The South Portland Planning Board gave unanimous recommendation last week to a zoning change that would allow homeowners or small business owners to mount small-scale solar systems in most areas of the city.

And, in Cape Elizabeth, the Town Council approved new fees for the use of Fort Williams Park by tour bus operators, vendors and others.

At its meeting on April 11, the Cape council agreed to delayed implementation of the new fees, which will go into effect on Dec. 1. While admission to the park is free for the general public, there are fees for tour buses, picnic shelter rentals and group events.

According to town records, such fees have generated $43,000 in this fiscal year and the increased fees are expected to add $7,000-$10,000 to the amount generated in 2016-2017.

Most fees will rise $5-$10, with the average increase being about 10 percent. The increases were recommended to the council by the Fort Williams Advisory Commission. The council approved most of the fees as recommended, although it opted for a smaller-than-suggested increase for tour buses.

In terms of the new rules allowing for more use of solar power in South Portland, the new zoning would allow for roof-mounted or ground-mounted solar panel systems in virtually all city zones.

That’s as long as these small-scale solar systems generate 20 kilowatts of power or less, Planning and Development Director Tex Haeuser told the Planning Board at its April 12 meeting.

In mixed-use, commercial and industrial districts, larger-scale systems would also be acceptable, but would be subjected to special permitting rules.

At least week’s meeting, Planning Board member Taylor Neff called these solar zoning amendments “needed and much appreciated.”

The City Council will review the board’s recommendation in a workshop scheduled for Monday, May 9.

New fees for tour buses, vendors and others using Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth will increase starting Dec. 1.