud or concealment material are
permitted to be collocated at the top of the existing wireless support
structure and shall not increase the height of the existing wireless
support structure by more than five feet or a total of 35 feet.
(4)
Right to reserve space on pole, tower or support structure. The Town
may reserve space for future public safety or transportation uses
in the right-of-way or on a pole, tower or support structure owned
by the Town in a documented and approved plan in place at the time
an application is filed.
(a)
A reservation of space shall not preclude placement of a pole
or collocation of a communication facility.
(b)
If replacement of the Town's pole or support structure
is necessary to accommodate the collocation of the communication facility
and the future use, the provider shall pay for the replacement of
the pole or support structure, and the replaced pole or support structure
must accommodate the future use.
C.
New wireless pole, tower or support structures.
(1)
Location.
(a)
Required setbacks.
[1]
The centerline of new pole, tower or support structures shall
be installed in alignment with existing street trees and other poles
along the same right-of-way when possible.
[2]
In no case shall a new pole, tower or support structure be located
less than what is required in the ROW agreement from any of the roadway/face
of curb, sidewalk, or shared use path as measured to the nearest part
of the support structure.
[3]
New poles, towers or support structures shall be located a minimum
of six feet from any permanent object, structure or existing lawful
encroachment into the right of way, or as determined in the ROW agreement.
(b)
Required spacing. Collocation is strongly encouraged. If not
feasible, a minimum of 300 linear feet between Poles, Towers, Support
Structures or communication facilities is required. To the extent
feasible, any new or replace Pole, Tower or Support Structure constructed
in the ROW shall be at the property line between two houses and not
in direct line of site from the front of a house.
(2)
Maximum permitted height.
(a)
For a new wireless support structure in a Commercial or Industrial
Zone, the overall height of the wireless support structure and any
collocated antennas shall not be more than 40 feet in height above
established grade measured at the base of the wireless support structure.
(b)
The Town shall limit the maximum permissible height of wireless
support structures in residential zones to not more than 35 feet in
height above established grade measured at the base of the structure.
(3)
Design requirements.
(a)
Shape and dimensions. All new poles, towers or support structures
shall be constructed of solid hot-dipped galvanized steel, be round
in shape with the pole shaft tempered in diameter from the base to
the top with a maximum of 12 inches at the base.
(b)
Transformer base. All new poles, towers or support structures
shall include a one-piece cast aluminum alloy transformer base in
a breakaway design, consistent with engineering standards subject
to the Town Engineer's review and approval.
(c)
Foundation/footer.
[1]
All new poles, towers or support structures must be supported
with a reinforced concrete foundation and footer designed, stamped,
sealed and signed by a professional engineer licensed and registered
in the State of New York, and subject to the Town Engineer's
review and approval.
[2]
Anchor bolts must be constructed from steel (high strength)
per ATSM A36, threaded (J-Type/L-Type), hot dip galvanized steel per
ODOT CM Item No. 711.02, and in a strength and diameter, stamped,
sealed and signed by a professional engineer licensed and registered
in the State of New York, and subject to the Town Engineer's
review and approval.
[3]
All anchor bolts must be concealed from public view with an
appropriate pole boot or cover, powder coated to match the pole, tower
or support structure.
(d)
Color. New poles, towers or support structures, including the
breakaway transformer base, shall have a powder coated finish in the
dark earth tone colors such as dark green, dark brown, gray, or black
consistent with the color of other poles, towers or support structures
in the immediate vicinity.
(4)
Multiple requests for wireless support structures in violation of
spacing requirements. If multiple requests are received by the Town
to install two or more poles, towers or support structures that would
violate applicable spacing requirements outlined herein, or to collocate
two or more communication facilities on the same wireless pole, tower
or support structure the Town may resolve conflicting requests through
whatever reasonable and nondiscriminatory manner it deems appropriate.
(5)
Town-directed alternate location for poles, towers or support structures.
The Town may propose an alternate location to any proposed location
of a new pole, tower or support structure, subject to the following:
(a)
That the alternate location is within 100 feet of the proposed
location or within a distance that is equivalent to the width of the
right-of-way in or on which the new location is proposed, whichever
is greater; and
(b)
The operator shall use the alternate location if it has the
right to do so on reasonable terms and conditions and the alternate
location does not impose technical limits or significant additional
costs.
(6)
Waiver to Town-directed alternate pole, tower or support structure
location or undergrounding requirements.
(a)
Provider may seek a waiver from the Planning Board of the undergrounding
or alternative location requirements for the placement of a new pole,
tower or support structure to support communication facilities if
the provider is unable to achieve its service objective using a communication
facility under the following circumstances:
(b)
The Town shall process waivers in a reasonable and nondiscriminatory
manner that does not have the effect of prohibiting the provision
of wireless service.
D.
Antennas.
(1)
Location. All antennas to be installed on new or existing wireless
poles, towers or support structures shall be mounted to the top of
the pole, tower or support structure and aligned with the centerline
of the pole, tower or support structure, unless otherwise agreed to
by the Town based on the specific context and characteristics of the
communication facility.
(2)
Size. Each antenna shall be located entirely within an enclosure
of not more than six cubic feet in volume or, in the case of an antenna
that has exposed elements, the antenna and all of its exposed elements
could fit within an enclosure of not more than 12 cubic feet in volume.
E.
Small wireless facilities installed on wireless support structures.
