Inyo County Municipal Code Ch. 19.04 General Provisions

This title shall be known as the "Geothermal Ordinance of the County of Inyo."

(Ord. 239 § 1.10, 1973)

The purpose of this title is to provide regulations, procedures and performance standards for the development of geothermal resources in the county.

(Ord. 239 § 1.20, 1973)

It shall be the intent of the county to regulate geothermal development in such a manner so as to:

A. Insure the public health, safety, comfort and convenience, and general welfare;

B. Provide for the optimum use of the land;

C. Protect the environment;

D. Provide for cooperation in the development of a geothermal element to the general plan;

E. Encourage geothermal resource development which is compatible with the above.

(Ord. 239 § 1.30, 1973)

The possible use of a natural resource to produce electrical energy and other by-products is a welcome prospect, however, the protection of the living environment of Inyo County is a concern to all residents; therefore, it is the intent of the board of supervisors that when initial development and later production use of geothermal resources is permitted, it shall be performed with the least amount of impact on any historical, cultural, esthetic or environmental site.

(Ord. 239 § 1.40, 1973)