HomeMy WebLinkAboutcoa.lu.ca.Lighting.A094-99A094-99
Lighting Code Amendment
PARCEL ID: DATE RCVD: 10/22/99 # COPIES:F-- CASE NO A094-99
CASE NAME: Lighting Code Amendment PLNR: IStephanie Millar
PROJ ADDR: CASE TYP: ICode Amendment STEPS:F—
OWN/APP: City of Aspen ADR C/S/Z I PHN:
REP: ADR: C/S/Z: PHN:
FEES DUE: FEES RCVD: STAT: F
REFERRALS
REF:— BY[— DUE:
MTG DATE REV BODY PH NOTICED
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f DATE OF FINAL ACTION: 111/22/99
REMARKS Counted 12/1/99 CITY COUNCIL: Ord 99-47
PZ: Reso 99-31
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CLOSED: 12/17/99 BY: i� Lindt BOA:
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PLAT SUBMITD: PLAT (BK,PG):� ADMIN:)
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to 9
Memorandum
To: Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
Thru: Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
Joyce Ohlson, Deputy Community Development DirectoLJ�
From: Stephanie Millar, Senior Long -Range Planner (, 7�
Date: September 28, 1999
Re: Lighting Ordinance
Summary
The City of Aspen has experienced an increase in the use of exterior illumination. City
residents' value small town character and the qualities associated with this character,
including the ability to view the stars against a dark sky. They recognize that
inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and
unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the nighttime sky, and results in
unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that some exterior lighting is
appropriate and necessary.
The draft Lighting Ordinance is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare
of the residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting
and light trespass.
Background
The City Council of the City of Aspen requested that a lighting ordinance be drafted and
considered as a code revision. Staff held a work session with the Planning and Zoning
Commission on April 20, 1999 and identified the issues the Commissioners wished to see
addressed. Staff was directed at that time to utilize Basalt's recently adopted ordinance as
a model and to build upon that work to meet Aspen's needs.
Referral Comments:
The draft Lighting Ordinance was presented to the Development Review Committee at a
meeting on August 11, 1999. All interested departments were invited to review the
ordinance and comments were received from Engineering, Building, and the City
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Attorneys Office. At that time and during other meetings with Community Development
staff, issues were identified related to the strength of foot-candles allowed, where foot-
candles are measured from, exemption procedures, up -lighting, maximum spacing of
fixtures and other such issues. The ordinance received several rounds of edits and
reviews.
In addition, following all internal City review, the draft ordinance was reviewed by Chris
Myers, local lighting consultant and co-author of the Lighting Ordinance for the Town of
Basalt. The resulting document is attached.
REVIEW STANDARDS: Chapter 26.92, Amendments To The Land Use Regulations And
Official Zone District Map, at Section 26.92.020 provides nine (A -I) standards for City
Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission's review of proposed amendments to the
text of the Land Use Code. These standards and staffs evaluation of the potential
amendment relative to them are provided below, with the standard in italics followed by the
staff "response."
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable portions of this
title.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any applicable
portions of the Aspen Municipal Code.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any elements of the
AACP.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and
land uses, considering existing land uses and neighborhood characteristics.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment does not impact land uses or zone districts per se,
and the lighting limitations protect existing neighborhood character.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment will not have any effect on traffic generation
and will improve road safety by reducing night lighting glare.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in demands
on public facilities, and whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment
would exceed the capacity of such public facilities, including but not limited to
transportation facilities, sewage facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools,
and emergency medical facilities.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have an effect on
infrastructure or infrastructure capacities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in
significantly adverse impacts on the natural environment.
I • •
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have a negative effect on
the natural environment. In fact, staff believes that by establishing a limit to lighting levels
and related glare, there should be less visual impact on the surrounding natural environment
and wildlife.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community
character in the City of Aspen.
RESPONSE: Staff believes that limiting the lighting levels in the City of Aspen will protect
visibility of the night sky and maintain the small town feel of the community, two features
highly valued by local residents. Lighting levels will still be adequate by national standards
and it will not compromise community safety.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the
surrounding neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
RESPONSE: There has been no significant change in Aspen's general character. The
concern that prompted this ordinance was a desire to protect the character of Aspen and the
visibility of stars in the night sky. This is one of many land use code amendments staff will
be bringing before the commission throughout the year.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the public interest, and is
in harmony with the purpose and intent of this title.
RESPONSE: Staff believes the proposed amendment would be in harmony with the public
interest by ensuring the continued health, safety and welfare of Aspen residents and visitors
while maintaining visibility of the night sky and protecting the small town community
character.
Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of this ordinance.
Recommended Motion
"I move to recommend to City Council Resolution Number 24, series of 1999 which
amends the land use code by establishing a lighting ordinance for the City of Aspen."
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City of Aspen
Draft Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Supplemental Regulations 26.575.150
Sub -Sections:
A. Intent and Purpose.
B. Applicability.
C. Definitions.
D. Lighting Plans.
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards.
F. Residential Lighting Standards.
G. Street Lighting Standards.
H. Exemptions.
I. Prohibitions.
J. Nonconforming Lighting.
K. General Requirements
L. Review Standards.
M. Procedures.
A. Intent and Purpose. The City of Aspen has experienced a significant increase in the use
of exterior illumination. City residents' value small town character and the qualities associated
with this character, including the ability to view the stars against a dark sky. They recognize that
inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant
conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of
electric power. It is also recognized that some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
This Section is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Aspen
through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting.
B. Applicability. The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all outdoor
lighting within the City of Aspen. Existing outdoor lighting shall be considered legal non-
conforming lighting for three years from the adoption date of this ordinance.
C. Definitions.
(a) Fully Shielded Light: light fixtures shielded or constructed so that no light rays
are directly emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as certified by a
photometric test report. The fixture must also be properly installed to effectively down direct
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light in order to conform with the definition. Exemptions from this definition may be allowed
for aesthetic lighting elements such as shades with perforated patterns and opaque diffusers.
(b) Foot-candles: a unit of illumination of a surface that is equal to one lumen per
square foot. For the purposes of these regulations, foot-candles shall be measured at a height of
3 ft. above finished grade.
(c) Fixture Height: height of the fixture shall be the vertical distance from the ground
directly below the centerline of the fixture to the lowest direct light emitting part of the fixture.
(d) High Intensity Discharge Light Source (HID): Light sources characterized by an
arc tube or discharge capsule that produces light, with typical sources being metal halide, high
pressure sodium, and other similar types which are developed in accordance with accepted
industry standards.
(e) Point Light Source: the exact place from which illumination is produced (i.e., a
light bulb filament or discharge capsule).
(f) Light Trespass: the shining of light produced by a light fixture beyond the
boundaries of the property on which it is located.
D. Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with applications for
subdivision, planned unit development, development within any environmentally sensitive area,
special review application, and building permit application for a commercial or multi -family
building. Such lighting plans shall be subject to establishment and approval through the
applicable review processes. Said lighting plan shall show the following:
(1) The location and height above grade of light fixtures;
(2) The type (such as incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium) and
luminous intensity of each light source;
(3) The type of fixture (such as floodlight, full -cutoff, lantern, coach light);
(4) Estimates for site illumination resulting from the lighting, as measured in
foot-candles, should include minimum, maximum and average
illumination. Comparable examples already in the community that
demonstrate technique, specification, and/or light level should be provided
if available to expedite the review process; and
(5) Other information deemed necessary by the Community Development
Director to document compliance with the provisions of this Article.
(b) Single family and duplex building shall be in compliance with the standards of
Section 26.575.090.
Page 2 Draft Lighting Ordinance
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to all non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering
areas, or buildings shall conform to the definition for "fully shielded light fixtures" and be
designed, arranged and screened so that the point light source shall not be visible from adjoining
lots or streets. No portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible beyond a distance
equal to or greater than twice the mounting height of the fixture. For example, for a fixture with
a mounting height of twelve (12) feet, no portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible
from twenty-four (24) feet away in any direction. The light level shall not exceed 10 foot-candles
as measured three feet above finished grade. Exemptions may be requested for areas with high
commercial, pedestrian, or vehicular activity up to a maximum of 20 foot-candles.
. (b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or more of the
following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to
a maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material as the primary lens material to enclose the light bulb so as to minimize glare from that
point light source. Exceptions may be. allowed where there is a demonstrated benefit for the
community determined through the exemption process listed in this section.
(d) High Intensity Discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum
wattage of 175 high pressure sodium (HPS) and 175 watt metal halide (coated lamp — 3,000
degrees Kelvin). Standards for other HID light sources may be established by the City for new
technology consistent with the above restrictions.
(e) Security and parking lot light fixtures that are pole mounted shall be spaced at no
less than 75 ft. Fully shielded aesthetic or decorative fixtures are allowed to maintain a 50 ft.
fixture spacing. Wall mounted fixture spacing for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft.
measured horizontally. Aesthetic or decorative fixtures directed back toward a building face shall
be exempt from this spacing requirement when shielded and shall not exceed 50 watts. Aesthetic
or decorative fixtures that are not shielded shall maintain a minimum spacing of 25 ft. and shall
not exceed 50 watts. Where security lighting is a combination of lamp posts and wall fixtures,
minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. and a maximum of 150 ft.
(f) Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole. Decorative
fixtures may be exempted from this requirement up to a maximum of three light sources per
pole.
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
Page 3 Draft Lighting Ordinance 09/23/99
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50% residential based on square
footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements may include
awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree canopies, which can functionally contain or limit
illumination of the sky. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq. ft.
of area (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with a
maximum of 150 watts each. The fixtures must be shielded such that the point source is not
visible outside a 15-ft. radius.
0) Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require approval for lighting. Lighting
shall not exceed a maximum of 20 candles under the canopy.
F. Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be applicable to
residential properties:
(a.) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or more of the
following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
0 Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to a
maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(b.) Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp) shall
be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including halogen shall not exceed 50
watts.
(c.) All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point
source.
(d) Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq. ft.
(e) Security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or
streets.
2. Flood lights must be controlled by a switch or preferably a motion
sensor activated only by motion within owners property.
3. Photo -cell or timer controlled flood lights shall be prohibited.
4. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from
adjacent properties in a manner that prevents light trespass
5. Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
Page 4 Draft Lighting Ordinance 09/23/99
finished grade.
6. No light fixture shall be greater than 12 feet in height. Exceptions are:
(a.) Tree mounted fully shielded, downward directed lights using a
light of 25 watts or less, and
(b.) Building mounted flood lights fully shielded, downward directed
lights using a light of 50 watts or less.
(f) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is triggered by
motion within the owners property lines.
(g) Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot-candle as measured
at the brightest point.
G. Street Lighting Standards. All lighting illuminating public right-of-ways and
easements or private streets shall conform with the following standards:
(a) Street Light fixtures shall be approved jointly by the Community Development
and Water Department Directors and shall comply with the guidelines of this ordinance.
H. Exemptions. The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from the
provisions, requirements, and review standards of this Section, including those requirements
pertaining to Zoning Officer review.
1. Holiday Lighting. Winter holiday lighting which is temporary in nature and
which is illuminated only between and including the Thanksgiving Holiday and March 1 shall be
exempt from the provisions of this Section, provided that such lighting does not create dangerous
glare on adjacent streets or properties, is maintained in an attractive condition, and does not
constitute a fire hazard.
2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public health,
safety, and welfare including but not limited to traffic control devices and construction lighting.
3. Temporary Lighting. Any person may submit a written request to the Community
Development Director for a temporary exemption request. If approved, the exemption shall be
valid for not more than fourteen (14) days from the date of issuance of a written and signed
statement of approval or a time period to be approved by the Director. The Director shall have
the authority to refer an application for a temporary exemption to the Planning and Zoning
Commission or the Historic Preservation Commission if deemed appropriate. A temporary
exemption request shall contain at least the following information:
a. Specific exemption or exemptions requested;
b. Type, use and purpose of outdoor lighting fixture(s) involved;
C. Duration of time requested for exemption;
d. Type of lamp and calculated lumens;
e. Total wattage of lamp(s);
f. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor light fixture(s);
Page 5 Draft Lighting Ordinance 09/23/99
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g. Previous temporary exemptions, if any, and addresses of premises thereunder;
h. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided; and,
i. Such other information as may be required by the Community Development
Department Director.
4. Approved Historic Lighting Fixtures. Non -conforming lighting fixtures which are
consistent with the character of the historic structure or district may be exempted with approval
from the Historic Preservation Officer or Historic Preservation Commission. As such, these
fixtures should not exceed 50 watts.
5. If a proposed lighting plan or fixtures are proposed that do not meet this code but
that have demonstrable community benefit per the Community Development Director, an
exemption may be considered.
I. Prohibitions. The following types of exterior lighting sources, fixtures, and installations
shall be prohibited in the City of Aspen.
1. Light sources shall not be affixed to the top of a roof or under a roof eave, except
where required by building code.
2. Lighting for the purpose of illuminating a building facade shall be prohibited
when such lighting is mounted to the ground or poles, or is mounted on adjoining/adjacent
structures.
3. Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing intensity,
and changing color lights and internally illuminated signs shall be prohibited, except for
temporary holiday displays, lighting for public safety or traffic control, or lighting required by
the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
4. Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting shall be prohibited due to their
poor color rendering qualities.
5. Linear lighting (including but not limited to neon and fluorescent lighting)
primarily intended as an architectural highlight to attract attention or used as a means of
identification or advertisement shall be prohibited.
6. Unshielded flood lights shall be prohibited.
7. Lighting directed toward the Roaring Fork River or its tributaries.
8. No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with the safe
movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. The following is prohibited:
a. Any fixed light not designed for roadway illumination that produces direct
light or glare that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor vehicle.
b. Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic control
device except as authorized by State, Federal, or City government.
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9. No beacon or search light shall be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
10. Up -lighting is prohibited, except as otherwise provided for in this Section.
J. Nonconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this ordinance, within three
(3) years of the effective date of this ordinance, all out door lighting fixtures that do not conform
to requirements of this ordinance must be replaced with conforming fixtures or existing fixtures
must be retrofitted to comply. Until that time, all existing outdoor lighting fixtures that do not
already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
K. General Requirements
1. Shielding, Visibility and Glare.
a. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that prevents light trespass.
b. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
c. All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize
glare from a point source.
d. Up -lighting is only permitted in non-residential areas and if the light
distribution from the fixture is effectively contained by an overhanging
architectural or landscape elements. Such elements may include awnings,
roof overhangs, and dense shrubs which can functionally reflect illumination
back to the ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture
per 150 sq. ft. of areas (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp
wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
e. Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts each in conjunction with commercial or public use.
The fixtures must be shielded such that the point source is not visible outside a
15-ft. radius.
f. Outdoor lighting installation shall not exceed a maximum foot candle ratio of
four to one (4:1) relative to neighboring and adjacent properties within a zone
district.
2. Foot Candles.
a. Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq.ft. measured
horizontally.
b. Security lighting and flood light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles
measured 3 ft. above finished grade.
c. Sign illumination shall be allowed only in commercially zoned areas and shall
9 ^ not exceed 75 foot candles as measured at the brightest point on the sign face.
No internal illumination is allowed.
3. Architectural Compatibility.
a. Lighting fixtures on inventoried historic structures shall be consistent with the
architectural period and design style and shall be approved by the Historic
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Preservation Officer, or at the discretion of the Historic Preservation Officer
may be referred to the Historic Preservation Commission.
L. Review Standards.
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be twelve (12) feet or
less above grade in height. Special review by the Planning and Zoning Commission may
allow lighting of a greater height under the following circumstances:
a. A fixture at a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for commercial parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a
maximum height of 20 feet above grade and shall be fully shielded, or
c. Lighting on above -grade decks or balconies, which shall be fully shielded.
2. Foot Candles. Outdoor Non -Residential (26.575.070), Sign (26.575.080), and
Residential (26.575.090) Lighting Standards shall not exceed the foot candles designated
in their respective sections. Special review by the Planning and Zoning Commission may
allow lighting of a greater intensity under the following circumstances:
a. A fixture of a greater light intensity is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. An architectural or historical feature requires greater illumination, in which case
the light shall be fully shielded with a non adjustable mounting.
M. Procedures.
Special Review Procedures, see Section XXX
Administrative Review Procedures, see Section XXY
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436709 10/18/1999 11:23A RESI DAVIS SIL.VI
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RESOLUTION OF THE ASPEN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE
LAND USE CODE, APPROVE THE LIGHTING ORDINANCE.
Resolution #99 - 31
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the
City of Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development
Department to propose a lighting ordinance as an amendment the land use code; and,
WHEREAS, the amendment requested relate to Section 26.575.150, of the land
use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title
26 of the Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval
with conditions, or denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning
Commission at a public hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and
considering these recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director also recommended approval of amendments
r
to Sections 26.515.020, 26.435.040 and 26.435.060 of the land use code of the Aspen
Municipal Code as described herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed Lighting Ordinance on September 7, 1999, and continued the
hearing to September 28, 1999, took and considered public testimony and the
recommendation of the Planning Director and recommended, by a five to zero (5-0) vote,
City Council adopt the proposed Lighting Ordinance amendment to the land use code by
amending the text of sections 26.575., 26.515.020, 26.435.040 and 26.435.060 of the land
use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Commission:
That the Aspen City Council should adopt the Lighting Ordinance by amending the Land
Use Code of the Municipal Code, as follows:
Section 1•
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning
Commission hereby recommends City Council replace Section 26.575.150, in total with
the following language: (see attached code language)
111111111111,111111111111111 G11:23�l I I I I I II 111111111111111
436709 10DAVIS SILVI
2 of 2 R 10.00 D 0.00 N 0.00 PITKIN COUNTY CO
Section 2•
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning
Commission hereby recommends City Council the following code sections as follows:
(Changes in italics)
26.515.020 Characteristics of off-street parking spaces and access to street or alley
G. Restrictions on lighting. Lighting facilities for off-street parking spaces, if
provided, shall be arranged and shielded so that lights neither unreasonably disturb
occupants of adjacent residential dwellings or interfere with driver vision and shall be in
compliance with the lighting ordinance in section 26.575.210.
26.435.040 Stream Margin Review Standards.
11. All exterior lighting is low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward the river
or located down the slope and shall be in compliance with the lighting ordinance in
section 26.575.210;
26.435.060 Hallam Lake Bluff review standards.
5. All exterior lighting shall be low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward
the nature preserve or located down the slope and shall be in compliance with the lighting
ordinance in section 26.575.210.
APPROVED by the Commission during a public hearing on September 28, 1999.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
C4 Attorney
ATTEST:
)ackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
CAmydocs/lighting/Reso.doc
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION:
Jasmine Tygre, Vice -Chair
•
RESOLUTION OF THE ASPEN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE
LAND USE CODE, APPROVE THE LIGHTING ORDINENCE.
Resolution #99 - 24
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the
City of Aspen directed the Planning Director of the Community Development
Department to propose a lighting ordinance as an amendment the land use code; and,
WHEREAS, the amendment requested relate to Section 26.575.150, of the land
use code of the Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title
26 of the Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval
with conditions, or denial by the Planning Director and then by the Planning and Zoning
Commission at a public hearing. Final action shall be by City Council after reviewing and
considering these recommendations; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning Director also recommended approval of amendments
to Sections 26.515.020, 26.435.040 and 26.435.060 of the land use code of the Aspen
Municipal Code as described herein; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed Lighting Ordinance on September 7, 1999, and continued the
hearing to September 28, 1999, took and considered public testimony and the
recommendation of the Planning Director and recommended, by a ( - ) vote,
City Council adopt the proposed Lighting Ordinance amendment to the land use code by
amending the text of sections 26.575., 26.515.020, 26.435.040 and 26.435.060 of the land
use code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Commission:
That the Aspen City Council should adopt the Lighting Ordinance by amending the Land
Use Code of the Municipal Code, as follows:
Section 1
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning
Commission hereby recommends City Council replace Section 26.575.150, in total with
the following language: (see attached code language)
P&Z Reso. 99-22, page 1
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Section 2•
Pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Municipal Code, the Aspen Planning and Zoning
Commission hereby recommends City Council the following code sections as follows:
(Changes in italics)
26.515.020 Characteristics of off-street parking spaces and access to street or alley
G. Restrictions on lighting. Lighting facilities for off-street parking spaces, if
provided, shall be arranged and shielded so that lights neither unreasonably disturb
occupants of adjacent residential dwellings or interfere with driver vision and shall be in
compliance with the lighting ordinance in section 26.575.210.
26.435.040 Stream Margin Review Standards.
11. All exterior lighting is low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward the river
or located down the slope and shall be in compliance with the lighting ordinance in
section 26.575.210;
26.435.060 Hallam Lake Bluff review standards.
5. All exterior lighting shall be low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward
the nature preserve or located down the slope and shall be in compliance with the lighting
ordinance in section 26.575.210.
APPROVED by the Commission during a public hearing on September 28, 1999.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
City Attorney
ATTEST:
Jackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
CAmydocs/I ighting/Reso.doc
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION:
Robert Blaich, Chair
P&Z Reso. 99-22, page 2
•
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
THRU: Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
Joyce Ohlson, Deputy Director
FROM: Mitch Haas, Planner
RE: Improved Outdoor Lighting Regulations --- Work Session
DATE: April 20, 1999
SUMMARY: Staff has received direction from City Council to improve upon the
existing City regulations with regard to outdoor lighting. To get an idea of the extent of
regulation desired, staff informally surveyed City Council members and received three
sets of responses. From these, there was unanimous support for regulation of the
following types or areas of concern:
• Street lighting;
• Security Lighting (including parking areas, residential, commercial, and driveways);
• Existing invasive/unshielded lighting;
• Fixture types (shielded, cut-off, flood, pole -mounted, etc.);
• Types of light sources (neon, incandescent, halogen, mercury vapor, halide, etc.);
• Lighting intensity/illumination levels (foot-candles);
• Wattages (power consumption);
• Direction of illumination (down -directional, away from R.O.W., etc. --- related to
"trespass");
• Fixture heights;
• Glare and trespass; and,
• Lighting of landscaping and water courses.
There was also some, but not unanimous, support for regulation of the following types or
areas of concern:
• Sign lighting;
• Walkway/bikeway lighting;
• Lighting of exterior sports/performance facilities;
• Outdoor display lighting; and,
• Blinking/flashing lights, exclusive of holiday lighting.
There are many highly qualified experts in the field of outdoor lighting and its regulation.
Many of these experts have consulting firms that would love to have a contract to work
with the community to arrive at a set of improved and comprehensive outdoor lighting
regulations for the City of Aspen. In fact, one of the most widely recognized and
accomplished professionals in the field, Nancy Clanton, P.E., (Clanton and Associates) is
based in Boulder and has expressed an interest in working with the City of Aspen.
