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ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

In order to ensure that property owners have the freedom to employ alternative energy solutions, if desired, solar collectors may be placed on the roof of a dwelling, located in such a way as not to obstruct windows of adjacent homes.

Before installing solar panels, please contact the HOA for approval. The engineering plan must be approved and conform to the established guidelines for the Oak Creek Homeowners Association, Inc. Primary considerations are the impact of solar panels and your home and the neighborhood.

Procedure for Obtaining Approval:

The resident requests an application from the HOA or gives the contractor permission to do so. There is a $25.00 application fee. Whether the resident or contractor completes the application, the information must be complete, accurate and conform to the established HOA guidelines in order to be approved. The completed application along with a copy of the plans, the proposal, and images of what the project will look like, and the application fee must be submitted for tentative approval. Final approval will only be given after permitted by Delaware county. After building permit(s) are secured, proof thereof must be submitted for review by the HOA. Upon approval, the resident will be notified in writing (letter or email) that installation may begin.

Solar Panel Guidelines:

1. Homeowners should first consider all existing structures and landscaping before selecting a site for any proposed solar system.

2. All plans must be preapproved by the HOA prior to installation.

3. Preferred location of flush-mounted, 4' x 6' solar panels is rear-facing, roof mounted array. Flush-mounted panels (i.e., the plan of the array is parallel to the roof) on a roof facing a street may be allowed if documentation is provided from the solar contractor indicating this is the only feasible location for a solar array. (This exception affects most corner houses since there is exposure to more than 1 street.) If panels are on a side or rear roof, the array may be tilted or raised if a variance is granted. Ground mounted solar panels are prohibited.

4. All components of the solar system should be integrated into the design of the home. The color of the solar system components should generally conform to the color of the roof shingles to the extent practical. Solar “shingles” that mimic the look of a composite shingle are NOT acceptable.

5. The installation of all solar heating and cooling systems shall only be done by a licensed installer. Applications submitted to the HOA should include:

a. A diagram “drawn to scale” by the licensed contractor installing the system showing where the system will be installed;

b. Aerial Photos of the roof area where the array will be mounted;

c. Material to be used and/or manufacturer’s description of the system, photos and/or pictures of the system and color of the system.

d. Where possible, provide photos of similar existing systems as examples.

6. Piping and electrical connections will be located directly under and/or within the perimeter of the panels and placed as inconspicuously as possible when viewed from all angles. No visible/exposed conduit or connections; i.e., conduit wrap, metallic or non-metallic, must match color of house.

7. The highest point of a solar panel array will be lower than the ridge of the roof where it is attached.

8. All painted surfaces will be kept in good repair.

9. Changes to adjacent property should not impede an existing or soon-to-be-installed solar system.

A variance to certain sections of these guidelines may be granted if compliance with these guidelines would significantly increase the purchase price of the solar system or significantly decrease its performance or efficiency. If a homeowner seeks such a variance, they must provide a minimum of two bids depicting the cost of installation of the solar system.