Lighting Regulations in Colorado Springs, Colorado: Balancing Urban Development with Natural Beauty

Introduction: The City of Sunshine and its Lighting Philosophy

Nestled at the base of majestic Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs was envisioned by its founder, General William Jackson Palmer, as a resort destination that would capitalize on the region's natural beauty and healing mineral springs. When Palmer established the city in 1871, he meticulously planned broad streets and imported 10,000 trees, creating a foundation for a community that values its scenic heritage.

This appreciation for natural beauty directly influences Colorado Springs' approach to lighting regulations today. As a city once known as a health resort that attracted visitors for its clean air and therapeutic climate, Colorado Springs continues to balance urban development with preservation of its natural ambiance – including the night sky.

Quick Reference Guide to Colorado Springs Lighting Regulations

Key Requirements:

• Light Trespass Limit: Maximum 1 footcandle at any property line (except those adjacent to public streets)
• Efficiency Requirement: All exterior fixtures must generate at least 80 lumens per watt
• Prohibited Lighting: High pressure sodium lights not permitted for site lighting
• Height Restrictions:
• Residential zones: 20 feet maximum
• Mixed-use zones: 35 feet maximum
• Other zones: 50 feet maximum
• Shielding: Full cutoff fixtures required in most applications

General Lighting Standards

Purpose and Applicability

Colorado Springs' lighting regulations (Part 7.4.12) are designed to minimize light pollution, glare, and light trespass while maintaining nighttime safety and security. These standards apply to:

• New building construction requiring a Development Plan
• Changes in primary property use
• Expansions of gross floor area, dwelling units, or parking spaces by 50% or more

Light Trespass and Efficiency

The city takes a measured approach to balancing visibility with environmental considerations:

• Light Trespass: All lighting fixtures must be installed so that light trespass from any property line (except those adjacent to a public street) shall not exceed one footcandle at the property line
• Efficiency Standards: All exterior light fixtures must generate at least 80 lumens per watt of energy consumed
• Measurement Methods: Light readings are taken from the midpoint of each property line of the subject property with a light meter at three feet above existing grade

Prohibited Lighting Types

In keeping with Colorado Springs' respect for its natural environment, these lighting types are prohibited:

• Laser, strobe, or flashing light sources for outdoor advertising or entertainment
• Tower lighting (unless required by the FAA)
• High pressure sodium lights for any type of site lighting
• Signs displaying flashing or intermittent lights or lights of varying intensity

Height and Fixture Requirements

Maximum Mounting Heights

The city establishes clear height limitations for different areas:

• Residential zone districts: Maximum 20 feet for light poles and wall-mounted fixtures
• Mixed-Use, BP, LI, PF, and PK districts: Maximum 35 feet
• All other zone districts: Maximum 50 feet

Near Residential Properties

To protect the quality of life in residential areas, additional restrictions apply:

• Maximum 20-foot height for light fixtures located within 75 horizontal feet of property lines adjacent to residential zones
• This restriction applies to both multi-family dwellings and non-residential uses

Shielding Requirements

Colorado Springs requires careful control of light direction:

• All lighting fixtures must be fully shielded so the lighting element is not visible from any property line
• Fixtures must be full cutoff type as installed, meaning:
• No more than 10% of emitted lumens detected at angles more than 80 degrees from vertical
• No more than 2.5% of emitted lumens detected at angles more than 90 degrees from vertical
• No light may be cast above the horizontal

Special Lighting Applications

Electronic Message Centers (EMCs)

For electronic signs, additional regulations help prevent light pollution:

• Must include automatic dimmer software or solar sensors to control brightness
• Cannot exceed 500 nits or 0.3 foot-candles between dusk and dawn
• Documentation from the manufacturer must verify compliance with auto-dimming requirements

Interior Commercial Lighting

Certain commercial establishments have specific interior lighting requirements:

• Adult establishments must maintain minimum illumination of 2.0 foot-candles at floor level
• Common areas in multi-unit dwellings require minimum 60-watt bulbs for every 200 square feet
• Exterior stairways require minimum 40-watt illumination at floors, landings, and treads

Flora Growing Operations

For indoor plant cultivation:

• Limited to LED, CFL, fluorescent lighting, or other approved lighting
• All lighting must be listed and labeled
• Growing operations with lighting are restricted to 150 square feet aggregate per premises

Exemptions from Lighting Standards

Colorado Springs recognizes that certain lighting applications have unique needs:

• Temporary outdoor festivals or amusements
• Emergency lighting used by police, fire fighting, or medical personnel
• Public street lighting and private residential street lighting
• Pedestrian lighting between four feet and existing grade
• Building-mounted residential lighting
• Holiday lighting and seasonal decorations using low-intensity lamps

What Property Owners Should Know

When Compliance is Required

If you own property in Colorado Springs, you should be aware that lighting upgrades may be required when:

• Engaging in new construction requiring a Development Plan
• Changing the primary use of your property
• Expanding your building, dwelling units, or parking by 50% or more

Nonconforming Lighting

Existing lighting that no longer meets current standards may be continued, with these limitations:

• The degree of nonconformity cannot be enlarged or increased
• Compliance becomes necessary when activities trigger the lighting standards in Part 7.4.12

Sign Lighting Considerations

When installing illuminated signs:

• Light sources must be shaded and directed to prevent adverse effects on surrounding properties
• Light cannot cause glare for pedestrians or vehicle operators
• Banners cannot be illuminated or constructed of reflective materials
• EMCs require manufacturer specifications for nit rating and dimming method

Supporting Colorado Springs' Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots tracing back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Colorado Springs' commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with preservation of natural beauty. Our understanding of historic communities like Colorado Springs allows us to appreciate the city's unique character – from its distinctive stone buildings dating to the late 19th century to its carefully planned streetscapes.

We recognize how Colorado Springs' regulations reflect the city's original vision as a resort destination where natural beauty takes center stage. As lighting professionals, we support communities in implementing lighting solutions that respect local regulations while enhancing safety and aesthetics.

Bock Lighting's expertise can be a resource for Colorado Springs property owners navigating lighting regulations, with a focus on solutions that preserve the city's character while meeting modern needs. Our commitment to responsible lighting practices aligns with Colorado Springs' goals of minimizing light pollution while maintaining safety and security.

Conclusion

Colorado Springs' lighting regulations reflect the city's appreciation for its natural surroundings and historical character. From General Palmer's careful city planning in 1871 to today's comprehensive lighting standards, the city maintains its commitment to preserving the quality of its environment.

By understanding and following these regulations, property owners can contribute to maintaining Colorado Springs' unique character while ensuring their properties remain safe, functional, and compliant with local standards.