Lighting Regulations in Cascade, Idaho: Preserving Dark Skies in a Rural Mountain Community

Introduction: Why Dark Sky Preservation Matters in Cascade

Nestled in Valley County, Cascade, Idaho embraces its rural mountain character with a thoughtful approach to nighttime lighting. Established in the early 20th century, this small city has evolved from its origins as a lumber mill town while maintaining a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

The closure of the significant Boise Cascade sawmill in 2001 marked a turning point for the community, which has since embraced its scenic mountain setting and recreational opportunities. This shift in identity is reflected in the city's comprehensive outdoor lighting regulations.

Cascade's lighting ordinance demonstrates the community's commitment to preserving the visibility of star-filled night skies, protecting nocturnal wildlife, and maintaining the rural character that makes this mountain town special – all while ensuring sufficient lighting for safety and security.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Before diving into specifics, here are the most critical lighting regulations in Cascade:

• Maximum Height: Light fixtures cannot exceed 30 feet in height
• Shielding Required: All lighting must be hooded or shielded in a downward direction
• Color Temperature: LED lighting cannot exceed 3,000 Kelvin (warm light)
• Brightness Equivalent: Cannot exceed the brightness of a 100W halogen bulb
• Light Trespass: No light may spill onto neighboring properties
• Sky Glow: Lighting must not illuminate the sky or reflect off water bodies
• Mercury Vapor: Installation of mercury vapor lamps is prohibited
• Internal Sign Lighting: Internally lit signs are prohibited

The City of Cascade Outdoor Nighttime Lighting Ordinance

Purpose and Intent

The Cascade lighting ordinance (Chapter 4, "Outdoor Nighttime Lighting") explicitly states its purpose is to:

• Maintain Cascade's rural character
• Preserve visibility of nighttime skies
• Minimize impact on nocturnal wildlife
• Encourage energy efficiency
• Prevent glare from intruding on neighboring properties
• Eliminate hazards for pedestrians and drivers

Scope and Application

The regulations apply to all exterior outdoor lighting installed after the ordinance's effective date, including:

• Buildings and structures
• Recreational areas
• Parking lot lighting
• Landscape lighting
• Signage
• Commercial properties
• Residential properties

Technical Requirements for Property Owners

Fixture Design and Installation

All exterior lighting in Cascade must meet these technical specifications:

• Height Limitations:
• Maximum height of 30 feet for any light fixture
• Recreational facilities exempt from height restrictions while in use
• Shielding Requirements:
• All lighting must be hooded or shielded downward
• Must prevent light trespass onto adjacent properties
• Fully shielded means no light emitted above horizontal plane
• Unshielded lights can be mitigated by porches, overhangs, and walls
• Opaque glass can shield lights if bulb outline isn't visible
• Light Color and Intensity:
• LED lighting color cannot exceed 3,000 Kelvin (warm white)
• Cannot exceed brightness of 100W halogen equivalent
• Streetlights must be high-pressure sodium, low-pressure sodium, LED, or metal halide

Light Trespass Prevention

Cascade places strong emphasis on preventing unwanted light spread:

• Lighting cannot direct light onto adjacent properties
• Light should not illuminate the sky
• Lighting should not reflect off adjacent water bodies
• Canopy lights (such as service station lighting) must be fully recessed or shielded
• External sign lighting must be placed and shielded to direct illumination at the sign only

Sensor and Timer Requirements

The city encourages efficient use of lighting:

• Sensor-activated lights must:
• Be positioned to prevent glare onto other properties
• Turn off within 5 minutes after activation ceases
• Not be triggered by activity off the property
• Lights on timers are encouraged
• All non-essential exterior lighting should be turned off after business hours

Special Considerations and Exemptions

Sign Lighting Regulations

Signs have specific lighting requirements in Cascade:

• External lighting must be placed above or below the sign and shielded
• Light must be directed at the sign and not visible from adjacent properties
• Sign lighting cannot reflect or glare beyond the sign face
• Internally lit signs are prohibited

Exemptions and Special Cases

Several existing lighting installations are exempt:

• Existing lighting installed before ordinance is encouraged but not required to conform
• Specifically listed businesses with existing lighted signs (grandfathered)
• Unshielded globe lighting at Ashley Inn, Water's Edge, and Lake Front Bar and Grill
• Seasonal holiday lighting allowed November 15 to February 15 (must be off by 11:00 PM)
• Temporary lighting for property maintenance (snow plowing)
• Uplighting allowed for U.S. flags (flags encouraged to be taken down at sunset)
• Lights on trees and lamp-posts on Main Street between Lake Cascade Parkway and Mill Street

Prohibited Lighting Types

The following lighting types are not permitted:

• Mercury vapor lamps
• Flashing or intermittent lights
• Lights of changing intensity
• Moving lights
• Internally illuminated signs

Supporting Cascade's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting: Understanding Rural Community Needs

At Bock Lighting, we appreciate Cascade's commitment to preserving its rural mountain character while ensuring safe and functional lighting. With roots dating back to 1918, we understand how proper lighting can enhance community character while respecting dark sky initiatives.

We share Cascade's values regarding responsible lighting that minimizes light pollution while providing the illumination needed for safety and functionality. Our expertise in regional architectural styles and lighting needs makes us a valuable resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations.

Bock Lighting is committed to helping communities like Cascade maintain their distinctive character through thoughtful lighting solutions that comply with local regulations while enhancing the beauty of mountain architecture. We can help property owners understand concepts like color temperature, shielding requirements, and techniques to minimize light trespass.

As a partner in sustainable and responsible lighting practices, we're available to help Cascade property owners understand and implement lighting that respects the community's vision for preserving its beautiful night skies.

Applications and Compliance

When Lighting Plans Are Required

Lighting plans must be submitted with applications for:

• Conditional use permits
• Planned unit developments
• Subdivision approvals
• Applicable sign permits
• Building permits

These plans must show:

• Location of all lighting fixtures
• Type of fixtures
• Height of fixtures

Review Process

Lighting plans undergo review by appropriate authorities:

• Planning and Zoning Administrator: Reviews lighting for conditional use permits, planned unit developments, and subdivision approvals
• Building Inspector: Reviews lighting for building permits and applicable sign permits
• Administrative Variance: May be granted for exterior temporary lighting for construction or commercial purposes

Conclusion

Cascade's lighting regulations reflect the community's commitment to preserving its rural mountain character while providing for safety and functionality. By carefully regulating outdoor lighting, Cascade protects its star-filled night skies, reduces impacts on wildlife, prevents light trespass, and maintains the quality that makes this mountain community special.

Property owners planning new construction or modifications should familiarize themselves with these requirements early in their planning process. By working within these guidelines, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Cascade's unique character and natural beauty for future generations.

For specific questions about Cascade's lighting requirements, property owners should contact the City of Cascade Planning and Zoning Department directly to ensure compliance with current regulations.