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Other Approvals
Air Safety: Notification and Lighting
Any project that includes a structure exceeding 200 feet at its highest point (the highest point of a wind turbine is the tip of a blade extending vertically upward) or located within the virtual surfaces of an airport must notify the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Aviation in their state of construction plans. These agencies will likely require that at least some of the turbines or towers in a wind project be lighted to ensure air traffic safety.
Submit FAA Form 7460-1, “Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration” at least thirty days before applying for a building permit from both the FAA and the State Department of Aviation. While the standards for marking and lighting obstructions are outlined in FAA Advisory Circular 70/7460-1K, “Obstruction Marking and Lighting,” the FAA may allow project developers an opportunity to submit a preference for the design of any required tower lighting. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) has been working with the FAA to determine the effects of tower lighting on birds. Consult the AWEA Web site for the latest information and recommendations on avian and aesthetic issues surrounding tower lighting.
Electrical Permits
In some areas, electrical permits are administered by the local city or county; in other areas they are administered by the state Building Codes Division.
Structural (Building) Permits
In some areas, structural permits are administered by the local city or county; in other areas they are administered by the state Building Codes Division.
NPDES/Storm Water Permits
A National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 1200-C permit is required for construction activities that will disturb one or more acres.
A complete project layout is necessary for this application, and all erosion-control measures must be depicted. Once submitted, the permitting process can take many months. There is a fee for obtaining the permits, plus an annual compliance fee for each subsequent year to maintain the permit.
Contact the state Department of Environmental Quality to find out what the fees are for your site and whether additional permits will be required for your particular project.
Road Permits
Permits to build or upgrade roads are administered by each county individually. Contact your local permitting authority for information on permit requirements and fees.
