The Knox County Area Plan Commission has formally sent a set of nonbinding recommendations to county commissioners that could lead to stricter regulations for large-scale solar energy projects, including increased setback requirements and expanded vegetation screening.
The recommendations were adopted unanimously Feb. 3 in a resolution approved by the commission and transmitted to the Knox County Commissioners for independent consideration. The action does not amend county zoning rules and carries no statutory effect unless commissioners choose to pursue formal changes.
Among the recommendations is an increase in the required setback for solar energy systems from 200 feet to 300 feet. The commission said the change is intended to enhance buffering, reduce visual impacts and reflect concerns raised by residents during public comment, while stopping short of effectively prohibiting solar development in the county.
The commission also recommended clarifying and strengthening vegetation screening requirements. Under the proposal, solar projects would be required to use appropriate vegetation to obstruct views of perimeter fencing for the life of a project, particularly where installations border non-participating residences. Fencing would serve as a secondary measure rather than the primary visual barrier.
The commission suggested that vegetation standards take into account factors such as native plant use, ecosystem impacts, plant growth rates, minimum and maximum sizes, and conservation quidance from The commission suggested that vegetation standards take into account factors such as native plant use, ecosystem impacts, plant growth rates, minimum and maximum sizes, and conservation guidance from appropriate authorities.
The plan commission deferred recommendations related to battery energy storage systems, advising county officials to rely on existing state law governing such facilities.
The resolution notes that the commission did not evaluate wind energy development and made no recommendations regarding wind projects, citing insufficient information presented to the body.
The recommendations stem from two publicly noticed hearings, including one held Dec. 2, 2025, that accepted public comment, and a subsequent hearing Jan. 6, 2026, during which the commission held internal discussions but did not take additional public input.
The commission emphasized that its role is advisory only and that it cannot amend the zoning ordinance without direction from county commissioners. Any future changes to Knox County's zoning rules would require separate action by the commissioners under Indiana law.
The resolution passed with an 8-0 vote.
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