HB629 Summary

• Requires permit from local governing body in DeKalb County before constructing, installing, or operating wind energy conversion systems, with property appropriately zoned.

• Applicant must submit application including property owner information, plot plan showing system location and distances from property lines, visual simulation, and reclamation plan.

• Wind energy conversion system tower design must be certified by licensed engineer with prior wind turbine experience, comply with building and electrical codes, and be equipped with manual and automatic overspeed controls.

• Applicant must maintain $1,000,000 financial assurance for liability damages and additional assurance covering reclamation and removal costs; system cannot exceed 40 decibels at property line and must maintain 2,500-foot setback from adjacent properties.

• Systems unused for 365 consecutive days may be deemed abandoned and must be removed; act becomes effective three months after passage.