LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Solar Work Group, an ad hoc committee of the Urban County Planning Commission, is scheduled to meet on June 9 to discuss potential amendments to Article 31 of Lexington's zoning ordinance governing solar energy systems.

The work group has been examining solar technology's use in agricultural zones outside the Urban Service Area, part of Lexington's broader goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The discussion comes as the city pursues SolSmart community designation, which requires cities to have clear policies related to solar energy technologies.

The work group, comprised of council members Liz Sheehan, Dave Sevigny, Tyler Morton, and Hil Boone, has met with various stakeholders including Kentucky Utilities, the Kentucky Resources Council, the American Farmland Trust, and conservation groups. Their proposed recommendations include additional requirements for large-scale solar projects on agricultural land, including continued agricultural production subject to annual inspections, along with land conservation and water quality plans.

In August 2025, the Urban County Council approved amendments allowing rooftop and integrated solar energy systems in all zones, along with various sizes of ground-mounted systems depending on location and zoning. However, the regulation of large-scale solar on agricultural land has remained contentious, with the council declining to permit such systems in agricultural zones while including guidance for the state Public Service Commission on local priorities.

The work group's discussion on June 9 comes as the Planning Commission and other local boards continue reviewing the proposed ordinance text amendment. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. EST at the LFUCG Government Center Council Chamber and will include stakeholder comment.