N
On the other hand, there are many jurisdictions that have hired experts and adopted
comprehensive lighting regulations that staff can "borrow from" to save money and still
arrive at a strong, effective set of regulations. For instance, staff has attached an
annotated list/summary of outdoor lighting regulations from Aspen, Pitkin County,
Basalt, Telluride, Snowmass Village, and Douglas County, as well as a model outdoor
lighting ordinance done for Vermont municipalities. Staff believes that picking and
choosing from these examples while modifying specifics to fit our community will result
in a successful ordinance. From these examples, staff has determined that outdoor
lighting ordinances address/regulate the following general areas of concern through
various approaches:
• Direction of illumination (shielding types, lens color, etc.);
• Fixture heights;
• Types of lighting sources (incandescent, neon, halide, mercury vapor, fluorescent,
high and low pressure sodium, halogen, etc.);
• Wattages (power consumption);
• Illumination levels (foot-candles) and/or Uniformity ratios (ratio of average to
minimum illuminance in foot-candles);
• Fixture types (flood, full cut-off, motion sensor, etc.);
• Separation distances (spacing between fixtures/sources);
• Glare and trespass (via uplighting and shielding provisions);
• Amount (of lamps/sources);
• Time limitations (time of day lamps may be on --- i.e., sign lighting must be turned
off one hour after the close of business);
• Holiday lighting;
• Prohibitions (i.e., no beacon/search lights, no mercury vapor or low pressure
sodium, etc.);
• Nonconforming lighting (lighting rendered nonconforming by new regulations);
• Enforcement (by whom and how);
• Fixture/source locations (i.e. setbacks from roads and residential uses, on roofs,
etc.)
• Lighting color (known as color rendering, usually addressed under "prohibitions")
• Types of lighting installations (regulation by use);
• Lighting zone districts (different standards by zone district); and,
• Fixture design (usually for historic districts/areas/buildings).
GOAL OF WORK SESSION: At this time, staff would like direction regarding which
of the general areas of concern and approaches listed above (and in the attached
documents) would this community, as represented by the Planning and Zoning
Commission, support regulating (?). Staff would also appreciate commissioners
reviewing the attached summaries with the intention of identifying specific ideas to
suggest incorporating into Aspen's ordinance. Once the general areas/concerns to
regulate are identified and general approaches are suggested, staff is confident it will be
able to adequately piece together the specific code language to propose.
•
The following provides an annotated list/summary of outdoor lighting regulations in Aspen,
Pitkin County, Basalt, Telluride, Snowmass Village, and Douglas County, as well as a model
outdoor lighting ordinance done for Vermont municipalities. Basalt's regulations are recently
adopted, and Snowmass Village is in the process of preparing an ordinance similar to that of
Basalt. The description provided herein of Snowmass Village's regulations represent their
existing provisions, not those being prepared for consideration/adoption. Note that maximum
lighting levels used in most of these ordinances are based on recommendations contained in the
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) Lighting Handbook, and staff has
recently been informed that the IESNA recommendations for communities are being revised since
they were producing lighting levels that were too high. The new IESNA report will be issued in a
few weeks.
Existing Lighting -Related Regulations in Aspen:
• Supplementary Regulations: "Any light used to illuminate parking areas or for any other
purpose shall be so arranged as to reflect the light away from nearby residential properties
and vision of passing motorists."
• Stream Margin Review: "All exterior lighting is low and downcast with no light(s) directed
toward the river or located down the slope."
• Hallam Lake Bluff Review: "All exterior lighting shall be low and downcast with no light(s)
directed toward the nature preserve or located down the slope."
• Planned Unit Developments (PUD): "All lighting shall be arranged so as to prevent direct
glare or hazardous interference of any kind to adjoining streets or lands."
• Engineering Design Standards under "Subdivision": "Street lights shall be placed at a
maximum spacing of three hundred (300) feet. Ornamental street lights are desirable."
• The sign code (Chapter 26.36) contains the following regulations regarding lighting of signs:
• "Lights permanently affixed to a building and made an integral part of the building
architecturally, designed for that building, directed only at and not away from the
building, and shielded in such a manner that the light source is fixed and is not directly
visible from any public right-of-way or any area outside the lot on which the building is
located, provided such lights are not flashing lights [are exempt from sign regulations]."
• "Signs with lights or illuminations which flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker,
vary in intensity, vary in color, or use intermittent electrical pulsations [are prohibited for
erection, repair, alteration, relocation or placement in the City of Aspen]."
• "Neon lights, televisions used for advertising or information, and other gas -filled light
tubes, except when used for indirect illumination and in such a manner as to not be
directly exposed to public view [are prohibited]."
• "Search lights or beacons [are prohibited]."
• 'A sign or illumination that causes any direct glare into or upon any public right-of-way,
adjacent lot, or building other than the building to which the sign may be accessory [is
prohibited]."
• "Strip lighting outlining commercial structures and used to attract attention for
commercial purposes, and strings of light bulbs used in any connection with commercial
premises unless the lights shall be shielded [are prohibited]."
• "Unsafe signs" are prohibited, including signs that cause glare or in any way obstruct the
view of vehicle operators or pedestrians entering a public roadway from any parking area,
service drive, public driveway, alley or other throughfare.
• "No sign shall be illuminated through the use of internal illumination, rear illumination,
fluorescent illumination or neon or other gas tube illumination, except when used for
indirect illumination and in such a manner as to not be directly exposed to public view."
• "Illumination of signs shall be designed, located, shielded and directed in such a manner
that the light source is fixed and is not directly visible from, and does not cast glare or
direct light from artificial illumination upon, any adjacent public right-of-way,
surrounding property, residential property or motorist's vision."
• "Nonconforming signs which were in existence on or before May 25, 1988, shall be
discontinued on or before November 25, 1988."
0
• "A home occupation identification sign may be illuminated only when it is identifying a
home occupation of an emergency service nature. A multi -family dwelling complex or
mobile home park identification sign may be illuminated."
• In addition to the regulations described above, the City of Aspen has adopted an Electrical
Code and an Energy Code as parts of the Building requirements.
Pitkin County:
• "All lighting shall be designed so that the lighting element (or transparent shield) is not
directly visible from adjoining properties or public rights -of -way."
• Maximum light source height (from the ground) and intensity (as measured at the property
line) are set as follows: for public parking lots, 12%15' in height at 0-0.5 foot-candles; for
pedestrian walkways and driveways, utilize pole -type lighting up to 4' in height at 0.1-0.5
foot-candles; for vehicular intersections, 20'-25' in height at 0.5-1.0 foot-candles; for high -
activity pedestrian areas, 10%12' in height at 0.5-1.0 foot-candles; for security areas, less
than 20' in height, designed to prevent glare onto adjacent properties, and at 1.0-2.0 foot-
candles; and, for primary entrance signs, sculpture and landscape features lighting must
comply with the design standards applicable to signs.
• "Mounting high intensity spot- or floodlights on buildings is prohibited."
• Temporary holiday decorations, including those with lights, maintained in an attractive
condition that does not present a fire hazard do not require a development permit provided
certain design standards are complied with. The design standards (applicable to all signs)
address heights, setbacks, lettering, locations, materials, area/size, and similar parameters.
• "Signs illuminated by high intensity, gas -filled lights or strings of lights are prohibited."
• "Any light illuminating signs shall be indirect and arranged to reflect light away from nearby
properties and the vision of passing motorists."
• "The total wattage of all bulbs used for lighting the face of any sign shall not exceed seventy-
five (75) watts for incandescent bulbs and forty (40) watts for fluorescent bulbs."
Basalt:
Regulates lighting by wattage and foot-candles, as well as by fixture type, height, and
directionality. Requires submittal of Outdoor Lighting Plans with land use applications and
building permit application plan sets. Outdoor Lighting Plans must include the location and
height of all fixtures; the type of light source(s) (incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium,
etc.) and their respective wattage; fixture types (flood, full cut-off, lanterns, etc.); estimated site
illumination in foot-candles (lighting intensity); and, "other information deemed necessary to
document compliance with the provisions." Specifically regulates street lighting; non-residential
and mixed use installations; sign lighting; and, residential lighting as summarized below.
Street Lighting:
• All fixtures must be fully -shielded
• Maximum fixture heights
• Minimum separation distances between fixtures
• Fixture types
Non -Residential and Mixed -Use:
• Lighting used to illuminate parking, driveways, maneuvering areas, or buildings --- regulated
in terms of glare, trespass, and illumination levels (foot-candles)
• Maximum fixture heights
• Fixture shielding (no clear lenses)
• Fixture spacing (for security and parking lot lighting including wall mounted fixtures,
aesthetic fixtures, and lamppost and aesthetic fixture combinations)
• Amount of light sources (lamps) per pole -mounted fixture
• Up -lighting containment
Sign Lighting:
• All provisions applicable to non-residential and mixed -use developments
• Lighting intensity/illumination levels (no more than 75 foot-candles)
N
• Sign lighting in residential areas and/or residential zone districts
• Time limits (i.e., must be shut off by a certain time of night)
Residential Lighting:
• Maximum fixture heights
• Deck and balcony lighting (must be fully -shielded)
• Maximum wattage levels for particular types of light sources
• Maximum wattage and minimum spacing requirements for landscape lighting
• Fixture shielding (no clear lenses) and glare minimization
• Flood and security lighting regulated in terms of glare, trespass, fixture types (fully shielded,
down -directional), and light intensity (not to exceed 10 foot-candles); photocell or timer -
controlled lights are prohibited, and certain types of motion sensor lights are encouraged
• Up -lighting containment
Exemptions:
• Holiday lighting between November I" and April 15'h
• Municipal lighting of a temporary nature (up to 90 days)
• Lighting for outdoor recreational facilities (subject to specified exemption review standards
and requirements)
• Procedures for exemptions
Prohibited Lighting:
• Roof -top, except where required by building code
• Flood illumination of buildings from ground or pole -mounted lights, or from lights mounted
on adjoining structures
• Lights which flash, move, revolve, scintillate, blink, flicker, vary in intensity, change color,
or use intermittent electrical pulsation
• Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting
• Linear lighting (including neon, fluorescent, rope -lighting, and low -voltage strip lighting)
primarily intended as an architectural highlight to attract attention or used as a means of
identification or advertisement
Nonconforming Lighting:
• Legal nonconformities created by these regulations shall not be moved, changed in use or
light type, nor replaced or structurally altered without being brought into conformance
• Conformity shall be required at the time of building permit application or development
review application (such as rezoning, special review, PUD, SPA, ESA, conditional use, etc.)
Enforcement:
• Same as zoning enforcement
• Night-time inspections prior to C.O.
Town of Telluride:
Telluride has set guidelines for outdoor lighting in its historic district; the guidelines are used by
their equivalent of an Historic Preservation Commission. Their HARC (similar to Aspen's HPC)
may call back projects in which obtrusive lighting schemes fail to meet the intent of the
guidelines, and the HARC may require applicants to provide lighting plans where lighting design
appears to be an issue. The guidelines apply to all types of external light sources, including site
lights and those attached to buildings. The guidelines address site lighting and building lighting
as follows:
• General: Shielding to prevent glare onto adjacent properties and rights -of -way; down -
directional cut-off fixtures encouraged; up -lighting and high intensity light sources are
prohibited .
• General: Light color and intensity should be similar to that used traditionally; low intensity
lighting of warm colors that simulate daylight (blue or orange casts are discouraged);
unshielded flood lights, sodium, mercury vapor, and neon are characterized as inappropriate.
• Site Lighting: Site lighting should be simple in character (form and detail), at a pedestrian
scale, emphasize safety, and help to define different functional areas of the property.
Site Lighting: To minimize the visual impact of site lighting, lamps with a maximum
equivalent of a 40 watt incandescent bulb are encouraged; site lighting should be down -
directional only to prevent glare and to encourage pedestrian activity; all lighting should be
shielded, including lighting of service and parking areas; timers or light -activated switches
may be required to control the length of time that exterior lights are in use late at night.
Building Lighting: In general, lighting used to illuminate the exterior of a building should be
minimized and limited to helping with identification of entrances, highlighting details (not
illuminating entire facades) and improving safety. Large glass surfaces (windows) should
also be reviewed as potential sources of glare as seen from public ways and of light pollution
affecting the night sky, and as such should be minimized. Designs that would "wash" an
entire building wall in light are inappropriate.
Town of Snowmass Village:
Snowmass Village has formal standards regarding the illumination of parking areas, including the
following regulations:
• Any light used to illuminate parking areas or for any other purpose (including security) shall
be so arranged as to reflect the light away from adjacent residential properties and vision of
passing motorists.
• Lighting facilities, if provided, shall be arranged so that lights neither unreasonably disturb
occupants of adjacent residential properties nor interfere with driver vision.
• Responsibility for complying with these requirements rests with the owner of the property.
In addition the Town of Snowmass Village has "Basic Design Committee Standards for Approval
of Exterior Lighting" applicable to residential properties. These standards require specifications
and photographs (or catalog sheets) of any and all proposed exterior lighting fixtures along with
plans showing the proposed location of each fixture. All designs and placement must meet the
following minimum criteria:
• No flood lights.
• All lights must be shielded.
• No goose -neck spots.
• No exterior light source may be placed closer than five (5) feet to another exterior light
source. Each bulb is a light source e.g. single bulb fixtures only.
• No exterior light source may exceed a rating of 60 watts.
• Lighting must shine in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the floor of the dwelling.
• No exterior uplighting will be allowed.
• No neon, incandescent, halogen, or mercury vapor lighting will be approved.
• All installations must comply with the currently adopted edition of the National Electrical
Code.
• Examples of certain types of permitted and not permitted fixtures are provided.
Douglas County, Colorado:
Douglas County has adopted lighting standards with the intent of preventing motorized vehicle
and pedestrian conflicts, providing personal safety and protection against crime, providing
convenience and comfort levels to the users of sites, and minimizing negative effects of light
pollution and trespass. Their standards apply to all exterior lighting as follows:
• All lighting must be shielded such that the source of illumination (bulb or direct lamp image)
is not visible from any adjacent property. All lighting shall employ true cut-off fixtures.
• All lights must be retrofitted with shielding and true cut-off fixtures.
• All lights, except as required for security, must be off within one hour after the end of
business hours and remain off until one hour prior to opening. For security, a maximum of
1.5 foot-candles at entrances, stairways and loading docks, and 0.5 foot-candles on the rest of
the site is permitted.
• Lights mounted on poles or on the ground for purposes of illuminating a building facade or
prohibited.
•
• Incandescent bulbs of 150 watts or less may be used to illuminate landscape plantings,
pedestrian walkways, signage, or product display areas. Same time limits described above
apply to signage lighting, too.
• Blinking, flashing or changing intensity lights and lighted signs are prohibited, except for
temporary holiday displays or lighting required by the FAA.
• No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with the safe movement
of motor vehicles on public throughfares.
• No beacon or search lights may be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
• All stadium or ballfield lighting used for the purpose of illuminating a playing area must be
extinguished by 10:00 p.m. or immediately after the final event of the day. The remainder of
the facility lighting, except for reasons of security, must be extinguished at 10:00 p.m. or
within one hour after the event, whichever is later.
• Maximum fixture height for all lighting shall be: 24' when located within 75' of the site's
boundary; and, 40' when located beyond 75' from the site's boundary provided that for
mounting heights in excess of 24', the distance of the fixture to the site's boundary be not less
than three times the mounting height.
• All fixtures mounted within 15' of any residential property line or public right-of-way
boundary shall be fitted with a "house side shielding" reflector (minimizes light directed
toward the rear of the fixture) on the side facing the residential or R.O.W. property line.
• Acceptable bulb types include only High Pressure Sodium (HPS), Metal Halide (coated
preferred), and Incandescent.
• Maximum on -site illumination shall not exceed 10 foot-candles. In areas adjacent to
buildings, said 10 foot-candle maximum shall include light spillage from within the building
as well as light from signage. Conversely, minimum maintained on -site illumination shall be
0.5 foot-candles.
• Light levels measured 20' beyond the site's property line (adjacent to residential or public
R.O.W.) shall never exceed 0.1 foot-candles as a direct result of the on -site lighting.
Outdoor Lighting Manual for Vermont Munici
Model Ordinance:
The "Vermont Outdoor Lighting Study" identified nine (9) types of outdoor lighting installations
that municipalities may wish to regulate. Since lighting technology is always evolving, the
suggested approach tends toward establishment of performance standards within which numerous
design solutions are possible, and is intended to provide a sound starting point for municipalities
striving to develop their own unique regulations. The nine types of installations addressed in the
model ordinance include: 1) parking lot lighting; 2) street lighting; 3) lighting of gasoline
station aprons/canopies; 4) lighting of exterior sales areas; 5) lighting of exterior
sports/performance facilities; 6) security lighting; 7) illuminated building facades and
landscaping; 8) illuminated signs; and, 9) illuminated walkways and park areas.
The Vermont Model Ordinance is attached hereto (it's a bit too long and complex to adequately
and accurately summarize, but provides many worthwhile directions/suggestions).
1 0
Memorandum
To: Aspen City Council
Thru: Amy Margerum, Aspen City Manager
N
From: Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
Date: November 22, 1999
Re: Code Amendment — Lighting
Second Reading of Lighting Ordinance No. 47, Series of 1999, Public Hearing
Summary
The City of Aspen has experienced an increase in the use of exterior illumination. City residents'
value small town character and the qualities associated with this character, including the ability
to view the stars against a dark sky. They recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or
installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy
the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that
some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
The draft Lighting Ordinance is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the
residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting and light
trespass.
Background
The City Council of the City of Aspen requested that a lighting ordinance be drafted and
considered as a code revision. Staff held a work session with the Planning and Zoning
Commission on April 20, 1999 and identified the issues the Commissioners wished to see
addressed. Staff was directed at that time to utilize Basalt's recently adopted ordinance as a
model and to build upon that work to meet Aspen's needs.
Staff met with the Planning and Zoning Commission in October and they approved the ordinance
by a vote of 5 to 0. They suggested some changes which are detailed later in this memo. The
ordinance was passed at first reading before City Council for first reading on October 25.
Referral Comments:
The draft Lighting Ordinance was presented to the Development Review Committee at a meeting
on August 11, 1999. All interested departments were invited to review the ordinance and
comments were received from Engineering, Building, and the City Attorneys Office. At that time
and during other meetings with Community Development staff, issues were identified related to
the strength of foot-candles allowed, where foot-candles are measured from, exemption
procedures, up -lighting, maximum spacing of fixtures and other such issues. The ordinance
received several rounds of edits and reviews.
In addition, following all internal City staff review, the draft ordinance was reviewed by Chris
Myers, local lighting consultant and co-author of the Lighting Ordinance for the Town of Basalt.
The resulting ordinance is attached, and would be located under Supplemental Regulations in the
Land Use Code.
Review Standards
Please see attached Exhibit A.
Planning and Zoning Commission Comments:
The Planning and Zoning Commission passed a resolution with a vote of 5 to 0 in support of the
proposed ordinance with the following changes.
1. Reduce the time period to come into compliance from 3 years to 1 year and add a timeframe
in which to correct the problem;
2. Reduce the time period allowed for holiday lighting from March 1 to January 15;
3. Simplify the instrument of measurements if possible (lumens, foot-candles and watts); and
4. Make efforts to coordinate with the County for the Metro Area so that there is some
consistency in zoning codes for outdoor lighting standards.
Staff Recommendation:
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended reducing the time period for compliance
with this ordinance. Staff concurs with that recommendation but has some concerns that the cost
of compliance may be onerous, especially for residential users. It should be noted that all new
lighting is expected to comply with the new ordinance, so no new non -conformities will be
created.
In addition, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended curtailing the time period in
which all holiday lights could be displayed. Staff recommends that decorative lighting of trees
with white mini -bulbs be exempted, especially within the downtown area. Banning all holiday
lighting after January 15 would require private businesses and the City to remove lights from the
trees on the pedestrian mall and other areas heavily visited by pedestrians in the winter. Staff
feels that this lighting adds a pleasant atmosphere to the downtown area on dark winter
afternoons and has no ill effects on the community. Staff recommends that holiday lighting be
allowed until March 1.
After reviewing the pending Pitkin County Lighting Ordinance, staff recommends that the City
Ordinance be modified to allow photo -cell lights under the following conditions:
a) At primary points of entrance (e.g. front entries) or in critical common areas for
commercial and multi family properties; b) where the light sources are fully -shielded by
opaque material (i.e. the fixture illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright); and
c) the light source or fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate excess electricity
consumption.
Recommended Motion
"I move to approve Ordinance Number 47, Series of 1999, on second reading."
City Manager's Comments
Attachments: Exhibit A Review Standards
G:/pl ann ing/aspen/text/l ighting.doc
716 10V
Memorandum SA---4
To: Aspen City Council J�
Thru: Amy Margerum, Aspen City Manager
1�
N
From: Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
Date: November 22, 1999
Re: Code Amendment — Lighting
Second Reading of Lighting Ordinance No. 47, Series of 1999, Public Hearing
Summary
The City of Aspen has experienced an increase in the use of exterior illumination. City residents'
value small town character and the qualities associated with this character, including the ability
to view the stars against a dark sky. They recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or
installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy
the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that
some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
The draft Lighting Ordinance is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the
residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character:
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting and light
trespass.
Background
The City Council of the City of Aspen requested that a lighting ordinance be drafted and
considered as a code revision. , Staff held a work session with the Planning and Zoning
Commission on April 20, 1999 and identified the issues the Commissioners wished to see
addressed. Staff was directed at that time to utilize Basalt's recently adopted ordinance, as a
model and to build upon that work to meet Aspen's needs.
Staff met with the Planning and Zoning Commission in October and they approved the ordinance
by a vote of 5 to 0. They suggested some changes which are detailed later in this memo. The
ordinance was passed at first reading before City Council for first reading on October 25.
Referral Comments:
The draft Lighting Ordinance was presented to the Development Review Committee at a meeting
on August 11, 1999. All interested departments were invited to review the ordinance and
comments were received from Engineering, Building, and the City Attorneys Office. At that time
and during other meetings with Community Development staff, issues were identified related to
the strength of foot-candles allowed, where foot-candles are measured from, exemption
procedures, up -lighting, maximum spacing of fixtures and other such issues. The ordinance
received several rounds of edits and reviews.
In addition, following all internal City staff review, the draft ordinance was reviewed by Chris
Myers, local lighting consultant and co-author of the Lighting Ordinance for the Town of Basalt.
The resulting ordinance is attached, and would be located under Supplemental Regulations in the
Land Use Code.
Review Standards
Please see attached Exhibit A.
Planning and Zoning Commission Comments:
The Planning and Zoning Commission passed a resolution with a vote of 5 to 0 in support of the
proposed ordinance with the following changes.
1. Reduce the time period to come into compliance from 3 years to 1 year and add a timeframe
LC I in which to correct the problem;
. Reduce the time period allowed for holiday lighting from March 1 to January 15-, ' X-1
3. Simplify the instrument of measurements if possible (lumens, foot-candles and watts), and �r' 6S
4. Make efforts to coordinate with the County for the Metro Area so that there is some �'�
consistency in zoning codes for outdoor lighting standards.
