PacWind SeaHawk Owner's Manual - Appendices
Appendices
Appendix 1
Installation Planning
The location and height of the tower for the PacWind SeaHawk wind system will be important
factors in determining the overall performance of the system.
Average wind speed is influenced by many things and may vary considerably within a relatively
small region, particularly in complex terrain. Site and tower choice, however, are often limited by
such factors as zoning restrictions, property size, proximity to neighbors, customer preferences,
and wiring costs. All of these factors should be taken into consideration in choosing the best
tower site and height.
A. Legal Restrictions and Good Neighbor Relations
One of the first steps in planning an installation is to determine the legal status of the proposed
wind turbine installation in the community in which it will be installed. In most cities and some
counties an installation will be subject to zoning laws and building codes. Some neighborhoods
have protective covenants that limit the types of home improvements. In areas requiring permits
the installation must be planned weeks to months in advance to allow time for applications to be
processed and, if necessary, hearings to be held.
The quickest way to determine the local codes and requirements is to call or visit the office of the
building inspector. Few cities have specific regulations dealing with wind turbines, but most will
have height restrictions, building code requirements, and a formal process for obtaining a building
permit. The most common problem encountered in the United States is a height restriction of
10.7 meters (35 feet), particularly in residentially zoned areas.
The 9 m (30 ft) Tilt Tower meets the 35 ft restriction with reasonable performance. If you need or
want to go higher than the zoning height restriction you must apply for a variance. A variance is
essentially permission to break a rule and it is granted following a public hearing before a
Planning Board. Obtaining a variance is a major undertaking, costing $200-5,000 and taking
several months, so it is important to establish whether it will be necessary as soon as possible.
PacWind has experience in working with customers and SeaHawk dealers in variance hearings
and we offer advice and assistance to those who request it.
Generally, in order to obtain a building permit you will be required to submit a plot plan and fill out
an application. A plot plan is a map, drawn to scale, of your property showing the boundaries,
dwelling( s) and other structures, major topographic features, easements, and, most importantly,
the location and height of the proposed wind turbine tower. Often you will be required to submit
plans for the tower and information on the wind turbine. In some cases you will also be required
to submit a structural analysis of the tower to show that it is in compliance with the building code.
Sometimes a registered Professional Engineer (PE) must sign this analysis and occasionally the
PE must be licensed in the State where the unit will be installed.