East Williston removes solar-panel ban

East Williston residents can now install solar panels, thanks to a local law passed by the village board of trustees.

At a meeting last month, the board of trustees voted 5-0 to lift a five-month moratorium started June 25 on the installation of solar panels and to introduce a new set of guidelines.

Solar panels must be "aesthetically appropriate" for the intended location, and the local law includes parameters for both installation and application submission.

The law requires solid-colored panels that match the color of the roof they are affixed to and must be mounted as close as possible to the surface of the roof.

The panels should not be visible from an abutting or nearby street.

Tree removal or trimming in order to accommodate installation is forbidden.

Residents must submit a building permit with detailed information, including site plans, photographs, drawings, layout plans, colors, finishes and more. There is also a $250 fee.

Applications must be certified by a state-licensed engineer or architect.

Installations must be handled by qualified solar installers and electrical connections will be inspected by a licensed electrical inspector before operation.