Staff Recommendation:
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended reducing the time period for compliance
with this ordinance. Staff concurs with that recommendation but has some concerns that the cost
of compliance may be onerous, especially for residential users. It should be noted that all new
lighting is expected to comply with the new ordinance, so no new non -conformities will be
created.
In addition, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended curtailing the time period in
which all holiday lights could be displayed. Staff recommends that decorative lighting of trees
with white mini -bulbs be exempted, especially within the downtown area. Banning all holiday
lighting after January 15 would require private businesses and the City to remove lights from the
trees on the pedestrian mall and other areas heavily visited by pedestrians in the winter. Staff
feels that this lighting adds a pleasant atmosphere to the downtown area on dark winter
afternoons and has no ill effects on the community. Staff recommends that holiday lighting be
allowed until March 1.
After reviewing the pending Pitkin County Lighting Ordinance, staff recommends that the City
Ordinance be modified to allow photo -cell lights under the following conditions:
vJ� I 1 v� of Sca � -
�r F�t on �
a) At primary points of entrance (e.g. front entries) or in critical common areas for
commercial and multi family properties; b) where the light sources are fully -shielded by
opaque material (i.e. the fixture illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright),, and
c) the light source or fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate excess electricity
consumption.
Recommended Motion
``I move to approve Ordinance Number 47, Series of 1999, on second reading."
City Manager's Comments
Attachments: Exhibit A Review Standards
G /plannin-%aspen/texdliehting.doc
Exhibit A
REVIEW STANDARDS
Chapter 26.92, Amendments To The Land Use Regulations And Official Zone District Map, at
Section 26.92.020 provides nine (A -I) standards for City Council and the Planning and Zoning
Commission's review of proposed amendments to the text of the Land Use Code. These standards
and staffs evaluation of the potential amendment relative to them are provided below, with the
standard in italics followed by the staff "response."
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable portions of this title.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any applicable portions of the
Aspen Municipal Code.
B. Whether- the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Community Plan.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any elements of the AACP.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and land
uses, considering existing land uses and neighborhood characteristics.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment does not impact land uses or zone districts per se, and the
lighting limitations protect existing neighborhood character.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment will not have any effect on traffic generation and will
improve road safety by reducing night lighting glare.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in demands on public
facilities, and whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would exceed the
capacity of such public facilities, including but not limited to transportation facilities, sewage
facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and emergency medical facilities.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have an effect on infrastructure or
infrastructure capacities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in significantly
adverse impacts on the natural environment.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have a negative effect on the
natural environment. In fact, staff believes that by establishing a limit to lighting levels and related
glare, there should be less visual impact on the surrounding natural environment and wildlife.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community character
in the City of Aspen.
RESPONSE: Staff believes that limiting the lighting levels in the City of Aspen will protect visibility
of the night sky and maintain the small town feel of the community, two features highly valued by
local residents. Lighting levels will still be adequate by national standards and it will not
compromise community safety.
Exhibit A
REVIEW STANDARDS
Chapter 26.92, Amendments To The Land Use Regulations And Official Zone District Map, at
Section 26.92.020 provides nine (A -I) standards for City Council and the Planning and Zoning
Commission's review of proposed amendments to the text of the Land Use Code. These standards
and staffs evaluation of the potential amendment relative to them are provided below, with the
standard in italics followed by the staff "response."
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable portions of this title.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any applicable portions of the
Aspen Municipal Code.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Community Plan.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any elements of the AACP.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and land
uses, considering existing land uses and neighborhood characteristics.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment does not impact land uses or zone districts per se, and the
lighting limitations protect existing neighborhood character.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment will not have any effect on traffic generation and will
improve road safety by reducing night lighting glare.
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in demands on public
facilities, and whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would exceed the
capacity of such public facilities, including but not limited to transportation facilities, sewage
facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and emergency medical facilities.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have an effect on infrastructure or
infrastructure capacities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in significantly
adverse impacts on the natural environment.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have a negative effect on the
natural environment. In fact, staff believes that by establishing a limit to lighting levels and related
glare, there should be less visual impact on the surrounding natural environment and wildlife.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community character
in the City of Aspen.
RESPONSE: Staff believes that limiting the lighting levels in the City of Aspen will protect visibility
of the night sky and maintain the small town feel of the community, two features highly valued by
local residents. Lighting levels will still be adequate by national standards and it will not
compromise community safety.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the surrounding
neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
RESPONSE: There has been no significant change in Aspen's general character. The concern that
prompted this ordinance was a desire to protect the character of Aspen and the visibility of stars in
the night sky. This is one of many land use code amendments staff will be bringing before the
commission throughout the year.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the public interest, and is in
harmony with the purpose and intent of this title.
RESPONSE: Staff believes the proposed amendment would be in harmony with the public interest
by ensuring the continued health, safety and welfare of Aspen residents and visitors while
maintaining visibility of the night sky and protecting the small town community character.
ORDINANCE No. 47
(SERIES OF 1999)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ASPEN,
COLORADO, TO AMEND SECTION 26.575.150, MISCELLANEOUS
SUPPLEMENTAL REGULATIONS, LIGHTING, SECTION 26.515.020,
CHARACTERISTICS OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES AND ACCESS TO
STREET OR ALLEY, SECTION 26.435.040, STREAM MARGIN REVIEW
STANDARDS, SECTION 26.435.060, HALLAM LAKE BLUFF REVIEW
STANDARDS, AND SECTION 26.430.010, PURPOSE STATEMENT OF THE
SPECIAL REVIEW OF THE LAND USE CODE OF THE ASPEN MUNICIPAL
CODE
WHEREAS, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission of the
City of Aspen directed the Community Development Director to propose an outdoor
lighting ordinance as an amendment the Land Use Code pursuant to Section 26.208 and
Section 26.212; and,
WHEREAS, the amendment requested relates primarily to Section 26.575.150, of
the Land Use Code of the Aspen Municipal Code but also to include related minor
amendments to Sections 26.515.020, 26.435.040, 26.435.060 and 26.430.010; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310, applications to amend the text of Title
26 of the Municipal Code shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval
with conditions, or denial by the Community Development Director and then by the
Planning and Zoning Commission at a public hearing; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission opened the public hearing to
consider the proposed Lighting Ordinance on September 7, 1999, and continued the
hearing to September 28, 1999, considered the Ordinance and the recommendation of the
Community Development Director and proposed amendments. The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended by a five to zero (5-0) vote that City Council adopt the
proposed Outdoor Lighting Ordinance amendment to the Land Use Code by amending
the text of sections 26.575.150, 26.515.020, 26.435.040, 26.435.060 and 26.430.010 of
the Land Use Code of the Aspen Municipal Code as described herein; and
WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed and considered the recommendations of
the Community Development Director and the Planning and Zoning Commission at a
City Council meeting on October 25, 1999; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the text amendments to Sections
26.575.150, 26.515.020, 26.435.040, 26.435.060 and 26.430.010 of the Land Use Code
•
a
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the surrounding
neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
RESPONSE: There has been no significant change in Aspen's general character. The concern that
prompted this ordinance was a desire to protect the character of Aspen and the visibility of stars in
the night sky. This is one of many land use code amendments staff will be bringing before the
commission throughout the year.
1. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the public interest, and is in
harmony with the purpose and intent of this title.
RESPONSE: Staff believes the proposed amendment would be in harmony with the public interest
by ensuring the continued health, safety and welfare of Aspen residents and visitors while
maintaining visibility of the night sky and protecting the small town community character.
;� 'S a If III 6,itf
of the Aspen Municipal Code, as described herein, and commonly referred to as the
"Outdoor Lighting Ordinance" meet or exceed all applicable standards and that the
approval is consistent with the goals and elements of the Aspen Area Community Plan;
and,
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that this ordnance furthers and is necessary
for the promotion of public health, safety and welfare.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1
Section 26.575.150, Lighting, is hereby amended by replacing, in total, the
language in said Section with the following text:
Supplemental Regulations, 26.575.150 Outdoor Lighting
A. Intent and Purpose. The City of Aspen has experienced a significant increase in
the use of exterior illumination. City residents' value small town character and the
qualities associated with this character. including the ability to view the stars against a
dark sky. They recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor
lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the
nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that
some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
This Section is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the residents
of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting.
B. Applicability. The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all
outdoor lighting within the City of Aspen. Existing outdoor lighting shall be considered
legal non -conforming lighting for(D yeafrom the adoption date of this ordinance.
C. Definitions.
(a) Fully Shielded Light: light fixtures shielded or constructed so that no light
rays are directly emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as
certified by a photometric test report. The fixture must also be properly installed to
effectively down direct light in order to conform with the definition.
(b) Foot-candles: a unit of illumination of a surface that is equal to one lumen
per square foot. For the purposes of these regulations, foot-candles shall be measured at a
height of 3 ft. above finished grade.
(c) Fixture Height: height of the fixture shall be the vertical distance from the
ground directly below the centerline of the fixture to the lowest direct light emitting part
of the fixture.
(d) High Intensity Discharge Light Source (HID): Light sources characterized
by an arc tube or discharge capsule that produces light, with typical sources being metal
halide, high pressure sodium, and other similar types which are developed in accordance
with accepted industry standards.
(e) Point Light Source: the exact place from which illumination is produced
(i.e., a light bulb filament or discharge capsule).
(f) Light Trespass: the shining of light produced by a light fixture beyond the
boundaries of the property on which it is located.
D. Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with
applications for subdivision, planned unit development, development within any
environmentally sensitive area, special review application, and building permit
application for a commercial or multi -family building. Such lighting plans shall be
subject to establishment and approval through the applicable review processes. Said
lighting plan shall show the following:
(1) The location and height above grade of light fixtures;
(2) The type (such as incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium)
and luminous intensity of each light source;
(3) The type of fixture (such as floodlight, full -cutoff, lantern, coach
light);
(4) Estimates for site illumination resulting from the lighting, as
measured in foot-candles, should include minimum, maximum and
average illumination. Comparable examples already in the
community that demonstrate technique, specification, and/or light
level should be provided if available to expedite the review
process; and
•
•
(5) Other information deemed necessary by the Community
Development Director to document compliance with the provisions
of this Article.
(b) Single family and duplex building shall be in compliance with the
standards of Section 26.575.090.
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to all non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways,
maneuvering areas, or buildings shall conform to the definition for "fully shielded light
fixtures" and be designed, arranged and screened so that the point light source shall not
be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may
be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than twice the mounting height of the
fixture. For example, for a fixture with a mounting height of twelve (12) feet, no portion
of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away in any
direction. The light level shall not exceed 10 foot-candles as measured three feet above
finished grade. Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial,
pedestrian, or vehicular activity up to a maximum of 20 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or
more of the following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to a
maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear
lens material as the primary lens material to enclose the light bulb so as to minimize glare
from that point light source. Exceptions may be allowed where there is a demonstrated
benefit for the community determined through the exemption process listed in this
section.
(d) High Intensity Discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum
wattage of 175 high pressure sodium (HPS) and 175 watt metal halide (coated lamp —
3,000 degrees Kelvin). Standards for other HID light sources may be established by the
City for new technology consistent with the above restrictions.
(e) Spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures that are pole mounted
shall be no less than 75 ft. apart. Decorative fixtures (which are also fully shielded) are
allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing. Wall mounted fixture spacing for security
lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured horizontally. Decorative fixtures directed
back toward a building face shall be exempt from this spacing requirement when shielded
and shall not exceed 50 watts. Decorative fixtures that are not shielded shall maintain a
minimum spacing of 25 ft. and shall not exceed 50 watts. Where security lighting is a
combination of pole and wall mounted fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. and a
maximum of 150 ft.
(f) Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole.
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50% residential based on
square footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such
elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree canopies, which can
functionally contain or limit illumination of the sky. In these cases the fixture spacing is
limited to one fixture per 150 sq. ft. of area (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total
lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts each. The fixtures must be shielded such that the point source is
not visible outside of a 15-ft. radius.
(j) Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require approval for lighting. Lighting
shall not exceed a maximum of 20 candles under the canopy.
F. Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to residential properties:
(a.) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or more of
the following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to a
maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building facade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(b.)Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp)
shall be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including halogen
shall not exceed 50 watts.
(c.) All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize
glare from a point source.
El
(d) Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq. ft. of
landscaped area (as measured in a horizontal plane).
(e) Security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
2. Flood lights must be controlled by a switch or preferably a motion sensor
activated only by motion within owners property.
3. Timer controlled flood lights shall be prohibited.
4. Photo -cell lights shall be allowed under the following circumstances:
a) At primary points of entrance (e.g. front entries) or in critical
common areas for commercial and multi -family properties;
b) where the light sources are fully -shielded by opaque material (i.e.
the fixture illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright); and
c) the light source or fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate
excess electricity consumption.
5. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that limits light trespass to .l of a foot candle as
measured at the property line.
6. Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
finished grade.
7. No light fixture shall be greater than 12 feet in height. Exceptions are:
(a.) Tree mounted fully shielded, downward directed lights using a light of
25 watts or less, and
(b.) Building mounted flood lights fully shielded, downward directed lights
using a light of 50 watts or less.
(f) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is
triggered by motion within the owner's property lines.
(g) Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot-candle as
measured at the brightest point.
G. Street Lighting Standards. All new lighting illuminating public right-of-ways
and easements or private streets shall conform with the following standards: Q.,p
(a) Street Light fixtures shall be approved jointly by the Community
Development and Electric Department Directors and shall comply with the guidelines of
this ordinance.
f
H. Exemptions. The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from
the provisions, requirements, and review standards of this Section, including those G,
requirements pertaining to Zoning Officer review.
4
1. Holiday Lighting. Winter holiday lighting which is temporary in nature
and which is illuminated only between and including November 15 and March 1 shall be
exempt from the provisions of this Section, provided that such lighting does not create
dangerous glare on adjacent streets or properties, is maintained in an attractive condition,
L/ and does not constitute a fire hazard.
2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public
health, safety, and welfare including but not limited to tr control devices, existing
(}� street lights, and construction lighting. 0
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3. Temporary Lighting. Any person may submit a written request to they
Community Development Director for a temporary exemption request. If approved, the
exemption shall be valid for not more than fourteen (14) days from the date of issuance of
a written and signed statement of approval. An additional 14 day temporary exemption
may be approved by the Director. The Director shall have the authority to refer an
application for a temporary exemption to the Planning and Zoning Commission or the
Historic Preservation Commission if deemed appropriate. A temporary exemption request
shall contain at least the following information:
a. Specific exemption or exemptions requested;
b. Type, use and purpose of outdoor lighting fixture(s) involved; �1
0 C. Duration of time requested for exemption; `
/ d. Type of lamp and calculated lumens; �-f
e. Total wattage of lamp(s);
f. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor light fixture(s); �`4.
�'' g. Previous temporary exemptions, if any;
h. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided;
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�� i. Such other information as may be required by the Community `
Development Department Director.
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4. Approved Historic Lighting Fixtures. Non -conforming lighting fixtures
_ , _11�
which are consistent with the character of the historic structure or district may be
f6
exempted with approval from the Historic Preservation Officer or Historic Preservation
^�
Commission. Approved fixtures shall be consistent with the architectural period and
design style of the structure or district and shall not exceed 50 watts.
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5. Decorative lighting elements, such as shades with perforated patterns and
opaque diffusers, may be exempted from the fully -shielded requirement provided they do-
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not exceed 50 watts.
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6. If a proposed lighting plan or fixtures are proposed that do not meet this
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code but that have demonstrable community benefit, an exemption may be considered.
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The applicant shall submit additional information to adequately assess the community
benefit for approval by the Community Development Director.
•
•
I. Prohibitions. The following types of exterior lighting sources, fixtures, and
installations shall be prohibited in the City of Aspen.
1. Light sources shall not be affixed to the top of a roof or under a roof eave,
except where required by building code.
2. Lighting for the purpose of illuminating a building facade shall be
prohibited when such lighting is mounted to the ground or poles, or is mounted on
adjoining/adjacent structures.
3. Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing
intensity, and changing color lights and internally illuminated signs shall be prohibited,
except for temporary holiday displays, lighting for public safety or traffic control, or
lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
4. Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting shall be prohibited due
to their poor color rendering qualities.
5. Linear lighting (including but not limited to neon and fluorescent lighting)
primarily intended as an architectural highlight to attract attention or used as a means of
identification or advertisement shall be prohibited.
6. Unshielded flood lights and timer controlled flood lights shall be
prohibited.
7. Lighting directed toward the Roaring Fork River or its tributaries.
8. No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with
the safe movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. The following is
prohibited:
a. Any fixed light not designed for roadway illumination that
produces direct light or glare that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor
vehicle.
b. Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic
control device except as authorized by State, Federal, or City government.
9. No beacon or search light shall be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
10.E Up -lighting is prohibited, except as otherwise provided for in this Section.
I C onconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this ordinance,
within thl le) year of the effective date of this ordinance, all outdoor lighting fixtures
that do not confrm oorequirements of this ordinance must be replaced with conforming
•
fixtures or existing fixtures must be retrofitted to comply. Violations shall be corrected
within 60 days of being cited. Until that time, all existing outdoor lighting fixtures that
do not already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
K. Review Standards.
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be twelve (12)
feet or less above grade in height. Special review by the Planning and Zoning
Commission may allow lighting of a greater height under the following
circumstances:
a. A fixture at a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for commercial parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a
maximum height of 20 feet above grade and shall be fully shielded, or
c. Lighting on above -grade decks or balconies, which shall be fully shielded.
2. Foot Candles. Outdoor Non -Residential (26.575.070) Sign (26.575.080),
and Residential 26.575.090 Lighting Standards shall not exceed the foot candles
( ) g g
designated in their respective sections. Special review by the Planning and Zoning
Commission may allow lighting of a greater intensity under the following
circumstances:
a. A fixture of a greater light intensity is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. An architectural or historical feature requires greater illumination, in which case
the light shall be fully shielded with a non adjustable mounting.
L. Procedures.
Administrative Review Procedures
Lighting plans submitted in conjunction with applications for subdivision,
planned unit development, development within any environmentally sensitive
area, or special review application shall be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
Lighting plans submitted as a part of a building permit application for a
commercial or multi -family structure shall be reviewed administratively by the
Community Development Director. The Director shall have the authority to refer
an application to the Planning and Zoning Commission or the Historic
Preservation Commission if deemed appropriate.
Appeals
Any appeals related to decisions regarding outdoor lighting shall be made to the
Board of Adjustment compliant with the procedures in the Appeals Section
26.316 of this Land Use Code.
Section 2:
Section 26.515.020, Characteristics of off-street parking spaces and access to
street or alley, is hereby amended with new text to read as follows:
26.515.020 Characteristics of off-street parking spaces and access to street or
alley.
G. Restrictions on lighting. Lighting facilities for off-street parking spaces, if
provided, shall be arranged and shielded so that lights neither unreasonably
disturb occupants of adjacent residential dwellings or interfere with driver vision
and shall be in compliance with the lighting ordinance in section 26.575.150.
Section 3
Section 26.435.040 Stream Margin Review Standards and Section 26.435.060
Hallam Lake Bluff review standards is hereby amended with new text to read as
follows:
26.435.040 Stream Margin Review Standards.
11. All exterior lighting is low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward
the river or located down the slope and shall be in compliance with the lighting
ordinance in section 26.575.150;
26.435.060 Hallam Lake Bluff review standards.
5. All exterior lighting shall be low and downcast with no light(s) directed
toward the nature preserve or located down the slope and shall be in compliance
with the lighting ordinance in section 26.575.150.
Section 4
Section Special Review 26.430.010 Purpose, is hereby amended with new text to
read as follows:
Special Review, 26.430.010 Purpose.
The purpose of special review is to ensure site specific review of certain
dimensional requirements, mitigation requirements, encroachments, lighting or
subdivision standards, which are specifically authorized to be altered or amended
by specific provisions of this Title in order to maintain the integrity of the city's
zone districts and the compatibility of the proposed development with
surrounding land uses.
Section 5•
This Ordinance shall not effect any existing litigation and shall not operate as an
abatement of any action or proceeding now pending under or by virtue of the
Ordinance repealed or amended as herein provided, and the same shall be
conducted and concluded under such prior ordinances.
Section 6•
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is
for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional in a court of competent
jurisdiction, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent
provision of and shall not effect the validity of the remaining portions of thereof.
Section 7•
That the City Clerk is directed, upon the adoption of this Ordinance, to record
among the real estate records of the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder a copy of
this Ordinance.
Section 8:
A public hearing on this Ordinance was held on the 22 day of November, 1999, at
5:00 in the City Council Chambers, Aspen City Hall, Aspen, Colorado, fifteen
days prior to which hearing a public notice of the same was published in a
newspaper of general circulation within the City of Aspen.
INTRODUCED, READ AND ORDERED PUBLISHED as provided by law by the
City Council of the City of Aspen, Colorado this 25th day of October 1999.
Attest:
Kathryn S. Koch, City Clerk
Rachel E. Richards, Mayor
Finally Adopted, Passed and Approved this _ day of , 1999.
Attest:
Kathryn S. Koch, City Clerk
Approved as to form
John Worcester, City Attorney
G:/planning/aspen/ords/I ighting.doc
Rachel E. Richards, Mayor
0 0 Iff.t.
TO
THRU
FROM:
MEMORANDUM
Mayor and City Council
Amy Margerum, City Manager
John Worcester, City Attorney b
Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Directo
Joyce Ohlson, Deputy Director 1 V lk
Nick Lelack, Planne?�\�
RE: Moore Family PUD Amendment — School District Request to Change
Master Deed Restriction Agreement for Occupancy and Resale of the
Moore Family Project — Continue Second Reading/Public Hearing to
December 6, 1999
DATE: November 22, 1999
SUMMARY:
The Aspen School District, represented by Glenn Horn of Davis Horn. Inc.. has
requested a continuation to December 6, 1999 for the Second Reading%Public Hearing
on Ordinance 49. This Ordinance proposes changes to the "Master Deed Restriction
Agreement for Occupancy and Resale of the Moore Family Project"; these changes
are discussed in the attached Memorandum.
Community Development staff recommends continuing this application to
December 6, 1999.
PROPOSED MOTION:
"I move to continue the public hearing on Ordinance Number 49, Series of 1999.
to December 6, 1999."
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
EXHIBITS:
Exhibit A — Applicant's Request for Continuation
Clhome\Active Cases\ Moore PUD school district housingTouncil Memo continue.doc
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
THRU: Amy Margerum, City Manager
John Worcester, City Attorney
Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
Joyce Ohlson, Deputy Director%
FROM: Nick Lelack, PlannerKk
RE: Moore Family PUD Amendment — School District Request to Change
Master Deed Restriction Agreement for Occupancy and Resale of the
Moore Family Project — Second Reading/Public Hearing
DATE: November 22, 1999
SUMMARY:
The Aspen School District has applied for changes to the "Master Deed Restriction
Agreement for Occupancy and Resale of the Moore Family Project," which is part of
the Moore Family PUD. The School District is requesting four (4) housing policy
changes for the eight (8) units earmarked for them. Below is a brief description of
each request followed by the City Council's, Board of County Commissioners
(BOCC), and Housing Board's actions and issues raised.
