HB629 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Nathaniel LedbetterRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

DeKalb Co., wind energy conversion systems, permitting and regulation of by municipal governing body or county commission, certification by licensed engineer required, regulation of location, design, and operation of systems

Summary

HB629 in DeKalb County requires wind energy systems to get a local permit, meet zoning, be certified by a licensed engineer, and follow strict design, safety, and abandonment rules.

What This Bill Does

If passed, it requires a local permit before installing or operating a wind energy system, with rules that cover zoning, application processes, and ongoing operation. It mandates engineering certification, overspeed and safety controls, and financial assurances for reclamation and liability. It also sets noise limits, setback distances, abandonment removal rules, public notice requirements, and possible state regulatory alignment if the system acts as a utility.

Who It Affects

• Wind energy system developers/owners in DeKalb County who must obtain permits, submit detailed applications, meet zoning and design requirements, secure financial assurances and liability coverage, and have systems certified by a licensed engineer.
• Residents and neighboring property owners in DeKalb County who gain environmental and safety protections (noise limits, setback requirements, and public notice) and may be affected by permit conditions and potential system removal if abandoned.

Key Provisions

• Applies only in DeKalb County.
• Requires a permit from the local governing body before construction or operation of a wind energy conversion system.
• Mandates compliance with applicable zoning and allows municipalities to regulate within county minimum standards.
• Requires a licensed engineer to certify design, construction, and safety, including overspeed controls and conformity with building/electrical codes.
• Imposes financial assurances for reclamation/removal costs and a $1,000,000 liability coverage, maintained during construction and life of the system.
• Sets noise limits: measured at the property line, not to exceed 40 decibels.
• Establishes setback requirements: at least 2,500 feet from the center-mass base to the nearest edge of adjacent property; minimum setbacks from overhead lines (1.5 times the tower height) and underground lines (0.5 times the height).
• Requires abandonment removal if the system does not operate for 365 consecutive days, with county discretion to delay abandonment designation.
• Requires application details (owner/applicant info, site plan, visual simulation, reclamation plan) and allows for public notification and permit conditions including construction, operation, and maintenance specifics plus costs.
• If the system becomes a utility or non-jurisdictional electric supplier, it falls under Alabama Public Service Commission regulation.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

DeKalb County