York County Approves Solar Zoning Rules With Half-Mile Setbacks

YORK — York County Commissioners voted Tuesday to regulate solar projects with half-mile setbacks from non-participating homes, schools, and churches after four years of debate.

The 25-page zoning document has been under review since Monday's public hearing. Commissioner Andy Bowman proposed the setback amendment, citing recommendations from the planning and zoning board. The motion passed 3-2, with Bowman, Chairman Daniel Grotz, and Commissioner Deb Robertson voting yes. Commissioners Joe Burgess and Randy Obermier voted no.

Burgess opposed the half-mile setback for ground-mounted panels, arguing the standard conflicted with allowing solar on rooftops. "I fail to see how that's OK but it's unsafe when it's installed on the ground," he said.

Bowman distinguished between rooftop and utility-scale installations. "The size and scope of industrial facilities" differ fundamentally, he said.

Obermier, who voted against the measure, acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but said the county will move forward. Burgess had advocated for streamlining the document before the vote, while Obermier pushed for approval, suggesting refinements could come during a comprehensive zoning update.