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In the heart of Washington County, the city of Banks balances its historical timber town roots with modern development needs. With a population that has grown from just 563 residents in 1990 to 1,837 by 2020, this small community faces the challenge of maintaining its rural charm while accommodating growth. The city's lighting regulations reflect this balance, aiming to preserve Banks' night sky and small-town character while ensuring safety and functionality.
For property owners and businesses in Banks, here are the key lighting regulations to know:
Banks began as a meeting place for trappers and early settlers, eventually becoming an important hub for the timber industry. Despite its growth and proximity to larger cities like Portland and Hillsboro, Banks has retained its small-town atmosphere and connection to its historical roots.
The city's lighting ordinances specifically aim to:
Banks recognizes that proper lighting is essential for safety, but believes this can be achieved without sacrificing the town's rural character or creating unnecessary light pollution.
Banks takes a conservative approach to lighting in residential neighborhoods:
In commercial zones, the regulations focus on controlling light direction:
For businesses considering electronic signage, the city allows:
The outdoor lighting standards in Banks apply to all new development in all zones, ensuring consistent lighting practices throughout the community.
The fundamental requirement for all exterior lighting in Banks is simple:
When reviewing development proposals, the city examines:
To ensure cyclist safety:
For pedestrian safety in subdivisions:
Large parking areas must incorporate:
If you're planning new construction or significant alterations:
For existing properties with nonconforming lighting:
For conditional use permits:

Dayton, Ohio
Bock Lighting understands the unique character that makes Banks special. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate communities that value their historical identity while embracing thoughtful modernization.
We share Banks' commitment to reducing light pollution and preserving the natural night sky that has been part of this community's experience since its founding. Our expertise in downward-directed, shielded lighting solutions aligns perfectly with Banks' regulations.
As a resource for property owners and businesses, we're committed to helping communities maintain their distinctive character through appropriate lighting choices. We understand that in a small town with deep historical roots, every detail matters – including how we light our spaces after dark.
Our team stays current with lighting regulations across the Pacific Northwest, allowing us to provide guidance that helps maintain Banks' balance of safety, functionality, and small-town charm.
Banks' lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its small-town character while ensuring safety and functionality. By requiring downward-directed lighting, limiting sign illumination, and preventing light trespass, the city maintains its rural charm and protects its night sky.
For property owners and businesses, understanding these regulations is essential for both compliance and contributing to the community's vision. Whether you're installing new lighting or modifying existing fixtures, keeping these guidelines in mind will help preserve what makes Banks special for generations to come.