LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Urban County Planning Commission voted unanimously on July 9 to recommend against allowing large-scale solar energy systems on agricultural land, overriding a proposal from the Urban County Council that would have permitted such projects under strict conditions.

The revised recommendation would prohibit large and intermediate scale solar energy development in agricultural zones. The recommendation came after Council asked the body to review proposed changes to Lexington's solar energy systems zoning ordinance and hold a public hearing.

The Planning Commission's action during its monthly meeting marked a significant shift from the Council's March 2026 proposal, which would have permitted solar farms larger than five acres in agricultural zones under a conditional use permit, with conditions including continued farming on-site, annual inspections, and at least 85 percent of ground under panels remaining vegetated.

The public hearing drew passionate testimony on both sides. Opponents, including representatives from the Fayette Alliance and the Rural Land Management Board, argued that solar farms would harm Lexington's agricultural heritage and unique Bluegrass landscape. Supporters, however, emphasized the need to help Lexington achieve its goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and argued that rooftop solar alone would be insufficient.

Beyond the solar debate, the Planning Commission approved several other development projects. Commissioners unanimously approved the Glenmore Farm final subdivision plan on Gentry Road, as well as development plans for Lexmark International and Samuel H. Bryan Tract 8, all subject to staff-recommended conditions. The commission also approved waivers for street cross-section standards at Masterson Station Center, tree canopy requirements for Church of the Good Shepherd, and standards for the Turner Property and Meadowthorpe Community Business Center.

The Lane Allen Park preliminary subdivision plan, which would subdivide 28 single-family residential lots on Parkers Mill Road, was postponed until July 23.

The Planning Commission's recommendation will return to Council for review during its August 18th work session, at which point the legislative body will determine how to proceed.