Require an employee who works for the School District for less than 10 years and
who owns and occupies a "category unit" to sell the unit within one year after
terminating employment with the School District.
Actions:
Council: voted 4-1 to deny the request (Markalunas dissented) on First Reading.
BOCC: voted 3-0 to approve the request.
Housing Board: voted 4-0 to deny the request.
Issues raised in support of the request:
The Moore Family intended the units to be built for and used by the School
District, and the units will not be used as intended if an employee stops working
for the School District and retains the unit;
The units are in close proximity to the school, therefore minimizing travel to
work;
-4- School District employees are more essential to the community than other
employees;
.i The School Board is working on obtaining affordable housing units for District
employees; and
- Stephanie Millar, 02:44 PM 11/19/99, lighting
Date: Fri, 19 Nov 1999 14:44:27 -0700 (MST)
X-Sender: stephani@comdev
To: Julie Ann Woods <juliew@ci.aspen.co.us>
From: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: lighting
Cc: ellens@ci.aspen.co.us, joannas@ci.aspen.co.us
I"l �r.� w •c.�"7''�i
Originally I had something in street lighting that said that they
would not
have to retrofit, but that new fixtures should comply and that as
fixtures C.-
were replaced due to normal wear and tear that those replacements r
should
comply. It just came to my attention that that got weeded out
somehow. We
don't really want to be in a situation where someone can say the City
and
Holy Cross have to replace all our fixtures at once so you may want to
suggest a remedy at the council meeting on Monday. I think the County
has
the same problem.
Sorry I didn't catch this sooner. I didn't notice it was gone until I
chatted with a guy from Holy Cross.
existing language....
G. Street Lighting Standards. All new lighting illuminating
�ublic
right-of-ways and easements or private streets shall conform with the
following standards:
(a) Street Light fixtures shall be approved jointly by the
Community
Development and Electric Department Directors and shall comply with
the
guidelines of this ordinance.
�1. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit
of
public health, safety, and welfare including but not limited to
traffic
control devices, existing street lights, and construction lighting.
J. Nonconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this
ordinance, within one (1) year of the effective date of this
ordinance, all
(Printed for Julie Ann Woods <juliew@ci.aspen.co.us> 1
Stephanie Millar, 02:44 PM 11/19/99, lighting
outdoor lighting fixtures that do not conform to requirements of this
ordinance must be replaced with conforming fixtures or existing
fixtures
must be retrofitted to comply. Violations shall be corrected within
60 days
of being cited. Until that time, all existing outdoor lighting
fixtures
that do not already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming
fixtures.
iPrinted for Julie Ann Woods <juliew@ci.aspen.co.us> 2
Iesna@aol.com, 09:13 AM 9/9/99 E, Re: lighting fixtures
From: Iesna@aol.com
Date: Thu, 9 Sep 1999 09:13:01 EDT
Subject: Re: lighting fixtures
To: stephani@ci.aspen.co.us
To: Stephanie
RP-8-83 Roadway Lighting probably will help you. Please contact Albert Suen,
Publications Department, at 212-248-5000, ext. 112 or e-mail to
asuen@iesna.org to order or you might want to request our free Light Source
Catalog which describes all of our publications.
Also, in case you didn't know, the 9th edition of the IESNA Lighting Handbook
is being offered at a pre -publication sales price of $199.00 for members.
This is a "must have" since Chapter 10, the Illuminance Selection Table has
been completely rewritten.
Thank you for you interest.
Sincerely,
Pamela Weess
Marketing Manager
,Printed for Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us> 1
Lighting Ordinance Presentation
The Community Development Department was asked to draft a lighting ordinance
to manage the level of light trespass being caused by exterior illumination. The
goal was to preserve a sense of small town character and the qualities associated
with this character, including the ability to view the stars against a dark sky.
Through research into what other communities have done to address the issue of
out door lighting it became clear that safe and efficient outdoor lighting could be
achieved even while lowering the overall level of light.
The draft Lighting Ordinance is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and
welfare of the residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor
lighting and light trespass.
Mitch Haas held a work session with the P&Z on April 20 of this year and
identified the issues the Commissioners wished to see addressed. At that time the
P&Z directed staff to utilize Basalt's recently adopted ordinance as a model and to
build upon that work to meet Aspen's needs.
Basalt's ordinance was used as a model and was augmented by the experiences of
several other jurisdictions as well as by the comments made by several City of
Aspen departments and a professional lighting consultant.
The Draft Ordinance specifically addresses Residential Lighting Standards and
Non -Residential Lighting Standards, and to some extent street lamps. Holiday
lighting and historic fixtures are dealt with in the exemptions section of the draft
ordinance.
Lighting plans are required for subdivision, PUD, Special Review,
environmentally sensitive area, and commercial or multi -family building
applications. No lighting plans are required for single family residential but they
are expected to comply. Enforcement will be carried out on a complaint only basis
and existing lighting will be considering legal non -conforming for three years
from the data this ordinance is adopted.
The resolution in your packets also recommends minor changes to the Stream
Margin Review and Off Street Parking sections of the code to ensure that they
reference the lighting section of the code.
Issues related to sign lighting are adequately dealt with in the recently revised Sign
Standards.
Staff proposes one change from the Draft Ordinance you see in order- to provide
greater clarification of intention in the code. (see memo)
Unfortunately we don't have a lot of time tonight so I would like to return the
discussion back over to the commissioners at this time for your questions and
comments.
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting •
• http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.htmi
Good Neighbor
Outdoor Lighting
A GUIDE TO SELECTING AND INSTALLING EFFICIENT,
COST-EFFECTIVE,
AND UNOBTRUSIVE OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES
Compiled by the
New England Light Pollution Advisory Group (NELPAG)
and the International Dark -Sky Association
May 1995
Why is there outdoor lighting?
Outdoor lighting is used to illuminate roadways, parking lots, yards, sidewalks, public meeting areas,
signs, work sites, and buildings. It provides us with better visibility and a sense of security.
• When well -designed and properly installed, outdoor lighting can be and is very useful in improving
visibility and safety and a sense of security, while at the same time minimizing energy use and
operating costs.
Why should we be concerned?
If outdoor lighting is not well -designed and properly installed, it can be costly, inefficient, glary, and
harmful to the nighttime environment. These are the issues:
• Glare: Poorly -designed or poorly installed lighting can cause a great deal of glare that can severely
hamper the vision of pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, creating a hazard rather than increasing
safety. Glare occurs when you can see light directly from the fixture (or bulb).
• Light Trespass: Poor outdoor lighting shines onto neighborhood properties and into bedroom
windows, reducing privacy, hindering sleep, and creating an unattractive look to the area.
• Energy Waste: Much of our outdoor lighting wastes energy because it is not well -designed. This
waste results in high operating costs and increased environmental pollution from the extra power
generation needs. We waste over a billion dollars a year in the United States alone lighting up the
1 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting • • http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
sky at night.
• Sky Glow: A large fraction of poor lighting shines directly upwards, creating the adverse sky glow
above our cities that washes our view of the dark night sky, taking away an important natural
resource. In addition to the cost savings, less sky glow will allow future generations to enjoy the
beauty of the stars, and children will be inspired to learn and perhaps to enter fields of science.
What is Good Lighting?
Good lighting does its intended job well and with minimum adverse impact to the environment. Good
lighting has four distinct characteristics:
1. It provides adequate light for the intended task, but never over -lights.
Specifying sufficient light for a job is sometimes hard to do on paper. Remember that a full moon
can make an area seem quite bright. Some modern lighting systems illuminate areas to a level 100
times as bright as does the full moon! Brighter is not always better, so try to choose lights that will
meet your needs without illuminating the neighborhood. If you can't decide what to do, consulting a
good lighting designer is usually your best bet.
2. It uses "fully -shielded" lighting fixtures, fixtures that control the light output in order to keep
the light in the intended area.
Such fixtures have minimum glare from the light -producing source. "Fully -shielded" means that no
light is emitted above the horizontal. (High -angle light output from ill -designed fixtures is mostly
wasted, doing no good in lighting the ground, but still capable of causing a great deal of glare. Of
course, all the light going directly up is totally wasted.)
Fully -shielded light fixtures are more effective and actually increase safety, since they have very
little glare. Glare can dazzle and considerably reduce the effectiveness of the emitted light.
3. It has the lighting fixtures carefully installed to maximize their effectiveness on the targeted
property and minimize their adverse impact beyond the property borders.
Positioning of fixtures is very important. Even well -shielded fixtures placed on tall poles at a
property boundary can cast a lot of light onto neighboring properties. This "light trespass" greatly
reduces and invades privacy, and is difficulty to resolve after the installation is complete.
Fixtures should be positioned to give adequate uniformity of the illuminated area. A few bright
fixtures (or ones that are too low to the ground) can often create bright "hot spots" that make the
less -lit areas in-between seem dark. This can create a safety problem. When lighting signs, position
the lights above and in front of the sign, and keep the light restricted to the sign area; overlit signs
are actually harder to read. Buildings ought to be similarly lit in a way to offer an attractive, safe
environment without overkill.
4. It uses fixtures with high -efficiency lamps, while still considering the color and quality as
essential design criteria.
High -efficiency lamps used for lighting not only save energy - which is good for a cleaner
environment - but reduce operating costs. Most high -efficiency lamps last a long time, reducing
costly maintenance. Highly -efficient fixtures usually cost more initially, but the payback time is
very short, and such fixtures will save you lots of money in a short time.
Balancing against high -efficiency, though, is the quality of the light emitted. In some applications,
the yellow light cast by low-pressure (LPS) or high-pressure (HPS) sodium lamps may not be as
desirable as a less -efficient, but much whiter, compact -fluorescent, metal -halide, or even
2 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting • • http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.htmi
incandescent light source. In other applications, color is not of importance, and LPS or HPS lamps
do a very good job at very low cost. Well -designed shielded lights can usually be lower in wattage,
saving even more energy and money. They will actually light an area better than unshielded lights
of higher output, because they make use of all the light rather than wasting some (or much) of it.
Why are these characteristics so important? How do they factor into a design?
Good lighting means that we save energy and money, and we avoid hassles. A quality lighting job
makes a "good neighbor." And we have a safer and more secure nighttime environment.
Always remember that lighting should benefit people. Controlled, effective, efficient lighting at a home
or business will enhance the beauty, while providing visibility, safety, and security. Poorly -installed,
bright lighting is offensive and gives a very poor image.
EXAMPLES OF SOME
COMMON LIGHTING
FIXTURES
POOR
GOOD
Ground -mounted
Top -mounted
Billboard Floodbrhts
Billboard Floodlights
(care fully focus ad onto b ills oard)
✓
Fbststyle Lamp
(more than 1,800lumen)
Post -style Lamp
(lamp set in opaque top)
3 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting •
0 http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.htmi
EXAMPLES OF SOME
COMMON LIGHTING FIXTURES
POOR GOOD
Typical 'Wall Pack Typical 'S 'hoe B o k" (forward throw)
V/
Typical "Yard Light" Opaque Redactor (,hp im a.)
V/
A.. Flood Light Area Flood Lightwith Hood
MODIFYING EXISTING
FIXTURES
CHANGE -THIS --- 1,01,11IS
Pumh DOWNWARDS
FLOODLIGHT
C14ANGE THIS
TO THIS ... ✓
Install vrs OR
LA
WALLPACK
CHANGE THIS ...
TO 1111S.- 00'
TO T HIS ... '
YARD LIGHT
OPAQUE REFLECTOR
SHOEBOX
Some Thoughts on Cost: Money Talks!
There are many cheap lighting fixtures available from most discount warehouse stores and from
electrical suppliers. Are these good deals?
4 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting • • http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.htrnl
• Most cheap fixtures have poor control of the light output, and they produce a lot of glare. It usually
takes better and more -costly internal reflectors to get light out without glare and to give better light
distribution. Modifying installed fixtures to reduce glare, or installing more fixtures to better
coverage can be expensive.
• Cheap fixtures often have inefficient lamps and short lamp life, so they use far more energy than
needed. Paying for more electricity than needed is expensive, as is the higher maintenance costs of
these so-called "cheap" fixtures.
Some cost comparisons
5 YEAR OPERATING
COST
_
PIRTQRE COST
TO
O
707AL
$432
I
TOTAL
$260
SAVED
$310
aG
TOTAL
4
S
a
a $540
o
$307
0
A
$422 SAVED
A
$210
$115
TOTAL
45
i10
300 WATT QUARTZ 28 WATT COIDACT
175 WATT IdFRCURY
70 WATr HIGH PRES_
HALOGEN FLUORESCENT
VAPOR
SODIUM CUT-OFF
FLOODLIGHT FLOODLIGHT
SECURITY LIGHT
SECURITY LIGHT
SIGN LIGHT
AREA LIGHT
Some Basic Considerations
• Always remember that lighting should benefit people. Controlled, effective, efficient lighting at
your home or business will enhance the surroundings and give a sense of safety and security.
People don't appreciate poorly -installed, overly -bright lighting.
• Check your site at night before installing lighting and note the existing light levels. If the area has
low levels of lighting, then modest levels of light will work well for you and will fit more
hospitably in the neighborhood.
• Try to keep the lighting uniform and reduce glare as much as possible. Lights that make bright "hot
spots" and ones that have glare make it hard to see well - especially for older people.
• Be aware that light fixtures can have different lighting patterns. (Some patterns are long and narrow
light cones, while others are more symmetrical.) Some fixtures have internal adjustments that can
change the lighting pattern to a modest extent. Pick the right pattern for your job.
• Consider using lights that turn on by motion detection. Not only will you reap big savings in
operating costs, but you will have a far more effective security light due to its "instant -on"
characteristics. Note that these lights can also be turned on manually. These light fixtures are not
expensive, and they use very little energy. Higher -priced motion -detection units will prove more
reliable.
5 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting • http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
Manufacturers and Suppliers
A Selection of Manufacturers and Suppliers of Good Lighting Equipment
• Any lamp - no matter how faint - can be annoying in certain circumstances, so it is encouraged that
all outdoor lights be fully shielded. However, with fixtures that use dazzling lamps (typically all
HPS, mercury vapor, and metal -halide lamps, and clear incandescent lamps of 150 watts or
greater), the requirement for shielding is imperative. Here is a list of some good lighting fixtures,
with manufacturers or suppliers names, product numbers, and addresses (with telephone numbers in
parentheses).
Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all good lighting fixtures; these are a sample of
those fixtures that have come to the attention of NELPAG as of the winter of 1995. As other quality
fixtures are brought to our attention, they will be included in future updates. Please do give us your
suggestions.
ABOLITE: 10000 Alliance Road; Cincinnati, OH 45242 (513-793-8875)
GENLYTE P.O. Box 129; Union, NJ 07083 (908-964-7000)
GENERAL ELECTRIC: Hendersonville, NC 28739 (800-626-2000)
GUTH LIGHTING: 2615 Washington Blvd.; St. Louis, MO 63103 (314-533-3200)
HADCO: P.O. Box 128; Littlestown, PA 17340 (717-359-7131)
HUBBELL LIGHTING: 2000 Electric Way; Christiansburg, VA 24073 (703-382-6111)
KIM LIGHTING: P.O. Box 1275; City of Industry, CA 91749 (818-968-5666)
LUMINAIRE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.: 212 West Main St.; Gibsonville, NC 27249
(910-449-6310)
THOMAS & BETTS LIGHTING DIV.: 1555 Lynnfield Rd.; Memphis, TN 38119
(901-682-7766)
THOMAS OUTDOOR LIGHTING (formerly McPhilben Outdoor Lighting): 2661 Alvarado
St.; San Leandro, CA
PEMCO LIGHTING PRODUCTS: 150 Pemco Way; Wilmington, DE 19804 (302-892-9003)
RUUD LIGHTING: 9201 Washington Ave.; Racine, WI 53406 (414-886-1900)
SPERO LIGHTING: 1705 Noble Rd.; Cleveland, OH 44112 (216-851-3300)
STONCO: P.O. Box 129; Union, NJ 07605 (908-964-7000)
VOIGHT LIGHTING: 135 Fort Lee Rd.; Leonia, NJ 07605 (201-461-2493)
WESTERFIELD: 770 Gateway Center Dr.; San Diego, CA 92102 (619-263-6672)
In the diagrams, the following abbreviations are used: INC = incandescent; HPS =
high-pressure sodium; CF = compact fluorescent; MH = metal -halide; MV = mercury vapor
6 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting 0
0 http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
-rican Electric Lighting
cage "C" (Cutoff)
S, MV)
Cost
or
KIM LIGHTING
Series SAR
(HPS, MH, MV)
High Cost
rhmuu RUDD LIGHTING
Model 8908X-211-CO PR Series
(HPS, MH, CF, INC) (HPS, MH, CF, INC)
Medium Cost Medium Cost
STONCO
Series RLM3000 &
(HPS, MH)
Medium Cost
Adel NPU-BI
TE-TO-LITEtm
PS, MV)
w Cost
7 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting •
• http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
SUNDOWNER Series B1870
(CF, HPS, MV)
Medium Cost
McPHILBEN OUTDOOR
Series 101 & 102
(HPS, MH)
High Cost
GMATIC Series 221 &
;, MH, MV, CF, INC)
to Medium Cost
LIGHTING
s WD14D
, MH)
Cost
M-W,o 49b"I
8 Series
IPS, MH)
ow Cost
OST:
)W COST: under $100
EDIUM COST: $100 - $
GH COST: over $200
8 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting 0
• http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
A13ULl l h HADCO
Series RLM model DWB-1 Series HF4000 with MGS-3H shield
(INC) (HPS, MV)
Low Cost Medium Cost
HUBBELL LIGHTING
Series 308 bullet with 309-S s
(INC)
Low Cost
r W I
iWWWA
6h
Model 705 reflectorl
(INC)
Low Cost
Uf
STONCO W E 11 KP IELU
Series 940 with 9455E shield Series 500 with Glare shield
(INC) (CF)
Low Cost Low Cost
9 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting •
• http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
ROADWAY LIGHTING
GENERAL ELECTRIC
Model M-250R2 with CUTOFF OPTICS
CROUSE HINDS
(HPS, MV)
Model RAL Series
Medium Cost
(HPS, MV)
Medium Cost
1
PEM O LIGHTING
HUBBELL LIGHTING
Model Admiral Hat
Model RMC series
(HPS, MH, CF, INC)
(HPS, MH)
Medium Cost
Medium Cost
TH MAS & BETTS
American Electric Lighting
Roadway Cutoff Series 113 & 125
(HPS, MH, MV)
Medium Cost
SECURITY LIGHT
ILUMINAIRE TECHNOLOGIES
IFits on all NEMA Head L
Low Cost
7odel NPU-BI
[ITE-TO-LITEtm SKYCAP
'utoff Optics
its on all NEMA Head Lum
Please see http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/cta/ps/nelpag/gnol.litnil for updates to the list of good
fixtures.
This pamphlet was produced by the New England Light Pollution Advisory Group (NELPAG), a
volunteer organization established in 1993 to address outdoor -lighting issues locally in the
10 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting . • http://www.darksky.org/ida/gnol.html
• northeastern United States. The chief architect of this pamphlet is Peter Talmage, an engineer
residing in Kennebunkport, Maine. Numerous revisions have occurred in the past year, with the
main editing by Talmage, Daniel Green, David Crawford, Steve O'Meara, and Joy Hoskins.
The NELPAG produces a Circular at irregular intervals, available either via postal mail - by
sending self-addressed, stamped envelopes to Daniel Green (M.S. 18, Smithsonian Observatory, 60
Garden St. Cambridge, MA 02138) - or via computer e-mail (send your full name, postal address,
and e-mail address to: NELPAG-REQUEST@harvee.billerica.ma.us via Internet). The NELPAG
also meets occasionally in various locations in New England to discuss local lighting issues.
The NELPAG (http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/cfa/ps/nelpag.html) supports the International
Dark -Sky Association (http://www.darksky.org) and recommends that all individuals/groups who
are interested in the problems of light pollution and obtrusive lighting should subscribe to the IDA
Newsletter (IDA membership costs $30.00 per year; send check to International Dark -Sky
Association, 3225 N. First Ave., Tucson, AZ 85719). IDA also issues useful "Information Sheets"
and slide sets for use in educational presentations.
11 of 11 9/10/99 1:15 PM
r • 0
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 28, 1999
Steve Buettow, Acting -Chairperson, opened the special Aspen Planning and
Zoning Commission Meeting at 4:05 p.m. The following commissioners were
present: Steve Buettow, Ron Erickson, Tim Mooney, Roger Haneman and Jasmine
Tygre. Bob Blaich and Roger Hunt were excused. Staff in attendance were: Joyce
Ohlson, and Stephanie Millar, Community Development; Jackie Lothian, Deputy
City Clerk.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Joyce Ohlson, Community Development Deputy Director, noted that next week
P&Z would be meeting with City Council to address any issues or ideas to talk
with council about. Ordinance 30 and ADU issues were to be addressed. The
Housing Authority issues were questioned because Council and BOCC were
represented on the housing board but not on the P&Z or HPC. There was a
question of the role of P&Z in housing issues.
Tim Mooney said that the metro area included areas that City P&Z could not vote
upon but yet it affected the city. Ron Erickson said the AACP restricted growth
but how would the employee housing be brought into line with all of the affordable
housing. Mooney said that Bob Blaich had a memo with issues to discuss with
council. Mooney asked to have city and county ordinances compliment one
another.
DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
None
PUBLIC HEARING:
LIGHTING ORDINANCE
Steve Buettow opened the public hearing. Stephanie Millar stated that Community
Development was asked to draft a lighting ordinance to manage the level of light
trespass caused by exterior illumination. The goal was to preserve the small town
character and feel and one of the components was the ability to see stars on the
dark sky. Millar said that through research from what other communities have
done to address this problem, the light level could be lower than what was
currently allowed in Aspen. The draft lighting ordinance was intended to maintain
health, safety and welfare of the residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior
lighting to help preserve small town character; eliminate escalation of nighttime
light pollution; reduce glaring and offensive light sources; provide clear guidance
to builders and developers; encourage the use of improved technologies for
lighting; conserve energy; and prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or
1
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 28, 1999
installed outdoor lighting and light trespass. Millar said that Mitch Haas held
several work sessions and P&Z recommended that staff utilize Basalt's recent
lighting ordinance to phase work with various city departments. Other
jurisdictions were also reviewed as well as a lighting consultant.
Millar said that holiday lighting and historic fixtures were dealt with in the
exemption sections of the draft. Lighting plans were only required for
subdivisions, PUDs, special review, environmentally sensitive areas and
commercial or multi -family building applications. Enforcement will be carried out
on a complaint only basis, as it was with all other zoning issues. Existing lighting
will be considered legal non -conforming for 3 years, after that time they will be
expected to comply bringing up to date but only if someone calls to report a
problem.
Millar noted that Stream Margin Review and all street parking sections of the code
had some minor changes to ensure that the lighting sections of the code were
referenced. She said that sign lighting were addressed in the new sign ordinance.
She said that she was surprised that there were no members of the public in the
audience.
Ron Erickson stated that 3 years was a long time for anyone to come into
compliance especially when no one would come into compliance unless there was
a complaint. Buettow noted that a year would be long enough. Erickson said that
6 months was long enough and if there was a complaint, then extend it for 30 to 60
days. Millar responded that Basalt's was 5 years and communities range between
2 years to 40 years on an amortization period.
Tim Mooney said that exemptions of holiday lights could remain up from
Thanksgiving to March I'`. He asked if that time period was really necessary.
Millar replied that with inclement weather. Mooney asked if the lights could at
least be turned off on January 15`h. Erickson agreed. Erickson asked why the
gazebo needed to be illuminated in March. Joyce Ohlson asked for clarification on
the types of lights. Millar answered that this ordinance applied to commercial and
residential lighting. She asked if there were any more issues.
Roger Haneman stated that there were 3 different standards used for measuring
light; lumens, foot-candles, and watts; he asked if there was any reason why one
couldn't be used. Millar responded that she would check with the consultant to
tighten up the language. Erickson asked for the definition of what scintillating
lights were. Millar replied those were lights that moved erratically.
FA
• .
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 28, 1999
George Detko, public, said that he moved here from Florida about 5 years ago and
was involved in the lighting ordinance in Vero Beach. He stated that there was a
great interference with sea turtles from ocean front lighting. Detko said that it was
with great difficulty that the ordinance passed because people felt it was their right
to light up anything and everything because they paid $2,000,000.00 for their
property. He noted that he now runs down Rio Grande Trail at night and the
houses along the Roaring Fork River were purposefully doing the same thing,
lighting up the river. He asked how this ordinance would address these large
houses along the river. Erickson noted the ordinance said that lighting directed
towards the Roaring Fork River or its tributaries was prohibited. Ohlson replied
that was one of the reasons for initiating this; it was to minimize the lighting of the
river, environmentally sensitive areas, which were included in the stream margin
review process.
Buettow stated that he asked Sarah Oates to look into the one yard with the lights
down by Slaughterhouse Bridge at the mile and %4 mark on the Rio Grande Trail.
Detko noted lights like those also kill your night vision for probably 15 minutes
after you pass by them. He said that in Florida the ordinance was drafted to read
that direct lighting couldn't be visible from the mean high water line at sand level.
Millar responded that it was those types of lighting that this ordinance attempted to
address. The light that hampers vision, the light spread, light being contained by
the property lines, glare and visibility of light bulbs. Detko commented that inside
lighting was also addressed because of the huge expanses of glass and prohibition
of flood lighting outside. Detko said it was the 3`d house to the west on the north
side of the river from the Oklahoma Flats Bridge that had the lighting from the
inside which lights up the river. It was noted that it was the Gary Moore House.
Buettow asked if these comments could be incorporated into this ordinance prior to
the council presentation. Millar stated the 3 issues to be included were: OO change
the compliance period from 3 years to 6 months or a year; OO reduce the holiday
lighting period to November 15`h to January 15th; ® Simplify the levels of
measurement. Erickson stated that equally important was the time period of 30 to
60 days for having to come into compliance after a compliant was registered.
Mooney requested that some sort of communication with the county begin to
address lights that affect the city. He mentioned that the lights at Ruthie's
Restaurant and at Buttermilk have been on for about 4 weeks, even though those
properties were located in the county they affected the city.
0 •
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 28, 1999
MOTION: Tim Mooney moved to recommend City Council approve
the lighting Ordinance, finding it met the criteria with the changes
reflected in P&Z Resolution #99-24. Ron Erickson second. Roll call
vote: Tygre, yes; Haneman, yes; Mooney, yes; Erickson, yes; Buettow,
yes. APPROVED 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m. into a work session with County P&Z on
Buttermilk.
ZZ;t Yackie Lothian, eputy City Clerk.
4
12.00 INSTALL STREET LIGHT (BASE, POLE, & FIXTURE)
12.01 Scope Work to be performed under this section shall include furnishing all
materials, labor and tools necessary to install street light (base, pole, & fixture),
including electric conduit with base. The finished product shall be in close
conformity with the lines, grades, thickness, and typical cross sections shown on the
Drawings.
12.02 Specifications ` &
Holophane street light; Hallbrook Series; Color: factory green; Single arm /
aluminum post with ornamental base as shown on sheet 18 of the Drawings; 15'
high; G1asWerks Bern Series with 4175; 70 watt metal halide fixture with
eliminating angle deflection of minimum 180°, and preferably at least 240' or best
270°. Custom made. Photocell.
Ordering information:
Catalog Number - Pole: HLBK15AIN-DBN; Fixture: BN07DMH12N75-PR
Houseside shield: 180'
12.03 Submittals:
A. Manufacturer's invoice.
12.04 Measurement and Payment - Installation of street light (base, pole, & fixture) shall
be measured and paid for per each.
13.00 CONCRETE STRUCTURES - FLATWORK, CURB & GUTTER, UTILITY
STRUCTURES
13.01 Scope Work to be performed under this section shall include furnishing all
materials, labor and tools necessary to install cast -in -place and flatwork concrete,
together with all miscellaneous and appurtenant items, on a prepared surface in
accordance with the Specifications or as shown on the Drawings. Unit bid price for
this work item shall include material testing by an independent certified laboratory,
and protection of concrete during its curing period until a minimum of 80% of its
required structural strength is achieved. The curing strength must be determined by
the compression test reports prepared by a certified materials Lab. The finished
product shall be in close conformity with the lines, grades, thickness, and typical
cross sections shown on the Drawings.
13.02 Reference Standards
Hallbrook series
Single Arm Steel Post
22" Dia. Base
UNIQUE SOLUTIONS ORDER NO:
— 'HIS ORAWING WHEN APPROVED SHALL BECOME THE COMPLETE SPEC:FICATICN FOR
HE MATERIAL TO BE FURNISHED BY UNICUE SOLUTIONS ON THE ORCER NOTED ABOVE
UNIT OF SIMILAR DESIGN MAY SE SUPPLIED, BUT ONLY AFTER APPROVAL 3Y THE
CUSTOMER iN WRITING. ON POLF ORDERS AN ANCHOR BCLT TEMPtAT'- PRINT'MLL BE
SUPPLIED WITH EACH ANCHOR BOLT ORDER TO MATCH POLE PROVIDED
THISPRINT IS THE PROPERTY OF UNIQUE SOLUTIONS AND IS LC I NED SUBJECT TO
RETURN UPCN DEMAND AND UPCN EXPRESS CONOmON THAT IT WILLNOT 3E USED
DIRECTLY CR iNOIRECTLY IN ANY WAY O��AIMGNTAL TO CUR INTERESTS. AND ONLY
IN CONNECTION wrrH MATERIAL FURNISHED BY UP41CUE SOLUTIONS.
Specifications
OESCRIPTICN
his c cntemperary=urcPean style ighting past shal
be steel _ons:ruc:icn, with a one =Iecs shaft and
Iongltucinal weld, a slr.^yie pis -cos .rack .-rcuntinc
bracket. and a slerrcer sweeping decorative
ctar-s-e:l base.
MATERIALS
-he past shaft shall ce 11 CA Gail stecx..veidaeie
grade hot rcilec commercial ;uality carcen s;eel.
with a-ninimum yield strength of �6,J00 231 aRer
facnc3non. The anc^er base shall be strt:c:urai
quality nct rciiad yamcn steei -late %vith a nttntmum
yield strength of 36.2CC BSI. ne bass plate
teiesceces ,he s^aft and is c:rc;imferen,tativ weicec
tap and cottcm. The arcacr `;clts are ;not diccec
galvanized. The bracket arm :s '-1/2" schedule SC
pipe anc is ,hreaded 1-t!= NP- fcr :uminaire
mounting. The c:omsnell zasc a sand cast _f -NI!id
copeer Tee aluminum ailcv.
CIME'ISiCNS l?
-he pole shall 'ce X'-XX" in:-ieight with a 'IQ" square
case?.
ase .fate. The Jeccranve cams .eil ease :s 22" in
diameter and -IS- tall. 7)e shaft shall have a tcc
aiameter of 3?8" and a unifcrm facer -of C.14" per
feat cf'ength. The clshocs ucck crac.Xet arm shall
rise 43" above :he pcie :cc and fart a 30" diameter
arc frcm the center of the vert;cal portion of the arm
to the 'uminaire mount cantenne. The luminaire
mounting end of the bracket arm shall be 21" above
the taD of the post.
WIRING ACCESS
The past is Provided with a 2.5" by 4.8" rectangular
curved `land hole and cover. A 1/2-13UNC Pcit and
nut are provided for grounding.
FINISH
The post shall have a prime scat of urethare
polyester powder anc a top scat of aliphatic acylic
polyurethane. Colors availacie are blaclx (S), bronze
(Z,, dark green (N), and custcm color (A).
I NSTA LLATI C N
The cost shall be provided with four 3/4" diameter
by 17" Icng L-type archor bclts to be installed an a
9.0" diameter bolt &c!e.
HL3x9TP'-ZwC
TYPE: DRAWING NO: US-1294
MUNIQUE�jq-3Ncj-Hl3o
SOLUTIONTq SCALE: NONE
INt40VATIVE LrrnNc PRCOLC7s DRiAWN: RAF
A CIVISICN CF,4CLCP4ANE APPD:
515 MCKINLEY AVENUE
P.O. 9CX 3009 DATE: 10-25-94
NEWARK. CHIC 43055
HOLOPHANE GlasWerks
House Side 3nield
4172, 4173 & 4175
Glass Refractor
i
'Bern' example of the refractor
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose. To instruct how to assemble and install the House
Side Shield.
Sources of additional information are provided in Paragraph 1.3.
Paragraph 2 contains assembly and installation procedures for
House Side Shield.
WARNING
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO INSTALL OR MAINTAIN THIS
FIXTURE. WORK MUST BE DONE BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL. IMPROPER INSTALLATION OR
MAINTENANCE MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH
OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE.
1.3 Alternate Information Sources. If additional questions
ansa relative to the GlasWerks luminaires that this document or your
supplier cannot answer, please refer them to:
Holophane Company Inc.
Field Service Department
P.O. Box 3004
Newark, OH 43055
(614) 345-9631
2. ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION OF GLASWERKS
HOUSE SIDE SHIELD 417X GLASS REFRACTOR.
2.1 Tools and Material Required: The following tools and
materials are required during installation of the House Side Shield.
Descriotion Use
Flat head screw driver Shield Assembly
Door/optical Assembly
1/8" hex driver To tighten set screw at threaded
top mounting screws.
Instruction Manual - IM-145 Reference material
(that came with unit)
2.2 Assembly and Installation of House Side Shield
Components for the GlasWerks House Side Shield are contained in
this box. Examine all contents in the box before starting.
Instruction Sheet
WARNING
BE CERTAIN THAT ALL FLECTRICAL POWER IS
DISCONNECTED FROM THE FIXTURE AND POLE
BEFORE INSTALLING OR MAINTAINING THE FIXTURE.
FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR
DEATH.
2.2.1 Take (1) perforated shield, (2) aluminum "L" clips, (4) sheet
metal screws and (3) self tapping screws out of the box.
2.2.2 -First, align one aluminum "L" clip with the outside/top of the
shield, so that the two holes on the clip line up with the two outer
sets of holes on the shield. NOTE: Proper alignment of the clip will
make the large flat surface of the that clip level with the top of the
shield.
2.2.3 Using the flat head screw driver, slowly attach (2) sheet
metal screws running the screw through the shield (on the inside)
to the holes in the clip.
2.2.4 Repeat steps 2.2.2 & 2.2.3 and attach other aluminum-"L" clip
to the shield.
2.2.5 (Figure 2 of IM-145) On the luminaire, loosen the (3) screws
on the door/optical assembly, so that you can take the door/optical
assembly off. Remove screw on the inside of the unit that is
holding on the safety cable.
2.2.6 With the doorloptical assembly removed. Begin removing the
(2) screws and clips, that are 11 1/2" apart, which hold the glass
refractor in place.
2.2.7 (Asymmetric glass only Loosen the remaining screw.
Move or spin the glass around the ring so that the arrows in the
bottom of the glass are pointing to either side of the remaining
screw and clip. This will orient the glass in the ring so the shield
will be blocking out the light going to the house side.
2.2.8 Now take assembled house side shield and place it on the
inside of glass refractor. Align the clip holes up with the two holes
on the ring (from 2.2.6) and place the clips that were on the unit
from 2.2.6 under the "L" clip. Secure the shield with the (2) new
screws. Hand tighten, do not over tighten.
2.2.9 (Asymmetric glass only Remove remaining screw. Use (1)
new screw and old clips and re -secure. Hand tighten, do not over
tighten.
2.2.10 After House Side Shield is in place, refasten the safety
cable and return door/optical assembly, with shield in it, to the
luminaire. Twist and lock into place and retightened the (3) mounting
screws.
2.2.11 (Asymmetric glass only Once the doo-!optical assembly is
in place you need to adjust the unit to the "STREET SIDE". Loosen
the set screw on the top of the unit. Rotate the unit until "STREET
SIDE" of luminaire is pointed in the proper direction. The optical
pattern is indicated (with arrows) on the refractor.
2.2.12 (Asymmetric glass only) Once the fixture has been
oriented, tighten the set screw at the top entry (about 40 in. lbs.)
2.2.13 Electrically energize the fixture and check for proper
PAGE 1 OF 2 IN-95-A
i
HOLOPHANE Tear Drop Series Instruction Sheet
House Side Shield
4172, 4173 & 4175
Glass Refractor
'Port Huron' example of the refractor
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose. To instruct how to assemble and install the House
Side Shield.
• Sources of additional information are provided in Paragraph 1.3.
• Paragraph 2 contains assembly and installation procedures -for
House Side Shield.
WARNING
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO INSTALL OR MAINTAIN THIS
FIXTURE. WORK MUST BE DONE BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL. IMPROPER INSTALLATION OR
MAINTENANCE MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATF
OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE.
1.3 Alternate Information Sources. If additional ques-
tions anse relative to the Tear Drop Series luminaires that this
document or your supplier cannot answer, please refer them to:
Holophane Company Inc.
Field Service Department
P.O. Box 3004
Newark, OH 43055
(614) 345-9631
2. ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION OF TEAR DROP
SERIES HOUSE SIDE SHIELD 417X GLASS
REFRACTOR.
2.1 Tools and Material Required: The following tools and
materials are required during installation of the House Side Shield.
Description Use
Flat head screw driver Shield Assembly
Door/optical Assembly
Instruction Manual - IM-166-C Reference material
(that came with unit)
2.2 Assembly and Installation of House Side
Shield
Components for the Tear Drop Series House Side Shield are
contained in this box. Examine all contents in the box before
starting.
fr k I_,"; NI►Ce_
BE CERTAIN THAT ALL ELECTRICAL POWER IS
DISCONNECTED FROM THE FIXTURE AND POLE
BEFORE INSTALLING OR MAINTAINING THE
FIXTURE. FAILURE TO DO_ SO MAY RESULT IN
INJURY OR DEATH.
2.2.1 Take (1) perforated shield, (2) aluminum " L" clips, (4) sheet
metal screws.
2.2.2 First, align one aluminum "L" clip with the outside/top of the
shield, so that the two holes on the clip line up with the two inner
set of holes on the shield. NOTE: Proper alignment of the clip will
make the large flat surface ( part # side) of the that clip !evel with
the top of the shield. Also make sure that both the clips are using
the two most inner (set of) holes.
2.2.3 Using the flat head screw driver, slowly start (1) sheet
metal screws through the shield (on the inside) to the holes in the
clip (outside). Then slowly start the second sheet metal screws
through the shield into the clip, after it is started finish tightening
the screw the rest of the way, DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN. Then
finish tightening the first screw.
2.2.4 Repeat steps 2.2.2 & 2.2.3 and attach other aluminum " L"
clip to the shield.
2.2.5 If the bottom glass and door assembly has not been
removed from the luminaire, unlatch and remove, completely, from
the luminaire.
2.2.6 On the hinged side of the glass and door assembly,
remove the t2) screws closest to the hinge.
2.2.7 (Asymmetric glass only make sure the glass did not
rotate while working on the unit. The arrows in the bottom of the
refractor should be pointing and centered toward the latch side of
the door.
2.2.8 Take assembled hc•ise side shield and place it inside of
glass refractor. Align the clip holes with the two holes on the
door (from 2.2.6) and place the clips that were on the door from
2.2.6 under the "L" clip.
2.2.9 Secure the shield with the (2) screws removed in 2.2.6.
2.2.10 Now return the glass and door assembly to the luminaire.
Close and secure the glass and door assembly.
.2.2.11 Electrically energize the fixture and check for proper
operation.
IN-95-A
PAGE 2 OF 2
TO: Board of County Commissioners
November 3, 1999
THRU: Cindy Houben, Community Development Director 6114V�
FROM: Ellen Sassano, Senior Long Range Planner
Joanna Schaffner, Zoning Officer
RE: Land Use Code Amendment to Revise Pitkin County Lighting Standards
SUMMARY: This is the second reading of an Ordinance proposing amendments to
section 3-110-110 of the Land Use Code regarding Lighting standards. The proposed
Ordinance and amendment to the Code is attached as Exhibit "A" to this memorandum.
The Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing and first reading of the draft
Ordinance n November 27, 1999, at which time several recommendations were made for
revisions. A second reading was set for November 3, 1999.
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance as revised.
PROCEDURE: This is a public meeting. The revised Ordinance and proposed Code
amendment is being considered for adoption on second reading. The Ordinance will be
effective 30 days after adoption by the Board.
SUMMARY OF AMENDMENTS:
The following changes are included in the draft Ordinance to reflect Board direction at
first reading:
(for easy reference, changes made since first reading are highlighted in bold italics in
the draft Ordinance attached to this memorandum as Exhibit "A,)
Page 1, Paragraph B.: revised to preclude bulb visibility from "adjacent and
neighboring" rather than "adjoining" property
Page 3, Paragraph C,: revised to include "light trespass" definition
Page 4, Paragraph E,: revised to "prohibit illumination of waterways"
Paragraph F, : revised to preclude visibility of floodlighting from"adjacent and
neighboring" rather than "adjoining" property
Page 6, Paragraph M,: added to prohibit "blinking, flashing, etc. " lights
Paragraph N,: Revised subsection 1) to allow an exemption for community
and/or health/safety welfare benefits in general, rather than just for those benefits
relating to County business
•
Revised subsection 2) to distinguish between standards for holiday lighting for
residential and commercial uses countywide, and to specify standards for
Redstone
Added subsections 3) and 4) to exempt historic lighting fixtures and lighting for
temporary commercial uses and special events, respectively
Page 7, Paragraph P,: Added language allowing for a lighting plan requirement where
scenic quality policy or regulation issues are considered as part of a land use review
Paragraph Q,: Added language defining process for appeal
RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Commission and Staff recommend that the Board
adopt the following motion:
Approving the Ordinance on second reading adopting amendments to the Pitkin County
Land Use Code section 3-110-110 Lighting
2
±::�44 � IT
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO, ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO LAND USE
CODE SECTION 3-110-110 (LIGHTING STANDARDS)
ORDINANCE NO.99-
Recitals
1. The Board of County Commissioners directed staff to prepare a Land Use Code
amendment to revise and update Pitkin County lighting standards; to provide
simple, straight -forward direction for use by the public, staff, appointed and
elected officials.
2. The Pitkin County Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the proposed
amendment at a regular meeting on October 5, 1999, at which meeting the
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed
amendment.
3. At first reading and Public Hearing on October 27, 1999, the Board approved the
proposed revisions to the lighting standards.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Pitkin County Board of
County Commissioners that it hereby amends the Pitkin County Land Use Code
as follows:
Repeal and Re-enact Subsection 3-110-110 Lighting
(NOTE:
Language that is highlighted in bold italics was added at first
reading.)
A. Applicability: The lighting standards in this section are applicable to all
lighting.
B. Bulb Visibility All exterior lighting shall be designed so that the lig
(or- Uanspa;eat-shied} bulb (point light source) is knot directly visible from
adjacent -and neiuhhorad}eiaiag_properties or public rights -of -way. This can be
accomplished using fixtures which "fully shield" the bulb behind opaque shielding (i.e.,
the light distribution is primarily down and/or up directed) or which utilize non
transparent diffusion material (e.g. glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate) in the case of
fixtures with some sort of translucent lens(es) around the bulb compartment
Shielded lighting fixtures
Opaque translucent fixtures
•
OR -
Q LIGHT TRESPASS: Light trespass is defined as the shining of light produced by a
lightfixture beyond the boundaries of the Property on which it is located Light
level shall be no greater than one-half (0.5 ) of a foot-candle at the property line A
foot-candle is a measurable industry standard equivalent to one lumen (a measure of
light) per square foot. In support of this standard, no commercial property may
exceed •20 foot candles as measured three feet above grade (approximate waist
height).
D) UPLIGHTING: Uplighting is only permitted when used as follows:
1) To light a primary entrance, when the lighting fixture is wall mounted under
an architectural element (e.g., roofs over walkways entries or overhanging,
non -translucent eaves) and that this element contains the illumination, and
2) To light the American flag, when no more than two light fixtures per flag are
used, with a maximum of 150 watts each. The fixture must be shielded such
that the point source is not visible outside a 15' radius
E) HIGHLIGHTING: Illumination of building facades, driveways, and landscaping shall
be prohibited. Lighting intended to illuminate the Roaring Fork, F in'a Pan and
Crystal Rivers or their tributaries shall be prohibited.
F) FLOODLIGHTING: Floodlighting is only permitted when it is down -directed and
controlled by a motion sensor that is triggered by activity within the owner's property
lines, and when fully -shielded such that the light source is not visible from adjacent
and/or neighboring properties. Ground -mounted floodlighting of a structure is
prohibited.
G) SAFETY AND SECURITY LIGHTING: The use of motion sensors, photocells, or
photocell/timers to control duration of nighttime illumination is required for safety
and security lighting. In all cases, light intensity shall be between one (1) and two (2)
foot-candles
1) MOTION SENSORS: These mechanisms are the preferred method
for controlling nighttime illumination since they turn on lights only
when activated by motion and will remain on during the activity and
for a set period of time (typically up to 30 minutes) following the last
detection of motion. These are only permitted where the sensor is
triggered by activity within the owner's property lines.
2) PHOTOCELLS: These mechanisms illuminate a property for the
entire night (i.e., they are activated by sunlight, turning lights on at
dusk and off at dawn). They are only permitted under the following
conditions: a) at primary points of entrance (e.g., front entries) or in
critical common areas for commercial and multi -family properties; b)
where the light sources are fully -shielded by opaque material (i.e., the
fixture illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright); and c) the
light source is fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate excess
electricity consumption. N.B. For non-residential properties, HID
light sources (high pressure sodium and metal halide) may be used
instead of fluorescent.
