Lighting Regulations in Akron, Colorado: Guidelines for Agricultural Community & Special Use Cases

Introduction to Akron's Lighting Approach

Nestled in northeastern Colorado, the town of Akron traces its origins back to 1882 when it was established as a railroad town. Named after Akron, Ohio, this small community has deep roots in agriculture and railroad heritage that continue to shape its identity today. Unlike larger urban centers with extensive lighting codes, Akron's regulations focus on specific use cases that reflect its rural character and community values.

The town's approach to lighting regulation demonstrates its commitment to maintaining its small-town charm while addressing modern needs. With its agricultural foundation and dedication to preserving its heritage, Akron has developed targeted lighting guidelines that serve specific purposes within the community rather than comprehensive lighting codes.

Quick Reference Guide to Akron's Lighting Regulations

• Marijuana Cultivation:
• Permitted: LED, CFL, and fluorescent lighting only
• Prohibited: All HID lighting including mercury vapor, metal halide, and sodium vapor lamps
• Airport Safety Lighting:
• Obstruction markers and lights required for structures near Colorado Plains Regional Airport
• No lighting that could confuse pilots or cause glare affecting airport operations
• Mobile Home Parks:
• Adequate lighting required for streets, driveways, and walkways
• Screening may be required to shield residents from undesirable external lighting
• General Property Standards:
• No offensive glare permitted beyond property boundaries

Marijuana Cultivation Lighting Requirements

Approved Lighting Technologies

Akron's code specifically addresses lighting for indoor marijuana cultivation with clear guidelines on acceptable technology. Property owners engaged in this activity must adhere to strict lighting requirements:

• Only the following lighting types are permitted:
• Light Emitting Diodes (LED)
• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL)
• Fluorescent lighting

Prohibited Lighting Systems

The town code explicitly prohibits high-intensity discharge lighting for marijuana cultivation:

• All of the following HID lighting is prohibited:
• Mercury vapor lamps
• Metal halide (MH) lamps
• Ceramic MH lamps
• Sodium vapor lamps
• High pressure sodium (HPS) lamps
• Xenon short arc lamps

Compliance Considerations

These regulations likely aim to reduce energy consumption and minimize potential light pollution in Akron's agricultural setting. Indoor growers must ensure their operations use only approved lighting technologies to remain in compliance with local ordinances.

Airport Vicinity Lighting Controls

Safety-First Approach

Given the presence of the Colorado Plains Regional Airport, Akron has established specific lighting regulations for properties in the vicinity to ensure aircraft safety.

Obstruction Marking Requirements

• Owners of nonconforming structures or trees must allow the installation of markers and lights identified as necessary by the town
• These markers and lights are installed, operated, and maintained at the expense of the Colorado Plains Regional Airport

Prohibited Lighting Effects

The code stipulates that no use of land, water, or structures within established airport zones may:

• Make it difficult for pilots to distinguish between airport lights and others
• Result in glare affecting pilots using the airport
• Impair visibility in the vicinity of the airport

Conditional Permits

Any permit or variance granted may require the property owner to:

• Install, operate, and maintain appropriate markings and lights in accordance with FAA provisions
• Bear the expense of such required lighting and marking installations

Mobile Home Development Lighting Standards

Safety Illumination Requirements

Akron's code includes specific provisions for lighting in mobile home parks:

• Adequate lighting must be provided to illuminate:
• Streets
• Driveways
• Walkways
• Lighting must be sufficient for "the safe movement of vehicles and pedestrians at night"

Screening and Light Trespass Prevention

The regulations also address potential light trespass issues:

• Walls or vegetative screening shall be provided along perimeters of mobile home developments where needed
• Such screening protects residents from undesirable lighting from external sources
• Screening also serves to separate mobile home parks from adjoining residential districts

General Property Lighting Considerations

Nuisance Prevention

Akron's general property standards include a provision that addresses lighting as a potential nuisance:

• No offensive glare is permitted at or beyond property lines
• This regulation appears alongside other nuisance prohibitions including noise, vibration, smoke, and odors

Good Neighbor Practices

While specific technical standards for residential lighting are limited, the general prohibition on offensive glare encourages property owners to consider how their lighting affects neighboring properties and to minimize potential light trespass.

Supporting Akron's Rural Character

Bock Lighting's Alignment with Community Values

As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the importance of preserving community character while meeting modern lighting needs. We recognize Akron's commitment to maintaining its agricultural heritage and small-town charm, values that align with our approach to thoughtful, contextually appropriate lighting solutions.

Understanding Rural Lighting Needs

Akron's focus on specific use cases rather than comprehensive lighting codes reflects its rural nature. Bock Lighting appreciates the unique needs of agricultural communities, where practical lighting solutions must balance safety, functionality, and respect for the natural darkness that characterizes small towns.

Educational Resources for Compliance

Our team can serve as a resource for property owners seeking to understand and comply with local lighting regulations. Whether addressing airport vicinity concerns, mobile home park requirements, or agricultural lighting needs, we're committed to supporting solutions that respect Akron's community character and regulatory framework.

Commitment to Sustainable Practices

We share Akron's apparent concern for energy efficiency, as reflected in its marijuana cultivation lighting restrictions. Our dedication to sustainable lighting practices complements the town's approach to targeted, purposeful lighting regulation.

Conclusion: Navigating Akron's Focused Lighting Approach

Akron's lighting regulations reflect its identity as a small agricultural community with specific needs rather than a comprehensive urban lighting code. Property owners should pay particular attention to regulations affecting special use cases, including marijuana cultivation, properties near the airport, and mobile home developments.

While the town doesn't have extensive technical specifications for general property lighting, the prohibition on offensive glare beyond property lines establishes a basic standard for considerate lighting practices. This approach allows flexibility while maintaining neighborhood harmony and respecting Akron's rural character.

For property owners with specific questions about lighting compliance, consulting with town officials is recommended to ensure adherence to all applicable regulations. As Akron continues to balance its historical agricultural heritage with modern needs, thoughtful lighting choices will help preserve the community's unique rural charm.