(1)
Size. Exclusive of the antenna, all wireless equipment associated
with the communication facility shall not cumulatively exceed 28 cubic
feet in volume. The calculation of equipment volume shall not include
electric meters, concealment elements, telecommunications demarcation
boxes, grounding equipment, power transfer switches, cut-off switches,
and vertical cable runs for the connection of power and other services.
(2)
Equipment enclosures required. All communication facilities mounted
to wireless poles, towers or support structures or located on the
ground shall be fully contained within enclosures or cabinets.
(3)
Required clear height. All communication facilities mounted to a
wireless pole, tower or support structure shall provide a minimum
of 10 feet of clear space on the pole as measured from established
grade to the lowest point of any facility/equipment cabinets or concealment
apparatus mounted to the pole, tower or support structure.
(4)
Maximum horizontal offset from support structure. The communication
facility's equipment cabinets or enclosures shall not extend
more than 10 inches beyond the pole, tower or support structure of
centerline in all directions.
(5)
Design.
(b)
Installation method.
[1]
All pole-mounted equipment cabinets or enclosures must be installed
as flush to the pole as possible.
[2]
Any installation brackets connecting the cabinets or enclosure
to the pole shall not extend more than two inches from the pole, and
shall include metal flaps (or wings) to fully conceal the gap between
the cabinet and pole.
(c)
Cabinet or enclosure material. (To be discussed.)
(d)
Color. Cabinets or enclosures shall match the color specification
of the pole, tower and/or support structure.
F.
Ground-mounted small cell facilities.
(1)
Location.
(a)
Required setbacks.
[1]
In no case shall ground-mounted small cell facilities be located
no less than required in the ROW Agreement from the road-way/face
of curb, sidewalk, or shared use path as measured to the nearest part
of the cabinet or enclosure.
[2]
Ground-mounted communication facilities and associated required
screening or shrouding shall be located a minimum of six feet from
any permanent object or existing lawful encroachment into the right-of-way.
(2)
Size. All communication facility equipment associated with the facility
shall not cumulatively exceed 28 cubic feet in volume. The calculation
of equipment volume shall not include electric meters, concealment
elements, telecommunications demarcation boxes, grounding equipment,
power transfer switches, cut-off switches, and vertical cable runs
for the connection of power and other services.
(3)
Maximum permitted height. The maximum height for ground-mounted communication
facilities shall not exceed 2.5 feet as measured from established
grade at the base of the facility.
(4)
Equipment enclosures required. All ground-mounted communication facilities
shall be fully contained within enclosures or cabinets.
(5)
Design requirements.
(a)
Screening required. Evergreen plant material shall be used for
screening and shall be planted and maintained to ensure that the equipment
will be screened to its full height two years of planting without
obstructing the view of motor traffic or pedestrians.
(b)
Concrete pad or slab. In accordance with state and local standards
approved by the Director of Planning and Development or Code Enforcement
Director.
(c)
Breakaway design. All objects placed within the ROW shall feature
breakaway design.
(d)
Color. Ground-mounted communication facility cabinets and enclosures
shall be dark green or black powder coated finish.
G.
Construction and safety requirements.
(1)
Approval of the collocation or replacement or modification of the
pole, tower or support structure is conditioned upon the operator's
assumption of costs of the Town determines that replacement or modification
is necessary for compliance with its written construction or safety
standards.
(2)
Prevention of failures and accidents. Any person who owns a communication
facility sited in the right-of-way shall at all times employ ordinary
and reasonable care and install and maintain in use nothing less than
the best available technology for preventing failures and accidents
which are likely to cause damage, injury, or nuisance to the public.
(3)
Compliance with fire safety and FCC regulations. Communication facilities,
wires, cables, fixtures, and other equipment shall be installed and
maintained in substantial compliance with the requirements of the
National Electric Code, all FCC, state, and local regulations, and
in such manner that will not interfere with the use of other property.
H.
Surety bond or equivalent financial tool for cost of removal. All
owners must procure and provide to the Town a renewable bond, or must
provide proof of an equivalent financial mechanism, to ensure compliance
with all provisions of this section. The renewable bond or equivalent
financial method must specifically cover the cost of removal of unused
or abandoned small cell facilities or damage to Town property caused
by an operator or its agent of each communication facility which the
owner installs in the right-of-way in case the Town has to remove
or pay for removal of the wireless facility. Two acceptable alternatives
to a bond include a funds set-aside and a letter of credit.
I.
Indemnify and hold Town harmless. Any provider who owns or operates
a communication facility or pole, tower or support structure in the
public way shall indemnify, protect, defend, and hold the Town and
its elected officials, officers, employees, agents, and volunteers
harmless against any and all claims, lawsuits, judgments, costs, liens,
losses, expenses, fees to include reasonable attorney fees and costs
of defense, proceedings, actions, demands, causes of action, liability
and suits of any kind and nature, including personal or bodily injury
or death, property damage or other harm for which recovery of damages
is sought, to the extent that it is caused by the negligence of the
operator who owns or operates small cell facilities and wireless service
in the public way, any agent, officer, director, representative, employee,
affiliate, or subcontractor of the operator, or their respective officers,
agents, employees, directors, or representatives while installing,
repairing, or maintaining facilities in a public way. Said provider
shall also hold the Town and/or its agent(s) harmless in the event
any action by the Town and/or its agent(s) negligently or recklessly
disrupts, destroys, and incapacitates small cell facility or wireless
support structure in the public way created under these Design Guidelines
and Standards.
