Title/Name/Summary
Fields Mercedes Benz of Orland Park - 8430 W 159th Street - Solar Panel Installation
History
QUICKFACTS
Project
Fields Mercedes Benz of Orland Park - 8430 W 159th Street - Solar Panel Installation
2025-0427/ AR-25-00580
Petitioner
Ryan Fields - Owner
Requested Actions
Appearance Review
Purpose
The petitioner is proposing the installation of 543 solar panels to provide power to the dealership on site.
Project Attributes
Address: 8430 W 159th Street
P.I.N. (s): 27-14-313-027-0000
Parcel Size: 4.34 acres
Building Size: 51,440 sq. ft.
Zoning and Land Use
Comprehensive Plan Planning District: 159th & Harlem
Comprehensive Land Designation: Neighborhood Mixed Use - Automobile Dealership
Existing Zoning: BIZ
Existing Land Use: Auto Dealership
Planning Overview
Project description & Context
The petitioner intends to install 534 solar panels to the site located at 8430 W 159th Street.
Per Section 6-314.C.2.a.4., Solar energy systems on flat roofs must be completely screened from view from public right-of-ways, and neighboring properties in accordance with Section 6-308.J (Screening). Solar energy systems may be angled to achieve maximum sun exposure but shall not exceed 8’ in overall height or extend above the building parapet, whichever results in less height. In no instance shall any part of the system extend beyond the edge of the roof or the highest point of the parapet or screening wall. Additionally, all associated cables and wiring must be underground, routed through the building or contained within conduit which complements the colors and materials of the principal structure.
The submitted plans propose panels with a low, but not flush, profile. The panels are slightly angled with a maximum height of 1’. The submitted plans depict the panels placed throughout the entire roof, clustered into 7 different arrays. There is a consistent 4’ setback from all roof edges depicted on the plans, thereby ensuring the equipment will not extend past the roof line. Additionally, the existing roof includes a 2’ tall parapet wall which will screen the panels from the right-of-way and adjacent properties.
The Petitioner also proposes support equipment to wall-mounted on the exterior north facing wall, which is the rear façade of the property. The proposed equipment includes a revenue meter enclosure, a solar load center, a transformer, and an AC disconnect switch. The connections between the utilities are enclosed by conduit which reasonably matches the existing building’s façade.
Overall, the project conforms to the Village’s comprehensive Plan, Land Development Codes and policies for this area.
Recommended Action/Motion
The Appearance Review for Mercedes Benz, case number 2025-0427, received May 20, 2025. was administratively approved on May 29, 2025 subject to the following conditions:
1. A building permit must be obtained from the Village's Building Department prior to initiating work.
2. Meet all building and Land Development Code requirements at the site.
3. All ground-based and roof-mounted mechanical equipment must be fully screened from view and shall meet the requirements listed in Section 6-314.