TIMER/PHOTOCELL COMBINATIONS: These activate the light
source at dusk and turn it off at a selected time several hours later, well
before dawn. These are a preferred method when used for nighttime
control at primary points of entrance (e.g., front entries) and may be
used with fully shielded lighting fixtures with non -transparent
diffusion material (see Section `B.")
3) TIMERS: These mechanisms are prohibited.
H) PROPERTIES ADJACENT TO PUBLIC RIGHTS of WAY: In addition
to being in compliance with the above sections, no exterior lighting may
be used in any manner that could interfere with the safe movement of
•
motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. Specifically, the following is
prohibited:
1) Any light not designed for roadway illumination that produces direct
or reflected glare that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor
vehicle.
2) Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic control
device except as authorized by State, Federal, or County government
14—I)MERCURY VAPOR & LOW PRESSURE SODIUM SOURCES: These
light sources are prohibited from use.
K}I) NON-RESIDENTIAL FIXTURE HEIGHTS & TYPES: Fixture heights (as
measured from grade to the bottom face of a fixture) shall be ten (10) feet or less
in height, or the fixture must be fully shielded ("cutoff'), non-adjustable, and
down -directed (or building mounted and directed back at a facade). For the
following special use areas, the specified heights shall apply:
1) PUBLIC PARKING LOTS: Lights shall be between twelve (12) and
fifteen (15) feet high. Light intensity shall be between zero (0) and
one-half (0.5) foot-candle.
2) PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS: The preferred option is for low-level
"bollard" or pipe -mounted fixtures that are fully shielded and down -
directed and have a maximum of four (4) feet height and minimum
spacing of twenty-five (25) feet. If pole -mounted fixtures are desired,
ten (10) feet is the maximum height with a minimum spacing of fifty
(50 feet). Pole -mounted fixtures above 6' in height must be fully
shielded, non-adjustable, and down -directed. Lighting intensity shall
be between one tenth (0.1) foot-candle and one half (0.5) foot-candle
3) VEHICULAR INTERSECTIONS: Fixtures heights shall be between
twenty (20) and twenty-five (25) feet in height. Lighting shall be
between one-half (0.5) and one (1) foot-candle.
4) HIGH ACTIVITY PEDESTRIAN AREAS: Lighting shall be between
ten (10) and (12) feet in height. Lighting shall be between one-half
(0.5) and one (1) foot-candle.
Fully -shielded, "cutoff' pole fixture "Cutoff' light distribution
•
Fully -shielded, decorative fixture where bulb is concealed in top of fixture
KL) SIGNAGE: The following shall apply to sign illumination:
1) Internally -illuminated signs are prohibited.
2) Sign lighting will be down -directed and shielded from neighboring
property and the vision of passing motorists (see "H" above).
3) Total wattage shall not exceed 75 watts for incandescent light sources
and 32 watts for fluorescent sources.
LM) LINEAR ARCHITECTURAL HIGHLIGHTING: Linear lighting (including
neon, fluorescent, rope -lighting, low -voltage striplighting) primarily intended as an
architectural highlight to attract attention or used as a means of identification or
advertisement shall be prohibited.
M) BLINKING LIGHTS. Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating,
flickering, changing intensity and changing color lights shall be prohibited, except
for temporary holiday displays, lighting or public safety or traffic control, or
lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
N) EXEMPTIONS: The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from
the provisions, requirements and review standards of this Section.
1) Health, Safety and Welfare. If a lighting plan or Lvtures are proposed that do
not meet this Code but have demonstrable communityand/or health, safety and
welfare benefits, an exemption may be considered. The applicant shall submit
information to adequately assess the communityand/or health, safety and wetfare
benefits for approval by the Community Development Director.
2) Holiday/Winter Lighting, Residential: Seasonal lighting shall be illuminated
only between Thanksgiving and January 30. Commercial: Seasonal lighting shall
be illuminated only between Thanksgiving and January 30. Redstone Boulevard:
•
Residential and commercial seasonal lighting shall be illuminated only between
Thanksgiving and January 30, or as determined by the Redstone Community
Association.
3) Approved Historic Lighting F&tures. Non -conforming lighting fcrtures which
are consistent with the character of the historic structure may be exempted with
approval from the Historic Preservation Officer or Historic Preservation
Commission. Approved fcYtures shall be consistent with the architectural period
and design style of the structure and shall not exceed SO watts.
4) Lighting for Temporary Commercial Use/Special Events. Requests for
exemptions for lighting associated with temporary commercial uses and/or special
events may be applied for under the Temporary Commercial Uses/Special Events
procedures in the Land Use Code.
O) NONCONFORMING LIGHTING. Unless otherwise specified within this
Ordinance, within one (1) year of the effective date of this Ordinance, all outdoor lighting
fixtures that do not conform to requirements of this Ordinance must be replaced with
conforming fixtures or existing fixtures must be retrofitted to comply. Until that time, all
existing outdoor lighting fixtures in compliance with the 1994 Pitkin County Land Use
Code shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
P) LIGHTING PLAN. Where Scenic Qualitl• policies or regulations are a
consideration in land use reviews of proposed development, the Community
Development Department has the discretion to require submittal and approval of a
lighting plan either as part of the land use review or as a requirement of building
permit submittal.
Q) APPEAL. Any appeals related to decisions regarding outdoor lighting shall be
made to the Board of County Commissioners.
INTRODUCED AND FIRST READ AT A PUBLIC HEARING AND REGULAR
MEETING ON THE 27`h DAY OF OCTOBER, 1999
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLISHED IN THE ASPEN TIME WEEKLY on
the day of , 1999
APPROVED AND ADOPTED AFTER SECOND READING (OR SUBSEQUENT
READING)
AND PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ON THE 3RD DAY OF NOVEMBER, 1999.
PUBLISHED AFTER ADOPTION IN THE ASPEN TIMES WEEKLY ON THE
DAY OF 1 1999
THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE 30 DAYS AFTER
PUBLICATION FOLLOWING FINAL ADOPTION BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO
Leslie J. Lamont, Chairperson
Date:
Lyndee R. Dean, Deputy County Clerk
Approved as to Form:
John Ely, County Attorney
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION:
Ellen Sassano, Senior Long Range Planner
•
•
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Aspen/Pitkin
Community Development Department
130 South Galena Street
Aspen, Colorado 81621
Phone: (970) 920-5090 Fax: (970) 920-5439
City Engineer
Zoning Officer
Housing Director
Parks Department
Aspen Fire Marshal
ity Water
istoric Preservation Officer
Transportation Manager
City Manager
Sanitation District
Building Department
L"nvironmental Health
Electric Department
City Attorney
'Streets Department
RFTA, Mike Davis
Community Development Director
FROM: Stephanie Millar, Community Development
RE: Lighting Ordinance
DATE: July 28, 1999
REFERRAL SCHEDULE
D E G `1i t
Attached for your review and comment is a copy of the Draft Lighting Ordinance
0
toI"�owlP4,c�
To: Chris Meyer, Rising Sun Enterprises - - C
From: Stephanie Millar
Date: July 29, 1999
RE: City of Aspen, Draft Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
No. of pages: 8
Chris,
Following is a copy of the draft lighting ordinance for the City of Aspen. We would like
to retain up to three (3) hours of your services for review of the ordinance.
Specifically, I would like you to focus on some of the following issues:
1. Is there anything that is incomplete or unclear?
2. Are the height recommendations appropriate?
3. Are foot candles recommendations appropriate?
4. Does the ordinance provide us with an appropriate level of control to address our
major issues of concern such as light trespass and "dark sky" protection?
5. Is the Lighting Plan Section clear and complete? Are they unreasonably stringent?
6. Are the review standards reasonable, accurate and clear?
Our goal is to create an ordinance that is as streamlined as possible. We do not want it to
create extra bureaucracy or increase the workload of staff, but we do want it to be
effective in achieving our goals.
As I said in my phone message, I will be out of the office on Friday but will give you a
call on Monday to discuss what we need.
I can be reached at 920-5102 or via email at stephani@ci.aspen.co.us
I look forward to talking with you.
Code Issues Related to Lighting Ordinance
You and Julie Ann asked me to do several things related to the lighting ordinance.
1. Do a word search in the code related to lighting to identify conflicts
2. Ask Chris and Sarah if they could identify additional conflicts or problems
3. Identify what needs to referenced or changed in PUD
4. Develop a list of Street Lights that would comply with our proposed standards
Following is a summary of my findings. I would like to meet with you and discuss these.
1. Do a word search in the code related to lighting to identify conflicts
I did not really find anything I would consider to be conflicting. Following are the areas
that specifically referenced lighting that I thought were relevant.
p p Existing Lighting Code:
1" 26.575.150 Lighting: Any light used to illuminate parking areas or for any other purpose
(QQ shall be so arranged as to reflect the light away from nearby residential properties and
vision of passing motorists.
26.435.040 Stream Margin Review Standards.
Page 119:
All exterior lighting is low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward the river or
located down the slope;
C f D-.,ALQ-
Hallam Lake Bluff review standards.
Page124
5. All exterior lighting shall be low and downcast with no light(s) directed toward
the nature preserve or located down the slope.
U.445.030 Procedures for Review. PN 0
Review Standards page 141 C�-"k q ('
a Lighting. All lighting shall be arranged so as to prevent direct glare or hazardous
interference of any kind to adjoining streets or lands.
26.510 SIGNS
Page 219 c---:) &tV, "A
P. Strings of light and strip lighting. Strip lighting outlining commercial structures
and used to attract attention for commercial purposes, and strings of light bulbs used in
any connection with commercial premises unless the lights shall be shielded.' , , � +
26.515.020 Characteristics of off-street parking spaces and access to street or alley rL .
Page 230
G. Restrictions on lighting. Lighting facilities for off-street parking spaces, if
provided, shall be arranged and shielded so that lights neither unreasonably disturb
occupants of adjacent residential dwellings or interfere with driver vision.
26.575.130 Wireless Telecommunication Services Facilities and Equipment
Page 256
Site plan must include lighting
5. Lighting plan and photometric study indicating the size, height, location
and wattage of all proposed outdoor lighting sources. This study must also
include a graphic indicating the spread and degree/intensity of light from each
source/fixture. This requirement can be waived by the Community Development
Director if little or no outdoor lighting is proposed.
6. Lighting and Siege. In addition to other applicable sections of the code
regulating signage or outdoor lighting, the following standards shall apply to
wireless telecommunication services facilities and equipment:
a. The light source for security lighting shall feature down -
directional, sharp cut-off luminaries to direct, control, screen or shade in
AL_/ such a manner as to ensure that there is no spillage of illumination off site.
b. Light fixtures, whether free-standing or tower -mounted, shall not
exceed twelve (12) feet in height as measured from finished grade.
2. Ask Chris and Sarah if they could identify additional conflicts or problems
Sarah did not have any issues and I did not hear back from Chris yet. �I P
N
3. Identify what needs to referenced or changed in PUD (�\ � _� .�
Chapter 26.445 PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PUD `'V Y N
P ( )
Starts on page 135
I. Lighting. All lighting shall be arranged so as to prevent direct glare or hpus
interference of any kind to adjoining streets or lands. (pg 141)
Propose adding " and must comply with the lighting standards set forth in section Ll i
26.575 of the code
4. Develop a list of Street Lights that would comply with our proposed standards
I am working on finding a standardized list but have not yet located one. An alternative is
that we could change it to say that we will review each request as it comes in and that it
should comply with the spirit of the ordinance.
FAX
To: Chris Rising Sun fax: 927-3635
From: Stephanie Milllar, City of Aspen phone: 920-5102
Chris,
I have had several rounds of edits around here on here on this so it has changed a little bit. Attached is a list
of comments I received yesterday, some of which I could use your advice on. Also attached is the latest draft.
Can you meet at about 8 AM Monday morning? Maybe we could meet at Java Joes or someplace in town,
then I can catch the bus into Aspen when we are done.
Thanks!
Comments on lighting Ord. from Development Review Committee
Page 2, b. Foot Candles AZ
Candles are generally measured from the foot print rather than from 3 feet above. Maybe that should be
changes (Chris?)
v
\ Page 3, Non Residential Lighting, a.
�1 Need a procedure for exemptions (suggestions?)
Page 3, Non Residential Lighting, e. pole mounted fixtures J� /SO
Need to establish max. spacing standards (suggestions?)
\� Page 3, Non Residential Lighting, h. up -lighting 'y. t(„ --
p Prohibit uplighting all together, too hard to be able to tell on a lighting plan how shielding will work
` Comments on Lighting Ord. from Joannie from CORE
Page 3, Non Residential Lighting, o,
Add something for gas stations, such as: � Td
Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require prior approval for lighting. Lighting shall not exceed a maximum of
20 candles under the canopy.
Page 4, Residential Lighting, e
Should there be a maximum wattage per property? U
Page 4, Residential Lighting, f.
You may want to prohibit these entirely
Page 4, Residential Lighting,
Add something about light trespass, such as...
Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot candle as measured at the brightest point.
Page 7, General Requirements 2.Foot Candles, b. security lights
Check with Chris on intensity of security lights \0
Page 7, Review standards -L
Check with Chris on parking lot light height standards, suggest 20, ip 6nmercial areas and in residential
areas. 6W
What about fagade lighting? Standards should include down lit, only historical structures or structures
significance to the community, percent of light allowed, exemption process, complete flogd lighti ohibited.
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MEMO FROM STEPHANIE MILLAR
SENIOR LONG-RANGE PLANNER
130 SOUTH GALENA STREET
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611-1975
- - - - - - - - - --- -
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MEMO FROM STEPHANIE MILLAR
SENIOR LONG-RANGE PLANNER
CVlk_ e vbd �h ck ' cam,,. / r-ee J"v
130 SOUTH GALENA STREET
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611-1975
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THE CITY OF ASPEN
MEMO FROM STEPHANIE MILLAR f
SENIOR LONG-RANGE PLANNER (i j
�y
130 SOUTH GALENA STREET
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611-1975
THE CITY OF ASPEN
MEMO FROM STEPHANIE MILLAR
SENIOR LONG-RANGE PLANNER
�
F /1, I '- , L�'r" -
130 SOUTH GALENA STREET
ASPEN, COLORADO 81611-1975
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Issues from review discussions
— Define Decorative fixtures
Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with any subdivision,
planned unit development, site plan development review, site plan development exemption,
special review application, and building permit application for a commercial and multi -family
building. Said plan shall show the following: page 2
Julie Ann suggested we add "single family" to this list. Is it reasonable to ask all single family
homes to provide alighting plan (a few hundred dollars worth of consulting work)? We could
perhaps say it applies to properties over a certain size... ? Item "B " in the same section allows
us some discretion in what we require, allowing some flexibility in who we demand a lighting
plan from.
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point
light source. Exceptions may be allowed where there is a demonstrated benefit for the
community determined through the exemption process listed in this section. Page 3
This is in Basalt's, under what circumstances would we want to all non fully shielded lights?
(d) HID light sources are allowed with a maximum wattage of 250 high pressure
sodium (HPS) and 250 watt metal halide. Standards for other HID light sources may be
established by the Town for new technology consistent with the above restrictions. Page 3
This is in Basalt's 1 can't remember why such a high wattage would allowed.
(e) Pole mounted fixture spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures shall be no
less than 75 ft. Fully shielded decorative fixtures are allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing.
Wall mounted fixture spacing for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured
horizontally. Aesthetic fixtures directed back toward a building face shall be exempt from this
spacing requirement when fully shielded. Aesthetic fixtures that are not fully shielded shall
maintain a minimum spacing of 25 ft. Where security lighting is a combination of lamp posts
and wall fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. page 3, 4
Check on spacing coverage related to lower pole mounting (from 28 to 16 feet).
Non-residential lighting standards. (h) Uplighting: limited to a total lamp wattage within a fixture
of 35 watts page 4
Do they make outdoor fixtures with such a low wattage?
Page 9 07/22/99
Photo -cell or timer controlled lights shall be prohibited: Julie Ann asked why would we prohibit
these when they seem like a good option for second home owners. Page 4
We would prohibit them because it would be better to have a motion sensor light that is triggered
only when needed. One of our major complaints is the constant lighting of these houses.
However, a timer is better than nothing if they are going to leave them on all the time (day
included) to get around this.
Julie Ann asked what is: Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of
public health, safety, and welfare and temporary in nature with a maximum duration of not more
than ninety (90) days. Page 5
Municipal lighting is a catch all for any special event lighting the city may need to use on a
temporary basis.
General. Non-IESNA approved cut-off fixtures which use incandescent bulbs of 100 watts or
less may be used to illuminate landscape plantings, pedestrian walkways, signage, or product
display areas, provided such fixtures are not within six (6) feet of one another, are not prohibited
(see Section , and comply with all "General Requirements" set forth above. Page 6
Should we get rid of this or lower the wattage allowed?
Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing intensity, and changing
color lights and internally illuminated signs shall be prohibited, except for temporary holiday
displays or lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes. Page 6
Julie Ann wants to know: We have a lot of florescent lights. What are the implications of banning
them? Is there a certain kind offlorescent we should allow and others we should ban?
C: my docs/I ighting/neword. doc
Draft: July 8, 1999
Page 10 07/22/99
I.P Ano' CmM�
Mem ,
To: Julie Ann oo /„o ` U
Sarah Oates��� �
From: tephanie Millar ) \t/S C/ }
RE: Draft Lighting Ord. I
To be reviewed at Thursday s Staff meeting
oA
G
City of Aspen
(. Revised Draft July 8, 1999
Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
r Supplemental Regulations 26.575.
c,-> L-LAC.
�26_575 Intent and Purpose. The City of Aspen is experiencing a significant increase in the
exterior illumination. The residents value Aspen's small town character and the qualities
associated with this character, including the ability to view the stars against a dark sky. They
recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and
unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary
use of electric power. On the other hand, it is also recognized that some exterior lighting is
appropriate and necessary.
This Section is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Aspen
through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting.
Applicability. The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all outdoor lighting
within the City of Aspen. The installation or replacement of any outdoor lighting fixture(s) shall
require a building permit. Said permit may not be issued unless the proposed installation is
found by the Community Development Director, the Historic Preservation Officer, or the Zo ing
Officer to conform to all applicable provisions of this Section. Existing outdoor lighting hall
be considered existing non -compliant lighting for three years from the adoption date of this
ordinance. When an outdoor lighting installation is being modified, extended, expanded, or
added to, the entire outdoor lighting installation shall be subject to the requirements of this
Section.
Definitions.
(a) Fully Shielded Light: light fixtures shielded or constructed so that no light rays
are directly emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as certified by a
photometric test report. The fixture must also be properly installed to effectively down direct
light in order to conform with the definition. Exemptions from this definition may be allowed
for aesthetic lighting elements such as shades with perforated patterns and opaque diffusers.
(b) Foot-candles: a unit of illumination of a surface that is equal to one lumen per
square foot. For the purposes of these regulations, foot-candles shall be measured at a height of
3 ft. above finished grade.
(c) Fixture Height: height of the fixture shall be the vertical distance from the ground
directly below the centerline of the fixture to the lowest direct light emitting part of the fixture.
(d) High Intensity Discharge Light Source (HID): Light sources characterized by an
arc tube or discharge capsule that produces light, with typical sources being metal halide, high
pressure sodium, and other similar types which are developed. in accordance with accepted
industry standards.
(e) Point Light Source: the exact place from which illumination is produced (i.e., a
light bulb filament or discharge capsule).
(f) Light Trespass: the shining of light produced by a light fixture beyond the
boundaries of the property on which it is located.
Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with any subdivision,
planned unit development, site plan development review, site plan development exemption,
special review application, and building permit application for a commercial, j>r multi -family arrI
building. Said plan shall show the following:
(1) The location and height above grade of light fixtures;
N x & (2) The type (such as incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium) and
luminous intensity of each light source;
(3) The type of fixture (such as floodlight, full -cutoff, lantern, coach light);
(4) Estimates for site illumination resulting from the lighting, measured in
foot-candles; and
(5) Other information deemed necessary to document compliance with the
provisions of this Article.
(b) Applications for single family and duplex building permits shall be required to
provide all information necessary to document compliance with the provisions of this Chapter, as
determined by the City Building Official. Said information may be required in the form of a
Page 2 07/20/99
lighting plan consistent with this Section.
Street Lighting'.All lighting illuminating public right-of-ways and easements or private streets
shall conform with the following standards:
J . (a) All light fixtures must be fully shielded. (S C-Ob"to �4A
<�(b) Maximum fixture height shall be 16 ft. Exemptions up to a maximum of 25 ft.
may be granted for street lights located at opposing corners of intersections.
(c) A minimum of 100 ft. shall be maintained between street light fixtures.
Exemptions to t is s an ar may considered when fixtures are located on opposing corners of
fi an intersection, at a pedestrian crosswalk, or where similar special or unique conditions exist.
Exemptions may be considered only where fixture type, placement and light intensity are
� n
modified to conform with the intent of the minimum spacing requirement.
LP (d) Fixture om a list of 7- . Said list will
be approved by th Planning and Zoning Commission. Property owners and developers may
petition the Commission for inc usi #,h,0,, T{L� e.(- ( J VJ p Z
(e) Existing nonconforming fixtures shall be replaced in accordance with regular
replacement schedules. No new nonconforming fixtures shall be use&. 1^ .
Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be applicable to all
non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering
areas, or buildings OL�" shall conform with Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America (IESNA) criteria for "true cut-off fixtures" and be designed, arranged and screened so
that the point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the
bulb or direct lamp image may be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than twice the
mounting height of the fixture. For example, for a fixture with a mounting height of twelve (12)
feet, no portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away. l ,
The light level shall not exceed 15 foot-candles as measured three feet above finished grade.
Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial, pedestrian, or vehicular activity
up to a maximum of 25 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it is:
V • Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for par ' and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to
Lp fir' �"Y a maxiM
of 28 may be allowed; or
ax f • Bui inounte and
directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
k K �'1'�0 • Lighting on above -grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
'M�, (c) vo-
All light sources which are of fully shielde ll use other than a clear lens
N material, as the primary lens material, to enclose e ig t bulta
o minimize glare from a point
Page 3 07/20/99
0 . 0
light source. Exceptions may be allowed where there is a demonstrated benefit for the
community determined through the exemption rocess. �V,er.< < ,� pro G� .
(d) HID light sources are allowed with a maximum wattage of 250 high pressure
r
m (HPS) and 250 watt metal halide. Standards for other HID light sources may belished by the Town for new technology consistent with the above restrictions. W
(e) Pole mounted fixture s acin for security and parking lot light fixtures shall be no
less than 75 ft. Cully shielded decorative fixtures are allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing) ,j
Wall mounted fixture spacing for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured
/ horizontally. Aesthetic fixtures directed back toward a building face shall be exempt from this
spacing requirement when fully shielded. Aesthetic fixtures that are not fully shielded shall
maintain a minimum spacing of 25 ft. Where security lighting is a combination of lamp posts
and wall fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft.
