Lighting Regulations in Clarkston, Utah: Preserving Rural Character & Night Skies

Introduction

Nestled in Utah's picturesque Cache Valley, Clarkston has maintained its distinctive rural character since its establishment in 1864. Named after Israel J. Clark, the first bishop of the settlement, this historic community has carefully preserved its pioneer heritage through thoughtful municipal regulations.

Clarkston's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to maintaining the charm of a traditional rural settlement. With origins dating back to when settlers moved west of the Bear River at Brigham Young's encouragement, the town's regulations aim to preserve both its historical ambiance and the natural beauty of its night skies.

The lighting regulations in Clarkston are straightforward yet effective, designed to balance modern needs with the town's historical character and rural setting.

Quick Reference Guide to Clarkston's Lighting Requirements

For residents and business owners seeking immediate guidance, here are the key lighting regulations in Clarkston:

• Residential Light Containment: Light must not exceed levels normally associated with residential neighborhoods or pass beyond property boundaries
• Parking Lot Lighting: Must be positioned to direct light away from adjoining residential properties
• Sign Illumination:
• Business signs in zone C: Indirect neon illumination allowed
• Nameplate signs: Indirect illumination only
• Property signs: No illumination permitted
• All signs (except business signs): Indirect lighting only with light source not visible from the street
• Prohibited Lighting: Animated, flashing, or intermittent signs are not allowed in any zone
• Residential Protection: Direct rays of light may not penetrate residential properties

Residential Lighting Standards

Light Trespass Restrictions

Clarkston's code clearly states that no light in excess of what's normally associated with a residential neighborhood shall pass beyond the premises. This straightforward requirement helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere of residential areas while preserving the visibility of night skies.

Understanding "Normal" Residential Lighting

While the code doesn't define specific measurements for "normal" residential lighting, this typically refers to:

• Modest porch and entry lighting
• Subtle landscape lighting
• Security lighting that doesn't flood neighboring properties
• Soft pathway lighting

Practical Applications

When installing exterior lighting at your Clarkston home, position fixtures to direct light downward and inward toward your property. Consider using shields on security lights and choose warm-toned bulbs with appropriate brightness for residential areas.

Commercial Lighting Requirements

Parking Area Illumination

For businesses with parking areas, Clarkston's regulations are clear: any lights used to illuminate parking lots must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining premises in residential zones.

Best Practices for Compliance

To ensure your commercial property meets these requirements:

• Use directional fixtures that aim light downward
• Install proper shielding to prevent light spillover
• Position lights to illuminate only your property
• Consider the height and angle of lighting fixtures to minimize impact on neighboring properties

Sign Illumination Standards

Permitted Illumination Types

Clarkston's sign regulations vary by sign type and zone:

• Business Signs (Zone C): May use indirect neon illumination
• Nameplate Signs (All Zones): Limited to indirect illumination
• Property Signs (All Zones): No illumination permitted

Important Restrictions

The code specifically states that animated, flashing or intermittent signs are not allowed in any zone within Clarkston. This prohibition helps maintain the town's traditional aesthetic and prevents distracting lighting displays.

Additional Sign Lighting Requirements

Further regulations specify:

• Most signs require indirect lighting: All signs (except business signs) must use indirect illumination
• Light source visibility: The source of illumination must not be visible from the street
• Residential protection: Direct rays of light are not permitted to penetrate properties in residential zones

Electrical Installation Requirements

Permit Requirements

Clarkston requires permits for electrical modifications:

• A permit is required before making changes or alterations to any electrical wiring, fixtures, appliances, or apparatus after initial inspection
• The municipal wiring inspector must be notified before proceeding with such changes

Interference Prevention

The town also addresses electrical installations that might create disturbances:

• Installations that interfere with normal radio or TV reception beyond the immediate vicinity are declared a nuisance
• Owners must install and maintain electrical systems to avoid such interference
• Proper grounding, connections, condensers, resistors, and live chokes must be employed

Supporting Clarkston's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Clarkston's commitment to preserving its historical character while meeting modern lighting needs. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Clarkston's values regarding thoughtful illumination that respects community character.

We recognize that Clarkston's lighting regulations reflect its unique identity as a historic rural settlement in Cache Valley. Our experience with similar communities has shown us the importance of balancing safety and functionality with the preservation of traditional aesthetics and dark skies.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities like Clarkston, helping property owners understand how to implement lighting that complies with local regulations while honoring the town's pioneer heritage. Our commitment extends beyond products to supporting the distinctive character that makes communities like Clarkston special.

We appreciate the balance Clarkston seeks between modern lighting needs and the preservation of its rural charm, and we're dedicated to supporting these community values through responsible lighting practices.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Tips

To ensure your property's lighting aligns with Clarkston's regulations:

• Contain light within property boundaries: Direct fixtures downward and inward
• Choose appropriate brightness: Avoid overly bright lights, particularly in residential areas
• Use shielding where needed: Prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties
• Select compliant sign lighting: Ensure your business signage meets the specific illumination requirements
• Obtain necessary permits: Remember to secure permits for electrical modifications

The Spirit Behind the Regulations

Clarkston's lighting requirements reflect the community's values:

• Preserving the town's historic rural character
• Protecting the visibility of night skies
• Respecting neighbors' privacy and comfort
• Maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of a small community

Conclusion

Clarkston's lighting regulations, while not extensive, effectively balance the need for modern illumination with the preservation of the town's historic character and rural setting. By focusing on basic principles like containing light within property boundaries and using appropriate illumination for signs, these regulations help maintain the town's charming atmosphere.

For property owners, understanding these regulations is key to contributing positively to Clarkston's community vision. By following these guidelines, residents and businesses can help preserve the special character of this historic settlement while meeting their practical lighting needs.

The town's approach to lighting reflects its broader commitment to honoring its pioneer heritage while accommodating contemporary requirements—a thoughtful balance that has helped Clarkston maintain its distinctive identity since 1864.