City of Minneapolis - Wind Energy Conversion Systems

The intent of this policy is to define appropriate locations for wind energy conversion systems, to ensure compatibility with surrounding uses, and to promote safe, effective and efficient use of wind energy conversion systems to increase opportunities for generation of renewable energy. Building mounted wind energy conversion systems shall be permitted in all zoning districts. The systems shall not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height. Structures must be less than four (4) stories and forty-two (42) feet in height. If the building is nonresidential, the wind energy system must be setback at least ten (10) feet from the building. Freestanding wind energy conversion systems may be allowed as a conditional use. There are a few requirements that these systems must follow. If the system is located in a residence or office district, the system can only be located on institutional use sites. Freestanding wind energy conversion systems are prohibited in downtown areas. These systems cannot be setup on a lot less than one (1) acre. All systems cannot exceed a rated capacity of more than one hundred (100) kilowatts. Other restrictions are outlined in the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances .