Outdoor Lighting Ordinance

• Check your outdoor light bulbs
• Examples of acceptable light fixtures
• Incandescent vs. Compact Flourescent Light Bulbs

 Boulder Light Meter Readings (60.39 KB)

On July 15, 2003, the City Council approved a new outdoor lighting ordinance. The objectives of the ordinance are to prevent light trespass, reduce light pollution (also known as “sky glow”), reduce excessive glare, promote energy conservation, and improve safety and security (including addressing the special nighttime lighting needs of an aging population).

The objectives of the new ordinance are accomplished by:

• Establishing maximum allowable lighting levels which are based on zoning district and use;
• Requiring lighting to be reasonably uniform to minimize light/dark contrast;
• Requiring all light in excess of 2400 lumens (roughly equivalent to a 150 watt incandescent light bulb) to be “white light," which includes metal halide, fluorescent, and induction light bulbs, because of superior color rendering properties; and
• Requiring the use of full cut-off light fixtures and shielding to reduce glare, light pollution and light trespass.

How does this affect my property?

• The ordinance allows property owners with existing lighting installations that are not in compliance with the ordinance 15 years to comply.
• Property owners with building permits for multifamily dwelling units and non-residential projects, which include outdoor lighting improvements, will have to submit lighting plans that meet the requirements of the ordinance.
• All new buildings must comply with all the requirements of the ordinance. Redevelopment and remodeling will have to meet certain levels of compliance based on “thresholds." The thresholds and required lighting improvements are based on the valuation of the proposed building improvements.
• Lighting plans are not required for single-family detached dwelling units. There are, however, some minimal requirements for single-family dwellings such as requiring the use of shielded light fixtures.
• Check your outdoor lights

Questions about the ordinance can be directed to the P&DS Service Center at 303-441-1880.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 06 December 2006 04:43