Lighting Regulations in Corinne, Utah: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Safety Standards

Introduction

Nestled in Box Elder County, the city of Corinne, Utah carries a unique historical legacy that shapes its modern approach to urban planning. Founded in 1869 by former Union Army officers and non-Mormon merchants from Salt Lake City, Corinne once earned colorful nicknames like the "City of the Ungodly" and "Little Chicago of the West" due to its lively atmosphere and numerous saloons.

Today, this small city spans approximately 3.9 square miles and maintains a careful balance between preserving its historical character and meeting modern needs. This balance is clearly reflected in Corinne's thoughtful approach to outdoor lighting regulations, which aim to enhance safety and security while preventing light pollution that would diminish the town's distinctive character.

Quick Reference Guide to Corinne's Lighting Regulations

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting requirements to know:

• Maximum Light Heights:
• General lighting: 25 feet maximum
• Roadway lighting: 34 feet maximum
• Parking area lighting: 12-20 feet (varies by parking lot size)
• Light Distribution Requirements:
• Lights over 1,800 lumens must not emit light above horizontal plane
• Flood/spot lights over 900 lumens must be properly shielded
• No direct light allowed on neighboring properties
• Parking Area Requirements:
• Maximum average illumination: 2 foot-candles with 4:1 uniformity ratio
• Only low or high pressure sodium light sources for parking areas with 5+ spaces
• Light poles 12-16 feet: maximum 50 watts per fixture or 105 watts per pole
• Light poles 18-20 feet: maximum 75 watts per fixture or 150 watts per pole
• Sign Lighting:
• Only hooded spot lighting allowed (no back-lit signs)
• Sign lighting fixtures must mount on top of structure
• Dark backgrounds with light lettering preferred

General Outdoor Lighting Provisions

Purpose of Lighting Ordinance

Corinne's lighting ordinance recognizes that outdoor lighting at night benefits everyone by increasing safety, enhancing the town's nighttime character, and providing security. However, the city also acknowledges that powerful modern lighting technologies can create excessive glare, light trespass, and energy waste if not properly regulated.

Scope and Applicability

All exterior outdoor lighting installed in any zone of Corinne must conform to the city's lighting requirements. These regulations apply to new installations, and in many cases, to modifications of existing lighting.

Light Fixture Requirements

The ordinance provides specific technical requirements for different types of lighting:

• For lights with lamps rated over 1,800 lumens:
• Must not emit direct light above a horizontal plane
• Must be mounted at height ≤ 3+(D/3) feet, where D is distance to nearest property boundary
• Cannot exceed 25 feet maximum height
• For flood/spot lights over 900 lumens:
• Same restrictions as above
• For smaller lights (≤1,800 lumens or flood/spot lights ≤900 lumens):
• Fewer restrictions on mounting heights and distribution
• Must be redirected if causing direct light toward residential buildings or creating glare for motorists

Specific Lighting Applications

Parking Area Lighting

Corinne provides detailed specifications for parking area lighting to ensure safety while minimizing light pollution:

Light Source and Fixture Requirements

• Only low or high pressure sodium light sources allowed for parking areas with 5+ spaces
• Fixtures affixed to buildings for lighting parking areas are prohibited
• Light must be fully shielded with no distribution above horizontal plane

Light Level Requirements

• Maximum average: 2 foot-candles with 4:1 uniformity ratio over the site

Pole Height and Wattage Specifications

• Height range: 12-20 feet (higher poles only allowed for larger parking areas)
• For 12-16 foot poles: Maximum 50 watts per fixture or 105 watts per pole
• For 18-20 foot poles: Maximum 75 watts per fixture or 150 watts per pole
• Poles over 16 feet appropriate only for parking areas exceeding 200 stalls and not near residential areas

Design Requirements

• Wood fixtures and wooden poles are encouraged (naturally stained or painted in earth tones)
• Metal fixtures/poles should be black, dark brown, or earth tone
• Pole bases must be treated with paint, stain, stucco, or decorative cover
• Bases should be placed within landscape areas when possible

Sign Lighting Requirements

Allowed Methods and Mounting

• Only hooded spot lighting is allowed (back-lit signs prohibited)
• Lighting fixtures must be mounted on top of sign structure (bottom-mounted prohibited)
• Wall signs: No sign, light box, or structural part may project more than 18 inches from building face

Special Provisions for Translucent Signs

• Signs constructed of translucent materials and wholly illuminated from within don't require shielding
• Dark backgrounds with light lettering/symbols preferred
• If not conforming to dark background preference, total lamp wattage per property must be less than 41 watts

Recreational and Event Lighting

Sports Facility Lighting

For outdoor recreational facilities (sports fields, courts, etc.):

• All fixtures must be fully shielded with sharp cutoff capability
• Prohibited after 11:00 PM except to conclude scheduled events in progress

Temporary Event Lighting

The planning commission may permit nonconforming temporary outdoor lighting after considering:

• Public/private benefits of the temporary lighting
• Potential annoyance or safety issues
• Duration of the temporary nonconforming lighting

A detailed description must be submitted for review at a planning commission meeting.

Prohibited and Exempted Lighting

Prohibited Lighting Types

• Laser source light or similar high-intensity light for outdoor advertising/entertainment (when projected above horizontal)
• Flashing, blinking, intermittent or moving lights

Exemptions

The following lighting types are exempt from the requirements:

• Holiday lighting
• Temporary emergency lighting used by law enforcement, fire department, or other emergency services
• Hazard warning lights required by federal regulatory agencies (must be red and meet minimum requirements)

Compliance and Enforcement

New Construction and Modifications

• All new outdoor lighting must comply with regulations
• Existing nonconforming fixtures must be brought into compliance when:
• Modifications require a building permit
• Fixtures are replaced or moved

Light Trespass and Glare

• No exterior lighting may shine directly into adjoining properties
• Lights causing disability glare to motorists/cyclists must be shielded or redirected within 90 days of notification

Permit and Application Requirements

For permit applications involving outdoor lighting, applicants must submit:

• Plans showing location and type of lighting fixtures
• Descriptions of illuminating devices (manufacturer catalog cuts, drawings)
• Photometric data showing angle of cutoff or light emissions
• Point-by-point light plans may be required to demonstrate adequate illumination

Supporting Corinne's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Corinne's commitment to preserving historical character while meeting modern safety and efficiency needs. As a company with deep understanding of regional architectural styles, Bock appreciates Corinne's thoughtful approach to balancing functional lighting with historical aesthetics.

Corinne's regulations show a clear commitment to minimizing light pollution while ensuring adequate illumination for safety. This balancing act requires knowledge of both traditional and modern lighting solutions - an area where Bock's expertise can serve as a valuable community resource.

With experience in projects that respect community character and local regulations, Bock understands the importance of lighting that enhances rather than detracts from Corinne's historical ambiance. The company's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns perfectly with Corinne's vision for appropriate illumination that serves the community while preserving its unique character.

Conclusion

Corinne's lighting regulations reflect the city's dedication to maintaining its historical character while providing safe, functional lighting for residents and businesses. By carefully controlling light levels, fixture types, and light distribution, the city creates an environment that balances modern needs with respect for the town's unique heritage.

Property owners planning lighting installations or modifications should carefully review these requirements and consult with Corinne's planning department early in the process. With thoughtful planning, lighting can enhance safety, security, and aesthetics while preserving the distinctive character that makes Corinne special.

Remember that regulations may be updated periodically, so always check with the city for the most current requirements before beginning any lighting project.