SB403 Summary

• Applies only to Etowah County and requires a permit from local governing bodies (county commission or city/town councils) before constructing, installing, or operating any wind energy conversion system.

• Local governments must adopt regulations addressing permit applications, public notification procedures, turbine types, site layout, operation and maintenance standards, permit fees of $1,000 per system plus all review costs, and permit revocation provisions.

• Applicants must maintain financial assurance equal to reclamation plan costs plus $1,000,000 liability coverage for damages to adjoining properties, with assurance remaining in effect for the system's lifetime.

• Wind energy systems must comply with multiple safety and design requirements including: certified design by licensed engineers, manual and automatic overspeed controls, noise limits not exceeding 40 decibels at property lines, 2,500-foot minimum encroachment distance from adjacent properties, and anti-climbing devices on towers.

• Systems deemed abandoned after 365 consecutive days without operation must be removed by the operator, though permit holders may request delays with proof the system will become operable.