�a✓%t� al f.� Jh•� o arr! c.9 {+ lot GCJJ ti' %��/►� a� �'L7�.� t�+�C C.o
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Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole. ecorative
fixtures may be exempted from this requirement up to a maximum of three ig t sources per
pole. U-) ;t N �tF,,,,h` ,f ��c fix-rt,,,�,
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50% residential based on square c�
footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements may include
awnings, dense shrubs, or ree canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination back to the
ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 1 s .ft. of area (as
Vr, measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture oQ5 watts. —L�e-�^�' '�'^ °'^' • �`
(i) n Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with a
maximum of 150 watts each.
Sign Lighting. In addition to the provisions of Section X X X '\,, the following provisions shall
further regulate lighting of signs„
(a) Sign illumination shall not exceed 75 foot-candles as measured at the brightest
point on the sign face.
r t�7''
(b) Signs in residential neighborhoods ancWne districts''shall be illuminated only by
lighting which conforms with the Residential Lighting Standards.
Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be applicable to
residential properties:
(a) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height.
Page 4 07/20/99
(b) Lighting on above -grade decks or balconies >bAshall be fully shielded.
(c) Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp) shall
be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including halogen shall not exceed 100
watts.
(d) All light sources shall use other than a clear lens material, as the primary lens S
material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point source. is A4,�
e
(e) Landscape lighting is limited tE<50watts er fixture per 150 sq.ft. h; J `
(f) Flood lights and security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1) The point ligounce shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets. A,_ L
1' Photo -cell or timer controlled hts s all be pro i ited
Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that prevents light trespaso
�.� �� • 7) Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
s a finished grade.
,4) p o 1: fix -h..re J -." l.c ! �•- `'� n•-rc-'�" 12 ' t .. �--�
(g) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is triggered by
motion within the owner's property lines.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements may include
awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination
back to the ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 SQ.ft. of f �� A
areas (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture 35 watts. 2
Exemptions. The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from the provisions,
requirements, and review standards of this Section, including those requirementsts per>ine to
Zoning Officer review (see "Procedure," above). Z �.' t y� � i W 1100 Gc ,,,
1. Holiday Lighting. Winter holiday lighting which is temporary in nature and
which is illuminated only between and including the Thanksgiving Holiday and Easter Sunday
shall be exemp from the provisions of this Section, provided that such lighting does not create
dangerous glare on adjacent streets or properties, is maintained in an attractive condition, and
does not constitute a fire hazard.
_,�k )' �s
—� 2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public health,
safety, and welfare and temporary in nature with a maximum duration of not more than ninety
(90) days.
3. Temporary Lighting. Any person may submit a written request to the Community
Development Director for a temporary exemption request. If approved, the exemption shall be
valid for not more than fourteen (14) days from the date of issuance of a written and signed
statement of approval. The approval shall be renewable at the discretion of the Community
n
Page 5 07/20/99
f
Development Director upon consideration of all the circumstances. The Director shall have the
authority to refer an application for a temporary exemption to the Planning and Zoning
Commission or the Historic Preservation Commission if AnA=w deemed appropriate. A
temporary exemption request shall contain at least the following information:
a. Specific exempPOU&o"11rhting
or exemptions requested;
b. TypeJa kd use o fixture(s) involved;
C. Duration of tithe requested for exemption;
d. Type of lamp and calculated lumens;
e. Total wattage of lamp(s);
f. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor light fixture(s);
g. Previous temporary exemptions, if any, and addresses of premises thereunder;
h. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided; and,
i. Such other information as may be required by the Community Development
Department Director.
4�) iJ
4. General. Non-IESNA approved cut-off fixtures which use incandescent bulbs of
100 watts or less may be used to illuminate landscape plantings, pedestrian walkways, signage,
or product display areas, provided such fixtures are not within six (6) feet of one another, are not
prohibited (see Section _�, and comply with all "General Requirements" set forth above.
Prohibitions. The following types of exterior lighting sources, fixtures, and installations shall be
prohibited in the City of Aspen.
1. Light sources shall not be affixed to the top of a roof except where required by
building code. ( or C% r.,,� rav_e,
2. Lighting for the purpose of illuminating a building facade shall be prohibited
when such lighting is mounted to the ground or poles, or is mounted on adjoining/adjacent
structures.
3._ Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing intensity,
and changing color lights and 4hted signs shall be prohibited, except for temporary holiday
displays or lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
4. Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting shall be prohibited due to their
poor color rendering qualities. -n,,; , i u..-�,A a (,f T2"./
5. Linear lighting (including neon, uorescen , rope -lighting, strings Io
lht bulbs�and low voltage strip -lighting) primarily intende as an architectural highlight to aact attentiorf
or used as a means of identification or advertisement shall be prohibited.
6. Unshielded flood lights without motion sensors shall be prohibited.
7. No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with the safe
movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. The following is prohibited:
Page 6 07/20/99
a. Any fixed light not designed for roadway illumination that produces
incident or reflected light that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor vehicle.
b. Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic control
device except as authorized by State, Federal, or City government.
8. No beacon or search light shall be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
9. Up -lighting is prohibited, except as otherwise provided for in this Section.
Nonconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this ordinance, within four (4)
years of the effective date of this ordinance, all out door lighting fixtures that do not conform to
every requirement of this ordinance must be replaced with conforming fixtures or existing
fixtures must be retrofitted to comply. Until that time, all outdoor lighting fixtures that do not
already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
Enforcement. Enforcement of this Section shall adhere to the rules and procedures set forth at
Chapter 26.120 of the Aspen Municipal Code.
Review Standards. / G�
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall b ten (10) f:eeltor less Z ,
above grade in height. Special review may allow lighting of a greater height e following
circumstances: L 6 -�� (1, -Z
a. A fixture of a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a maximum height of
28 feet above grad and shal hielded, or
C. Lighting on a ov ade decks or balconies, which shall be fully shielded.
W 0 2. Shielding, Visibility and Glare.
a. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
apt 41% vv''.�7 properties in a manner that prevents light trespass.
64 b. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
c. All light sources shall use other than a clear lens material, as the primary lens
material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point source. JJ
6*-< d. Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscapin element.
-r ►'�
Such elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or yea and tree w-
canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination back to the ground. In
these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq.ft. of areas
ed in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture
�igting
e. f flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts in conjunction with commercial or public use.
f. Outdoor lighting installation shall not exceed a maximum foot candle ratio of
Page 7 07/20/99
CI
ten to one (10:1) relative to neighboring and adjacent properties within a zone
district. —�
3,57
3. Foot Candles.
a. Landscape lighting is limited t 0 watt Wer fixture per 150 sq.ft.
b. Security lighting and flood light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles
measured 3 ft. above finished grade.
c. Sign illumination shall be allowed only in commercially zoned areas and shall
not exceed 75 foot candles as measured at the brightest point on the sign face.
4. Architectural Compatibility. / I ✓,Lre''' -C�
a. Lighting fixtures on desiguatad4iistoric structures shall be consistent with the
architectural period and design style and shall be approved by the Historic
Preservation Officer.
pa--o C- e�
C rnydocs/Iighting/neword.doc
Draft: July 8, 1999
M
Page 8 07/20/99
•
3,,.,14 ad
w - G4k s
City of Aspen
Revised Draft July 8, 1999
Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Supplemental Regulations 26.575.
26.575. Intent and Purp :'Le. TheCity of Aspen experiencia a significant increase in the
use of exterior illuminationresidents value small town character and the qualities
associated with this character, including the ability to view the stars against a dark sky. They
recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and
unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary
use of electric power. On the other hand, it is also recognized that some exterior lighting is
appropriate and necessary.
This Section is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Aspen
through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
D� h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting.
i
Applicability. The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all outdoor lighting
`` within the City of Aspen. The installation or replacement of any outdoor lighting fixture(s) shall
y J require a building permit. Said permit may not be issued unless the proposed installation is
found by the Community Development Director, the Historic Preservation Officer, or the Zoning
Officer to conform to all applicable provisions of this Section. Existing outdoor lightingipshall ✓
�+ be considered existing non -compliant lighting for three years from the adoption date of this
ordinance. When an outdoor lighting installation is being modified, extended, expanded, or
added to, the entire outdoor lighting installation shall be subject to the requirements of this
y•, A � Section.
Definitions
Fully Shielded Light: light fixtures shielded or constructed so that no light rays
are directly emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as certified by a
r photometric test report. The fixture must also be properly installed to effectively down direct
light in order to conform with the definition. Exemptions from this definition may be allowed
Q for aesthetic lighting elements such as shades with perforated patterns and opaque diffusers.
(b) Foot-candles: a unit of illumination of a surface that is equal to one lumen per
square foot. For the purposes of these regulations, foot-candles shall be measured at a height of
3 ft. above finished grade.
(c) Fixture Height: height of the fixture shall be the vertical distance from the ground
directly below the centerline of the fixture to the lowest direct light emitting part of the fixture.
(d) High Intensity Discharge Light Source (HID): Light sources characterized by an
arc tube or discharge capsule that produces light, with typical sources being metal halide, high
pressure sodium, and other similar types which are developed in accordance with accepted
industry standards.
(e) Point Light Source: the exact place from which illumination is produced (i.e., a
light bulb filament or discharge capsule).
(f) Light Trespass: the shining of light produced by a light fixture beyond the
boundaries of the property on which it is located.
Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with any subdivision,
planned unit development, site plan development review, site plan development exemption,
special review application, and building permit application for a commercial, or multi -family
building. Said plan shall show the following:
(1) The location and height above grade of light fixtures;
(2) The type (such as incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium) and
luminous intensity of each light source;
(3) The type of fixture (such as floodlight, full -cutoff, lantern, coach light);
(4) Estimates for site illumination resulting from the lighting, measured in
foot-candles; and
(5) Other information deemed necessary to document compliance with the
provisions of this Article.
(b) Applications for single family and duplex building permits shall be required to
provide all information necessary to document compliance with the provisions of this Chapter, as
determined by the City Building Official. Said information may be required in the form of a
lighting plan consistent with this Section.
Street Lighting. All lighting illuminating public right-of-ways and easements or private streets
shall conform with the following standards:
(a) All light fixtures must be fully shielded.
(b) Maximum fixture height shall be 16 ft. Exemptions up to a maximum of 25 ft.
may be granted for street lights located at opposing corners of intersections.
Page 2 07/19/99
(c) A minimum of 100 ft. shall be maintained between street light fixtures.
Exemptions to this standard may be considered when fixtures are located on opposing corners of
an intersection, at a pedestrian crosswalk, or where similar special or unique conditions exist.
Exemptions may be considered only where fixture type, placement and light intensity are
modified to conform with the intent of the minimum spacing requirement.
A.
d) Fixture types shall be selected from a list of City Approved Designs. Said list will
e ap ed by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Property owners and developers may
petition the Commission for inclusion of new designs.
(e) Existing nonconforming fixtures shall be replaced in accordance with regular
replacement schedules. No new nonconforming fixtures shall be �.
Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be applicable to all
non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering
areas, or buildings slob& shall conform with Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America (IESNA) criteria for "true cut-off fixtures" and be designed, arranged and screened so
that the point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the
bulb or direct lamp image may be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than twice the
mounting height of the fixture. For example, for a fixture with a mounting height of twelve (12)
feet, no portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away.
The light level shall not exceed 15 foot-candles as measured three feet above finished grade.
Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial, pedestrian, or vehicular activity
up to a maximum of 25 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it is:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up to
a maximum of 28 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point
light source. Exceptions may be allowed where there is a demonstrated benefit for the
community determined through the exemption process.
(d) HID light sources are allowed with a maximum wattage of 250 high pressure
sodium (HP nd 250 watt metal halide. Standards for other HID light sources may be
established by the Town for new technology consistent with the above restrictions.
(e) Pole mounted fixture spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures shall be no
less than 75 ft. Fully shielded decorative fixtures are allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing.
Wall mounted fixture spacing for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured
Page 3 07/19/99
horizontally. Aesthetic fixtures directed back toward a building face shall be exempt from this
spacing requirement when fully shielded. Aesthetic fixtures that are not fully shielded shall
maintain a minimum spacing of 25 ft. Where security lighting is a combination *of lamp posts
and wall fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft.
(f) Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole. Decorative
fixtures may be exempted from this requirement up to a maximum of three light sources per
pole.
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50% residential based on square
footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements may include
awnings, dense shrubs, or tree canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination back to the
ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq.ft. of area (as
measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with a
maximum of 150 watts each.
Sign Lighting. In addition to the provisions of Section XXXX, the following provisions shall
further regulate lighting of signs.
(a) Sign illumination shall not exceed 75 foot-candles as measured at the brightest
point on the sign face.
(b) Signs in residential neighborhoods and zone districts shall be illuminated only by
lighting which conforms with the Residential Lighting Standards.
Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be applicable to
residential properties:
(a) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height.
(b) Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(c) Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp) shall
be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including halogen shall not exceed 100
watts.
(d) All light sources shall use other than a clear lens material, as the primary lens
material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point source.
(e) Landscape lighting is limited to 50 watts per fixture per 150 sq.ft.
Page 4 07/19/99
(f) Flood lights and security lights shall be restricted as follows:
The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
Photo -cell or timer controlled lights shall be prohibited.
Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that prevents light trespass
Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
finished grade.
(g) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is triggered by
motion within the owners property lines.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements may include
awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination
back to the ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq.ft. of
areas (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
Exemptions. The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from the provisions,
requirements, and review standards of this Section, including those requirements pertaining to
Zoning Officer review (see "Procedure," above).
1. Holiday Lighting. Winter holiday lighting which is temporary in nature and
which is illuminated only between and including the Thanksgiving Holiday and Easter Sunday
shall be exempt from the provisions of this Section, provided that such lighting does not create
dangerous glare on adjacent streets or properties, is maintained in an attractive condition, and
does not constitute a fire hazard.
2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public health,
safety, and welfare,
3. Temporary Lighting. Any person may submit a written request to the Community
Development Director for a temporary exemption request. If approved, the exemption shall be
valid for not more than fourteen (14) days from the date of. issuance of a written and signed
statement of approval. The approval shall be renewable at the discretion of the Community
Development Director upon a consideration of all the circumstances. The Director shall have the
authority to refer an application for a temporary exemption to the Planning and Zoning
Commission or the Historic Preservation Commission if and as deemed appropriate. A
temporary exemption request shall contain at least the following information:
a. Specific exemption or exemptions requested;
b. Type and use of outdoor lighting fixture(s) involved;
C. Duration of time requested for exemption;
d. Type of lamp and calculated lumens;
e. Total wattage of lamp(s);
Page 5 07/19/99
�J
f. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor light fixture(s);
g. Previous temporary exemptions, if any, and addresses of premises thereunder;
h. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided; and,
i. Such other information as may be required by the Community Development
Department Director.
4. General. Non-IESNA approved cut-off fixtures which use incandescent bulbs of
100 watts or less may be used to illuminate landscape plantings, pedestrian walkways, signage,
or product display areas, provided such fixtures are not within six (6) feet of one another, are not
prohibited (see Section ), and comply with all "General Requirements" set forth above.
Prohibitions. The following types of exterior lighting sources, fixtures, and installations shall be
prohibited in the City of Aspen.
1. Light sources shall not be affixed to the top of a roof, except where required by
building code.
2. Lighting for the purpose of illuminating a building facade shall be prohibited
when such lighting is mounted to the ground or poles, or is mounted on adjoining/adjacent
structures.
3. Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing intensity,
and changing color lights and lighted signs shall be prohibited, except for temporary holiday
displays or lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
4. Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting shall be prohibited due to their
poor color rendering qualities.
5. Linear lighting (including neon, fluorescent, rope -lighting, strings of light bulbs,
and low voltage strip -lighting) primarily intended as an architectural highlight to attract attention
or used as a means of identification or advertisement shall be prohibited.
6. Unshielded flood lights without motion sensors shall be prohibited.
7. No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with the safe
movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. The following is prohibited:
a. Any fixed light not designed for roadway illumination that produces
incident or reflected light that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor vehicle.
b. Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic control
device except as authorized by State, Federal, or City government.
No beacon or search light shall be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
9. Up -lighting is prohibited, except as otherwise provided for in this Section.
Nonconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this ordinance, withi ou�(4)
Page 6 07/19/99
PZ ��
•
•
years of the effective date of this ordinance, all out door lighting fixtures that do not conform to
siim}- requirementsof this ordinance must be replaced with conforming fixtures or existing
fixtures must be retrofitted to comply. Until that time, all outdoor lighting fixtures that do not
already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
Review Standards.
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be ten (10) feet or less
above grade in height. Special review may allow lighting of a greater height under the following
circumstances:
a. A fixture of a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a maximum height of
28 feet above grade and shall be fully shielded, or
c. Lighting on above grade decks or balconies, which shall be fully shielded.
2. Shielding, Visibility and Glare.
a. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that prevents light trespass.
b. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
c. All light sources shall use other than a clear lens material, as the primary lens
material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point source.
d. Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element.
Such elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or year round tree
canopies, which can functionally reflect illumination back to the ground. In
these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq.ft. of areas
(as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture
of 35 watts.
e. Uplighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts in conjunction with commercial or public use.
f. Outdoor lighting installation shall not exceed a maximum foot candle ratio of
ten to one (10:1) relative to neighboring and adjacent properties within a zone
district.
3. Foot Candles.
a. Landscape lighting is limited to 50 watts per fixture per 150 sq.ft.
b. Security lighting and flood light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles
measured 3 ft. above finished grade.
c. Sign illumination shall be allowed only in commercially zoned areas and shall
not exceed 75 foot candles as measured at the brightest point on the sign face.
Page 7
07/ 19/99
4. Architectural Compatibility.
a. Lighting fixtures on designated historic structures shall be consistent with the
architectural period and design style and shall be approved by the Historic
Preservation Officer.
C rnydocs/lighting/neword.doc
Draft: July 8, 1999
Page 8 07/19/99
0 0 )�k i I ().
X-Sender: philo@water
Date: Tue, 13 Jul 1999 09:44:02 -0600
To: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
From: Phil Overeynder <philo@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: Re: lighting ord.
Cc: jinxc@ci.aspen.co.us
Stephanie,
I checked on the shielding part of the ordinance as well and found that the antique style
of lights (used in the commercial core and west end) aren't set up for shielding. They are
very low intensity lights and shielding is generally not an issue. We should have an
exception built in for these as well.
Phil
At 09:54 AM 7/13/99 -0600, you wrote:
>How is this? I added (e) to allow for the existing Mercury Vapor lights. The rest is taken from national
standards.
>Your input is very much appreciated.
>++++
>Street Lighting. All lighting illuminating public right-of-ways and
>easements or private streets shall conform with the following standards:
> (e) Existing nonconforming fixtures shall be replaced in accordance with regular
replacement schedules. No new nonconforming fixtures shall be purchased.
>At 11:49 AM 7/12/99 -0600, you wrote:
>>Stphanie,
>>I think we would have a problem with an ordinance that prohibits mercury vapor light fixtures. We have
about 90 in the City currently. We generally aren't adding new fixtures of this type. Call me at 5111 if you
have more questions. Thanks,
>>Phil
X-Sender: philo@water
Date: Mon, 12 Jul 1999 11:49:20 -0600
To: stephani@ci.aspen.co.us
From: Phil Overeynder <philo@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: Re: lighting ord.
Stephanie,
I think we would have a problem with an ordinance that prohibits mercury vapor light fixtures.
We have about 90 in the City currently. We generally aren't adding new fixtures of this type. Call
me at 51 I 1 if you have more questions. Thanks,
Phil
>Received: from commons.ci.aspen.co.us (commons.ci.aspen.co.us [205.170.56.1])
>To: Phil Overeynder <philo@ci.aspen.co.us>
>From: Jinx Capparella <jinxc@ci.aspen.co.us>
>Subject: Re: lighting ord.
>Phil, Yes, there are 50 mercury vapor ones in our srevice area and we take care of 36 more in Holy Cross
service area.
>At 02:40 PM 7/9/99 -0600, you wrote:
>>Jinx,
>>Do we use any of these lighting fixtures (see Stephanie's note)?? Let me know, thanks,
>>Phil
>>>Received: from commons.ci.aspen.co.us (commons.ci.aspen.co.us [205.170.56.1])
>>>To: philo@ci.aspen.co.us, nicka@ci.aspen.co.us
>>>From: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
>>>Subject: lighting ord.
>>>Do we have any street lights that are mercury vapor or low-pressure sodium?
>>>I plan to recommend they be prohibited due to their poor color rendering qualities. Most lighting ord.
samples I have seen call for such a prohibition.
>>>Stephanie Lawson Millar
>>>Senior Long -Range Planner
>>>City of Aspen
>>>(970) 920-5102
>>>(970) 920-5439 Fax
Amy Guthrie, 02:53 PM 7/20/99 , Re: lighting ord. .J
X-Sender: amyg@comdev
Date: Tue, 20 Jul 1999 14:53:04 -0600
To: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
From: Amy Guthrie <amyg@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: Re: lighting ord.
We need an exemption in there for historic light fixtures. For instance,
the Isis sign, which we have required to go back on the building, will not
meet the code I assume. I think some other buildings, such as Ute City
Banque, have some original fixtures.
At 02:01 PM 7/20/99 -0600, you wrote:
>In case you would like to review the lighting ord. as modified it is attached.
>It is still long but I think it is less complicated than Mitch's and
>hopefully won't create quite as much additional work while still directing
>us towards our goals.
>Attachment Converted: C:\home\attach\NEWORD.doc
>Stephanie Lawson Millar
>Senior Long -Range Planner
>City of Aspen
>(970) 920-5102
>(970) 920-5439 Fax
Wisit the AACP web site at http://www.aspen.com/character/
Printed for Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us> 1
e
Ce
Review Standards:
1. Heig utdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be ten (10) feet or less
in height.,Special review may allow lighting of a greater height under the following �y
circumstances:
a. A fixture of a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with a
non adjustable mounting; or
Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a maximum height of�-
28 feet and shall be fully shielded, or
Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded. C w,-*- k ��
2. Shielding, Visibility and Glare.
a. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that prevents light trespass. cu-
b. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets..
c. All light sources shall use other than a clear lens material, as the primary lens
material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a point source.
d. Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is effectively�� Ix
contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such elements
may include awnings, dense shrubs, or tree canopies, which can functionally --
reflect illumination back to the ground. In these cases the fixture spacing is 0" C'
limited to one fixture per 150 sq.ft. of areas (as measured in a horizontal plane)r�-
and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts. \uj4
e. Uplighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with a
maximum of 150 watts awas ON454K Gin J U wed
f. Outdoor lighting installation shall not exceed a maximum foot candle ratio of ten �� c
to one (10:1) relative to neighboring and adjacent properties within a zone district.
3
3. Foot Candles.
a. Landscape lighting is limited to 50 watts per fixture per 150 sq.ft.
b. Security lighting and flood light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles
measured 3 ft. above finished grade.
c. Sign illumination shall be allowed only in commercially zoned areas and shall not
exceed 75 foot candles as measured at the brightest point on the sign face.
