a. Purpose and Intent. The purpose and intent of these regulations are to encourage energy sustainability by allowing the development of small residential solar energy systems for the production of electricity in order to balance the need for clean, renewable energy resources with the protection of the health, safety and welfare of the community.

b. Permit Required and Expedited Processing. Small residential solar energy systems may be allowed in all zones subject to design review in accordance with Article 18-33 subject to certain performance standards referenced in this section. The permit process for residential rooftop solar systems shall be expedited consistent with the most current version of the California Solar Permitting Guidebook adopted by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research.

c. Performance Standards. All small solar energy systems shall meet the applicable criteria and standards as required by this section or any other regulation of the City; provided, that the Director, Design Review Board, Planning Commission or City Council, as the case may be, may relax such standards or impose stricter standards as an exercise of discretion upon a finding that such modifications are reasonably necessary in order to implement the general intent of this section or to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public, community and the environment.