Lighting Regulations in Canby, Oregon: Balancing Heritage, Safety, and Environmental Stewardship

Introduction: Canby's Lighting Philosophy

Canby, Oregon, originally known as Baker Prairie, traces its roots back to 1857, making it one of Oregon's oldest communities. Named after Civil War Union General Edward R.S. Canby and incorporated in 1893, this Clackamas County city has carefully balanced growth with preservation of its historical character.

With its population of approximately 18,000 residents, Canby has developed comprehensive outdoor lighting standards that reflect its commitment to maintaining community character while ensuring safety and functionality. These regulations are designed to prevent light pollution, minimize glare, and create a cohesive visual environment that honors Canby's architectural heritage while meeting modern needs.

Quick Reference Guide to Canby's Lighting Regulations

• Lighting Zones: Canby uses two lighting zones:
• LZ 1: Residential districts (R-1, R-1.5, and R-2)
• LZ 2: All other zoning districts (commercial, industrial, etc.)
• Key Technical Requirements:
• All outdoor lighting must be shielded to prevent direct line of sight to light source
• Maximum lumens vary by zone and shielding type
• Mounting height limited to 40% of horizontal distance to property line
• Pedestrian ways require minimum three foot-candles illumination
• Light trespass onto neighboring properties is prohibited
• Required Documentation:
• Lighting plans required with development/building permit applications
• Photometric plans required for all streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian ways

Understanding Canby's Lighting Zones

Residential Areas (LZ 1)

Canby's residential zoning districts fall under Lighting Zone One (LZ 1), which features lower ambient illumination standards. This zone is designed to preserve the peaceful character of residential neighborhoods while providing necessary illumination for safety.

LZ 1 allows:

• Fully shielded fixtures: 2,600 lumens or less
• Shielded fixtures: 800 lumens or less
• Unshielded: Only low voltage landscape lighting and temporary holiday lighting
• Maximum mounting heights: 35 feet for driveways/parking, 18 feet for walkways

Commercial and Industrial Areas (LZ 2)

All non-residential areas fall under Lighting Zone Two (LZ 2), accommodating the higher illumination needs of commercial and industrial activities.

LZ 2 allows:

• Fully shielded fixtures: 7,800 lumens or less
• Shielded fixtures: 1,600 lumens or less
• Partly shielded fixtures: 800 lumens or less
• Unshielded: Landscape and facade lighting up to 1,600 lumens; ornamental lights up to 800 lumens
• Maximum mounting heights: 37.5 feet for driveways/parking, 18 feet for walkways

Technical Specifications for Common Lighting Applications

Exterior Building Lighting

Building-mounted lighting in Canby must comply with several technical requirements:

• Cannot exceed a height greater than 4 feet above the tallest part of the building
• For single-family residences, lighting cannot exceed the height of the eave
• For buildings less than 40 feet from property lines, luminaires mounted to facades or canopy undersides must be 16 feet or less

Facade Lighting

Facade lighting receives special consideration in Canby's regulations:

• May be mounted at any height equal to or less than the total height of the structure
• Light must be restricted to the facade surface only
• Margins of the facade cannot be illuminated
• Light trespass onto neighboring properties is prohibited

Canopy Lighting

For gas stations, drive-throughs, and other structures with canopies:

• All canopy lighting must be fully shielded
• Indirect upward light is permitted under opaque canopies provided that:
• No lamp or vertical element of a lens/diffuser is visible beyond the canopy
• No direct upward light is emitted beyond the opaque canopy

Sign Lighting

Canby maintains distinct regulations for sign illumination:

• External illumination (both direct and indirect) is allowed if light sources are shielded
• Internal illumination is permitted
• Illumination must not flash, undulate, pulse, or portray explosions/fireworks
• Brightness cannot cause discomfort or visual disability
• Temporary signs cannot be internally illuminated (with limited exceptions)

What Property Owners Should Know

When Do These Regulations Apply?

Canby's lighting standards apply to:

• New land uses, developments, buildings, and structures requiring a building permit
• Building additions or modifications of 50% or greater (entire property must comply)
• Minor additions or modifications (less than 50%) must meet shielding and lamp type requirements for new lighting only

Documentation Requirements

When submitting applications, property owners must include:

• Lighting plan showing location of all buildings, parking, and pedestrian areas
• Location and height of all proposed and existing luminaires
• Luminaire details including lumens, shielding information, and manufacturer specifications
• Control descriptions (timers, motion sensors, etc.)

Exemptions and Special Cases

Certain lighting applications are exempt from these requirements:

• Code-required exit signs and lighting for stairs/ramps
• Swimming pools and water features governed by the National Electrical Code
• Temporary lighting for theatrical and performance events
• Interior lighting
• Emergency maintenance lighting

Supporting Canby's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with manufacturing roots dating back to 1918, shares Canby's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation. As a company that understands the importance of community character, Bock Lighting appreciates Canby's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations.

With deep expertise in architectural lighting, Bock can serve as a resource for Canby property owners navigating these regulations. The company's experience with projects that respect community character aligns well with Canby's efforts to maintain its distinctive identity while ensuring safety and functionality.

Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices mirrors Canby's goal of minimizing light pollution while providing adequate illumination for safety and enjoyment. By understanding both the technical requirements and the community values behind them, Bock can help support Canby's lighting vision.

Conclusion

Canby's lighting regulations reflect its broader community values of historical preservation, safety, and environmental stewardship. By establishing clear standards for different lighting zones and applications, the city maintains its distinctive character while meeting modern needs.

Property owners and developers who understand these requirements can create lighting designs that not only comply with regulations but also contribute positively to Canby's visual environment. With careful attention to shielding, mounting height, and light levels, lighting can enhance both the functionality and beauty of this historic Oregon community.

For specific questions about Canby's lighting regulations, contact the Canby Planning Department or consult the full text of Chapter 16.43 (Outdoor Lighting Standards) in the Canby Municipal Code.