Bill > LD1207

This bill amends Maine's Site Location of Development Laws to establish a mandatory 100-foot buffer zone between solar energy developments and rivers, streams, and brooks. Specifically, the legislation prohibits the construction of solar energy facilities within 100 feet of any water body, with two key exceptions: vegetation removal for shade management and road or utility line crossings are still permitted within this buffer zone. The bill defines "solar energy development" as ground-mounted solar panel systems designed to convert solar energy into electrical energy, including the generating facilities and associated infrastructure. This provision aims to protect water resources by creating a protective barrier around rivers, streams, and brooks, preventing direct solar development impacts on these sensitive environmental areas while still allowing some limited access and management activities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1207&snum=132