New Tower Rules for Durham

New rules regarding cell towers have been debated for more than two years in Durham, North Carolina. Finally, the new tower rules are headed to the City Council and County Commissioners to (hopefully) be approved. On Tuesday, the Planning Commission recommended the council members and commissioners adopt the new rules as drafted, but with one change: that property zoned “Rural Residential” have the same height restrictions as other non-rural zones, provided the property is within a “suburban” zoning tier. This change was originally suggested by InterNeighborhood Council President Philip Azar. Other changes the new rules require is advance notice to property owners within 600 feet of the proposed tower site if a special-use permit is necessary. Most new towers in Durham will require a special-use permit, as it gives residents a chance to voice their opinion at a public hearing. A pre-announced balloon test, $1 million worth of liability insurance, restricted height in most residential areas, and prohibition of unipoles are all part of the revised rules. Monopines will now fall under the jurisdiction of these new rules. Previously, they were considered “concealed” and not applicable to the wireless communications facilities rules. There will also be a required setback from property lines and natural-gas pipes to 120% of the tower’s height or 85 feet, whichever is greater. Dates have not been set for the City Council and Board of County Commissioners meeting to discuss the new rules. View the entire draft of revisions here.