4. Architectural Compatibility. 1
a. Lighting fixtures on designated historic structures shall be consistent with the
architectural period and design style and shall be approved by the Historic km r4-
Preservation Commission. Yte (cam
07/02/99
Lee Cassin, 11:49 AM 7/7/99 -, Re: Lighting Ord.
Lee, C -
Date: Wed, 7 Jul 1999 11:49:23 -0600 (MDT)
X-Sender: leec@comdev
To: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.ospen.co.us>
From: Lee Cassin <leec@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: Re: Lighting Ord.
Stephanie,
Sorry, I had to meet with Amy on fluoride when you were meeting. My only
thought was, from an enivronmental point of view, not planning, it seems
like it's all design and there's no attempt to say you can't have
90-bazillion lights if they're the right type or a design hpc likes.
Shouldn't the total foot-candles in any one house be limited? How about
requiring use of efficient lights - compact fluorescents, halogens, solar
lights???
Also, where I live, soon to be annexed, in affordable housing, our wiring
failed and we had to put in new lights. Would we really have to incur the
costs of going to hpc and p&z and an application just to put in lights????
Maybe review only if you have a lot or certain kinds? Maybe exempt
affordable or deed restricted units?
thanks, lee
At 11:03 AM 7/7/99 -0600, you wrote:
>Do any of you have any comments on the lighting ordinance I gave you last week?
>After meeting internally, I believe we are going to try and simplify the
>ordinance. Any comments you have on what you think should or should not be
>included would be helpful.
>Stephanie Lawson Millar
>Senior Long -Range Planner
>City of Aspen
>(970) 920-5102
>(970) 920-5439 Fax
Wisit the AACP web site at http://www.aspen.com/character/
Lee. E. Cassin, City Director
Aspen/Pitkin Environmental Health Department
(970)920-5075
fax (970)920-5074
http://www.aspen.com/airquality
Printed for Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
X-Sender: saraho@comdev
Date: Thu, 08 Jul 1999 12:19:25 -0600
To: Stephanie Millar <stephani@ci.aspen.co.us>
From: Sarah Oates <saraho@ci.aspen.co.us>
Subject: Re: Lighting Ord.
The only comment I have is that thedgyximum allowable sign is 20 sq. ft. so
the regulation about turning them off at 11 pm if 20 sq. ft. or greater is
not relevant. I don't really have issues with signs being illuminated late
at night, but that's just me.
Maybe we should talk about residential issues --many of the complaints about
lighting are from neighbors of houses that leave there lights on all the
time. It is really unenforceable, but it is something to think about.
We also should sit down and talk about how the lighting code and sign code
will fit together. Do you have anything scheduled in front of council or
P&Z? Let me know.
At 11:34 AM 7/8/99 -0600, you wrote:
>Here are Basalt's regulations regarding Sign Lighting. I want to make this
>consistent with where ever our new sign code is going - I know there is no
>back lighting or neon allowed but I don't know the following: maximum size?
>Time you have to turn off light? Residential issues? Anything else you would
>add here?
>Sign Lighting.
> In addition to the provisions of Section XXXX, the following provisions
>shall further regulate lighting of signs.
> (a) Sign illumination shall not exceed 75 foot-candles as measured at the
>brightest point on the sign face.
> (b) Signs in residential neighborhoods and zone districts shall be
>illuminated only by lighting which conforms with the Residential Lighting
>Standards.
> (c) Illuminated signs equal to or larger than 20 sq.ft. in size shall be
>turned off no later than 11:00 p.m. or one-half hour after the use to which
>it is appurtenant is closed, whichever is later.
Cut-off fixture as defined by IESNA.
•
RISING SUN ENTERPRISES, INC.
(970) 927-8051
0040 SUNSET DR #1
BASALT. CO 81621
vv� INVOICE
SOLD SHIP
TO: CITY OF ASPEN TO:
130 S. GALENA
ASPEN, CO
81611 AT�P SzLNA1j'c /LLAJZ
SHIP VIA .....:
SHIP DATE ...:
DUE DATE ....
TERMS ......:
08/31/99
09/01/99
UPON RECPT
INVOICE NUMBER: 114950
INVOICE DATE: 08/31/99
PAGE: 1
LIGHTING ORDINANCE
REVISION
CUST. I.D...........:
P.O. NUMBER .......
P.O. DATE .........:
OUR ORDER NO.....:
SALESPERSON ......
CI05
08/31/99
CHRIS
ZEM I.D./DESC. ORDERED 1" 1
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONSULTING 3.00 3.00 EACH 75.0000 225.00 E
HOURLY CONSULTATION ON LIGHTING
ORDINANCE
CONSULTING 1.50 1.50 EACH 0.0000 0.00 E
HOURLY CONSULTATION ON LIGHTING
ORDINANCE
End user is responsible for any USE Taxes SUBTOTAL: 225.00
A Finance charge of 1.5% interest per month TAX 0.00
will be charged on all invoices over 30 days. PAYMENTS: 0.00
TOTAL 225.00 -
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PUBLIC NOTICE
RE: CITY OF ASPEN OUTDOOR LIGHTING ORDINACE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held on Tuesday,
September 7, 1999, at a meeting to begin at 4:30 p.m. before the Aspen Planning and
Zoning Commission, Sister Cities Meeting Room, City Hall, 130 S. Galena St., Aspen, to
consider and forward a recommendation to City Council for an amendment to the land
use code regarding A City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance. Amendments to the following
Municipal Code Sections will be considered at this public hearing:
26.575 SUPPLEMTARY REGULATIONS: OUTDOOR LIGHTING
26.104.100 DEFINIATIONS
26.304 COMMON DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
For further information, contact Stephanie Millar at the Aspen/Pitkin Community
Development Department, 130 S. Galena St., Aspen, CO (970) 920-5102.
s/Robert Blaich Chair
Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
Published in the Aspen Times August 21, 1999
City of Aspen Account
Due August 17
G:/pl anning/aspen/notices/I.IGHTING8-99.doc
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Memorandum
To: Aspen City Council
Thru: Amy Margerum, Aspen City Manager
Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Director
From: Stephanie Millar, Senior Long -Range Planner
Date: October 25, 1999
Re: Lighting Ordinance
Summary
The City of Aspen has experienced an increase in the use of exterior illumination. City -residents'
value small town character and the qualities associated with this character, including the ability
to view the stars against a dark sky. They recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or
installed outdoor lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy
the nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that
some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
The draft Lighting Ordinance is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the
residents of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a. promote safety and security;
b. help preserve the small town character;
C. eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d. reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e. provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f. encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g. conserve energy; and,
h. prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting and light
trespass.
Background
The City Council of the City of Aspen requested that a lighting ordinance be drafted and
considered as a code revision. Staff held a work session with the Planning and Zoning
Commission on April 20, 1999 and identified the issues the Commissioners wished to see
addressed. Staff was directed at that time to utilize Basalt's recently adopted ordinance as a
model and to build upon that work to meet Aspen's needs.
Referral Comments:
The draft Lighting Ordinance was presented to the Development Review Committee at a meeting
on August 11, 1999. All interested departments were invited to review the ordinance and
comments were received from Engineering, Building, and the City Attorneys Office. At that time
and during other meetings with Community Development staff, issues were identified related to
the strength of foot-candles allowed, where foot-candles are measured from, exemption
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procedures, up -lighting, maximum spacing of fixtures and other such issues. The ordinance
received several rounds of edits and reviews.
In addition, following all internal City staff review, the draft ordinance was reviewed by Chris
Myers, local lighting consultant and co-author of the Lighting Ordinance for the Town of Basalt.
The resulting ordinance is attached, and would be located under Supplemental Regulations in the
Land Use Code.
Review Standards
Please see attached Exhibit A.
Planning and Zoning Commission Comments:
The Planning and Zoning Commission passed a resolution with a vote of 5 to 0 in support of the
proposed ordinance with the following changes.
1. Reduce the time period to come into compliance from 3 years to 1 year and add a timeframe
in which to correct the problem;
2. Reduce the time period allowed for holiday lighting from March 1 to January 15;
3. Simplify the instrument of measurements if possible (lumens, foot-candles and watts); and
4. Make efforts to coordinate with the County for the Metro Area so that there is some
consistency in zoning codes for outdoor lighting standards.
Staff Recommendation:
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended reducing the time period for compliance
with this ordinance. Staff feels that one-year may be too onerous a time period in which to
expect existing lighting to comply, especially for residential users. It should be noted that all new
lighting is expected to comply with the new ordinance, so no new non -conformities will be
created. Staff therefore recommends that the three-year period for compliance be maintained.
In addition, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended curtailing the time period in
which all holiday lights could be displayed. Staff recommends that decorative lighting of trees
with white mini -bulbs be exempted, especially within the downtown area. Banning all holiday
lighting after January 15 would require private businesses and the City to remove lights from the
trees on the pedestrian mall and other areas heavily visited by pedestrians in the winter. Staff
feels that this lighting adds a pleasant atmosphere to the downtown area on dark winter
afternoons and has no ill effects on the community. Staff recommends that holiday lighting be
allowed until March 1.
Recommended Motion
"I move to approve Ordinance Number 47, Series of 1999, on first reading.
City Manager's Comments
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Exhibit A
REVIEW STANDARDS
Chapter 26.92, Amendments To The Land Use Regulations And Official Zone District Map, at
Section 26.92.020 provides nine (A -I) standards for City Council and the Planning and Zoning
Commission's review of proposed amendments to the text of the Land Use Code. These standards
and staffs evaluation of the potential amendment relative to them are provided below, with the
standard in italics followed by the staff "response."
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable portions of this title.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any applicable portions of the
Aspen Municipal Code.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment would not be in conflict with any elements of the AACP.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and land
uses, considering existing land uses and neighborhood characteristics.
RESPONSE: The proposed amendment does not impact land uses or zone districts per se, and the
lighting limitations protect existing neighborhood character.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment will not have any effect on traffic generation and will
improve road safety by reducing night lighting glare. .
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in demands on public
facilities, and whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would exceed the
capacity of such public facilities, including but not limited to transportation facilities, sewage
facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and emergency medical facilities.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have an effect on infrastructure or
infrastructure capacities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in significantly
adverse impacts on the natural environment.
RESPONSE: The proposed code amendment is not anticipated to have a negative effect on the
natural environment. In fact, staff believes that by establishing a limit to lighting levels and related
glare, there should be less visual impact on the surrounding natural environment and wildlife.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community character
in the City of Aspen.
RESPONSE: Staff believes that limiting the lighting levels in the City of Aspen will protect visibility
of the night sky and maintain the small town feel of the community, two features highly valued by
local residents. Lighting levels will still be adequate by national standards and it will not
compromise community safety.
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H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the surrounding
neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
RESPONSE: There has been no significant change in Aspen's general character. The concern that
prompted this ordinance was a desire to protect the character of Aspen and the visibility of stars in
the night sky. This is one of many land use code amendments staff will be bringing before the
commission throughout the year.
1. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the public interest, and is in
harmony with the purpose and intent of this title.
RESPONSE: Staff believes the proposed amendment would be in harmony with the public interest
by ensuring the continued health, safety and welfare of Aspen residents and visitors while
maintaining visibility of the night sky and protecting the small town community character.
Supplemental Regulations 26.575.150
Outdoor Lighting
A. Intent and Purpose. The City of Aspen has experienced a significant increase in
the use of exterior illumination. City residents' value small town character and the
qualities associated with this character, including the ability to view the stars against a
dark sky. They recognize that inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor
lighting causes unsafe and unpleasant conditions, limits their ability to enjoy the
nighttime sky, and results in unnecessary use of electric power. It is also recognized that
some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary.
This Section is intended to help maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the residents
of Aspen through regulation of exterior lighting in order to:
a.
promote safety and security;
b.
help preserve the small town character;
C.
eliminate the escalation of nighttime light pollution;
d.
reduce glaring and offensive light sources;
e.
provide clear guidance to builders and developers;
f.
encourage the use of improved technologies for lighting;
g.
conserve energy; and,
h.
prevent inappropriate and poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting.
B. Applicability. The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all
outdoor lighting within the City of Aspen. Existing outdoor lighting shall be considered
legal non -conforming lighting for one year from the adoption date of this ordinance.
C. Definitions.
(a) Fully Shielded Light: light fixtures shielded or constructed so that no light
rays are directly emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as
certified by a photometric test report. The fixture must also be properly installed to
effectively down direct light in order to conform with the definition.
(b) Foot-candles: a unit of illumination of a surface that is equal to one lumen
per square foot. For the purposes of these regulations, foot-candles shall be measured at
a height of 3 ft. above finished grade.
(c) Fixture Height: height of the fixture shall be the vertical distance from the
ground directly below the centerline of the fixture to the lowest direct light emitting part
of the fixture.
(d) High Intensity Discharge Light Source (HID): Light sources characterized
by an arc tube or discharge capsule that produces light, with typical sources being metal
halide, high pressure sodium, and other similar types which are developed in accordance
with accepted industry standards.
(e) Point Light Source: the exact place from which illumination is produced
(i.e., a light bulb filament or discharge capsule).
(f) Light Trespass: the shining of light produced by a light fixture beyond the
boundaries of the property on which it is located.
D. Lighting Plans.
(a) An outdoor lighting plan shall be submitted in conjunction with
applications for subdivision, planned unit development, development within any
environmentally sensitive area, special review application, and building permit
application for a commercial or multi -family building. Such lighting plans shall be
subject to establishment and approval through the applicable review processes. Said
lighting plan shall show the following:
(1) The location and height above grade of light fixtures;
(2) The type (such as incandescent, halogen, high pressure sodium)
and luminous intensity of each light source;
(3) The type of fixture (such as floodlight, full -cutoff, lantern, coach
light);
(4) Estimates for site illumination resulting from the lighting, as
measured in foot-candles, should include minimum, maximum and
average illumination. Comparable examples already in the
community that demonstrate technique, specification, and/or light
level should be provided if available to expedite the review
process; and
(5) Other information deemed necessary by the Community
Development Director to document compliance with the provisions
of this Article.
(b) Single family and duplex building shall be in compliance with the
standards of Section 26.575.090.
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to all non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways,
maneuvering areas, or buildings shall conform to the definition for "fully shielded light
fixtures" and be designed, arranged and screened so that the point light source shall not
be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may
be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than twice the mounting height of the
fixture. For example, for a fixture with a mounting height of twelve (12) feet, no portion
of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away in any
direction. The light level shall not exceed 10 foot-candles as measured three feet above
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finished grade. Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial,
pedestrian, or vehicular activity up to a maximum of 20 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or
more of the following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case
heights up to a maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade;
or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully
shielded.
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear
lens material as the primary lens material to enclose the light bulb so as to minimize glare
from that point light source. Exceptions may be allowed where there is a demonstrated
benefit for the community determined through the exemption process listed in this
section.
(d) High Intensity Discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum
wattage of 175 high pressure sodium (HPS) and 175 watt metal halide (coated lamp —
3,000 degrees Kelvin). Standards for other HID light sources may be established by the
City for new technology consistent with the above restrictions.
(e) Spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures that are pole mounted
shall be no less than 75 ft. apart. Decorative fixtures (which are also fully shielded) are
allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing. Wall mounted fixture spacing for security
lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured horizontally. Decorative fixtures directed
back toward a building face shall be exempt from this spacing requirement when shielded
and shall not exceed 50 watts. Decorative fixtures that are not shielded shall maintain a
minimum spacing of 25 ft. and shall not exceed 50 watts. Where security lighting is a
combination of pole and wall mounted fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. and a
maximum of 150 ft.
(f) Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole.
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50% residential based on
square footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element. Such
elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree canopies, which can
functionally contain or limit illumination of the sky. In these cases the fixture spacing is
limited to one fixture per 150 sq. ft. of area (as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total
lamp wattage within a fixture of 35 watts.
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(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole
with a maximum of 150 watts each. The fixtures must be shielded such that the point
source is not visible outside of a 15-ft. radius.
0) Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require approval for lighting.
Lighting shall not exceed a maximum of 20 candles under the canopy.
F. Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to residential properties:
(a.) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless it meets one or
more of the following criteria:
• Fully shielded with a non-adjustable mounting; or
• Lighting for parking and vehicle circulation areas in which case heights up
to a maximum of 20 ft. may be allowed; or
• Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building fagade; or
• Lighting on above grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
(b.) Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or
lamp) shall be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including halogen shall
not exceed 50 watts.
(c.) All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material, as the primary lens material, to enclose the light bulb to minimize glare from a
point source.
(d) Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq. ft. of
landscaped area (as measured in a horizontal plane).
(e) Security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots
or streets.
2. Flood lights must be controlled by a switch or preferably a
motion sensor activated only by motion within owners
property.
3. Photo -cell or timer controlled flood lights shall be prohibited.
4. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from
adjacent properties in a manner that limits light trespass to .1 of
a foot candle as measured at the property line.
5. Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft.
above finished grade.
6. No light fixture shall be greater than 12 feet in height.
Exceptions are:
(a.) Tree mounted fully shielded, downward directed lights
using a light of 25 watts or less, and
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(b.) Building mounted flood lights fully shielded, downward
directed lights using a light of 50 watts or less.
(f) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is
triggered by motion within the owner's property lines.
(g) Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot-candle as
measured at the brightest point.
G. Street Lighting Standards. All new lighting illuminating public right-of-ways
and easements or private streets shall conform with the following standards:
(a) Street Light fixtures shall be approved jointly by the Community
Development and Electric Department Directors and shall comply with the guidelines of
this ordinance.
H. Exemptions. The following types of lighting installations shall be exempt from
the provisions, requirements, and review standards of this Section, including those
requirements pertaining to Zoning Officer review.
l . Holiday Lighting. Winter holiday lighting which is temporary in nature
and which is illuminated only between and including November 15 and March 1 shall be
exempt from the provisions of this Section, provided that such lighting does not create
dangerous glare on adjacent streets or properties, is maintained in an attractive condition,
and does not constitute a fire hazard.
2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public
health, safety, and welfare including but not limited to traffic control devices, existing
street lights, and construction lighting.
3. Temporary Lighting. Any person may submit a written request to the
Community Development Director for a temporary exemption request. If approved, the
exemption shall be valid for not more than fourteen (14) days from the date of issuance of
a written and signed statement of approval. An additional 14 day temporary exemption
may be approved by the Director. The Director shall have the authority to refer an
application for a temporary exemption to the Planning and Zoning Commission or the
Historic Preservation Commission if deemed appropriate. A temporary exemption request
shall contain at least the following information:
a. Specific exemption or exemptions requested;
b. Type, use and purpose of outdoor lighting fixture(s) involved;
C. Duration of time requested for exemption;
d. Type of lamp and calculated lumens;
e. Total wattage of lamp(s);
f. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor light fixture(s);
g. Previous temporary exemptions, if any;
and,
h. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided;
i. Such other information as may be required by the Community
Development Department Director.
4. Approved Historic Lighting Fixtures. Non -conforming lighting fixtures
which are consistent with the character of the historic structure or district may be
exempted with approval from the Historic Preservation Officer or Historic Preservation
Commission. Approved fixtures shall be consistent with the architectural period and
design style of the structure or district and shall not exceed 50 watts.
5. Decorative lighting elements, such as shades with perforated patterns and
opaque diffusers, may be exempted from the fully -shielded requirement provided they do
not exceed 50 watts.
6. If a proposed lighting plan or fixtures are proposed that do not meet this
code but that have demonstrable community benefit, an exemption may be considered.
The applicant shall submit additional information to adequately assess the community
benefit for approval by the Community Development Director.
I. Prohibitions. The following types of exterior lighting sources, fixtures, and
installations shall be prohibited in the City of Aspen.
1. Light sources shall not be affixed to the top of a roof or under a roof eave,
except where required by building code.
2. Lighting for the purpose of illuminating a building facade shall be
prohibited when such lighting is mounted to the ground or poles, or is mounted on
adjoining/adjacent structures.
3. Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, changing
intensity, and changing color lights and internally illuminated signs shall be prohibited,
except for temporary holiday displays, lighting for public safety or traffic control, or
lighting required by the FAA for air traffic control and warning purposes.
4. Mercury vapor and low-pressure sodium lighting shall be prohibited due
to their poor color rendering qualities.
5. Linear lighting (including but not limited to neon and fluorescent lighting)
primarily intended as an architectural highlight to attract attention or used as a means of
identification or advertisement shall be prohibited.
7. Unshielded flood lights shall be prohibited.
Lighting directed toward the Roaring Fork River or its tributaries.
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8. No outdoor lighting may be used in any manner that could interfere with
the safe movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares. The following is
prohibited:
a. Any fixed light not designed for roadway illumination that
produces direct light or glare that could be disturbing to the operator of a motor
vehicle.
b. Any light that may be confused with or construed as a traffic
control device except as authorized by State, Federal, or City government.
9. No beacon or search light shall be installed, illu ninated, or maintained.
10. Up -lighting is prohibited, except as otherwise provided for in this Section.
I Nonconforming Lighting. Unless otherwise specified within this ordinance,
within three (3) years of the effective date of this ordinance, all out door lighting fixtures
that do not conform to requirements of this ordinance must be replaced with conforming
fixtures or existing fixtures must be retrofitted to comply. Violations shall be corrected
within 60 days of being cited. Until that time, all existing outdoor lighting fixtures that
do not already comply shall be considered legal nonconforming fixtures.
K. Review Standards.
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be twelve (12)
feet or less above grade in height. Special review by the Planning and Zoning
Commission may allow lighting of a greater height under the following
circumstances:
a. A fixture at a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded
with a non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for commercial parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a
maximum height of 20 feet above grade and shall be fully shielded, or
c. Lighting on above -grade decks or balconies, which shall be fully shielded.
2. Foot Candles. Outdoor Non -Residential (26.575.070), Sign (26.575.080),
and Residential (26.575.090) Lighting Standards shall not exceed the foot candles
designated in their respective sections. Special review by the Planning and Zoning
Commission may allow lighting of a greater intensity under the following
circumstances:
a. A fixture of a greater light intensity is required due to safety, building
design, or extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully
shielded with a non adjustable mounting; or
b. An architectural or historical feature requires greater illumination, in
which case the light shall be fully shielded with a non adjustable
mounting.
L. Procedures.
Administrative Review Procedures
Lighting plans submitted in conjunction with applications for subdivision,
planned unit development, development within any environmentally sensitive
area, or special review application shall be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
Lighting plans submitted as a part of a building permit application for a
commercial or multi -family structure shall be reviewed administratively by the
Community Development Director. The Director shall have the authority to refer
an application to the Planning and Zoning Commission or the Historic
Preservation Commission if deemed appropriate.
Appeals
Any appeals related to decisions regarding outdoor lighting shall be made to the
Board of Adjustment compliant with the procedures in the Appeals Section
26.316 of this Land Use Code.
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