Site Plan Review (SPR) regulations allow for certain types of minor projects, which are likely to be less impacting, to be waived from the full SPR process that would normally be required to approve their construction. These projects are eligible for an expedited review called the “Site Plan Review Waiver (SPRW),” during which the SPR standards are analyzed in a shorter time frame (2 weeks).
Waivers from SPR may be granted if the Community Planning & Permitting Department does not find the proposal to be in conflict with the standards listed in Article 4-806 of the Boulder County Land Use Code. However, the SPRW determination may include written terms and conditions. The project, even if granted a waiver, is subject to the applicable building permit and building code requirements.
Article 4-806 requires that adjacent property owners be notified of the request to waive SPR and be given seven days to respond.
Applicant(s) must first contact the Community Planning & Permitting Department to make an appointment for a Pre-Application Conference with a Planner to discuss the proposal. To schedule a pre-application conference, please call 303-441-3930 or email using the Ask a Planner form.
The Board of County Commissioners approved new regulations relating to Small Renewable Energy Systems that became effective on June 30, 2009.
The renewable energy systems eligible include that offer a streamlined processes while seeking to protect neighborhood compatibility. Wind and solar energy generation systems can be either accessory uses, i.e. they only provide energy to the principal use on the property, or principal uses, i.e. the only or primary use of the parcel is the renewable energy system itself.
There are three possible land use reviews based on the type and magnitude of the proposal:
Ground-mounted small solar energy systems, such as ground-mounted PV, that are accessory to a residence are eligible for the expedited “Site Plan Review Waiver” process, as are small wind-powered energy systems that meet the height of zone district or are roof-mounted no more than 5-15 feet above the roof. For those systems that require SPRW or SPR, the typical pre-application conference is not required. See the Land Use Publication Renewable Energy Systems for more details.
Development proposed on conservation easements held by Boulder County or located within a Natural Landmark or Natural Area (including the associated 250 ft. buffer) described in the Boulder County Comprehensive Plan cannot be waived.