Lighting Regulations in Daggett County, Utah: Preserving Natural Beauty in Utah's Least Populated County

Quick Reference Guide

• Assembly Illumination: Minimum of 5 foot-candles required for nighttime assemblies, without unreasonable light spill beyond boundaries
• Sign Regulations:
• Civic and residential signs may be illuminated but light source must not be visible
• No flashing or intermittent illumination permitted
• Development, real estate, and residential signs cannot be illuminated
• Wind Energy Systems: Limited lighting only as required by FAA, with obstacle collision avoidance systems to minimize light time
• Airport Considerations: No lighting that interferes with airport operations or creates glare for pilots

Introduction: Daggett County's Unique Character

Nestled among red rock canyons, lakes, rivers, and forests, Daggett County stands as Utah's youngest and least populated county. Established in 1917 when it was carved from Uintah County, this scenic region is named after Ellsworth Daggett, who contributed significantly to irrigation development in the area.

The county's approach to regulations, including those governing lighting, reflects its commitment to preserving its stunning natural landscapes and rural character. With an economy traditionally based on livestock, hay production, and electric power generation—and now increasingly tourism—Daggett County's lighting regulations aim to balance public safety with the protection of its magnificent dark skies and scenic vistas.

Understanding Sign Illumination Requirements

Permitted Illumination

The county code presents clear guidelines regarding which signs may be illuminated and how:

• Civic and residential signs may be illuminated, but with two important restrictions:
• The actual source of illumination must not be visible
• No flashing or intermittent illumination is permitted

Prohibited Illumination

Not all signs may feature lighting in Daggett County:

• Development signs cannot be illuminated
• Real estate signs must remain unlit
• Residential signs shall not feature illumination

Business Sign Lighting Restrictions

For commercial enterprises, additional regulations apply:

• Business signs must not feature revolving or flashing elements
• Intermittent lighting is prohibited
• Nonadvertising signs may be lighted but must not feature flashing or intermittent light
• Illuminated signs must not revolve or have moving parts

These restrictions help maintain the county's rural character while still allowing necessary business visibility.

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Assembly Areas

For public gatherings extending into nighttime hours, the county code specifies:

• Minimum illumination of 5 foot-candles throughout the assembly area
• Light must not shine unreasonably beyond the boundaries of the enclosed assembly location

Wind Energy Systems

Daggett County has specific lighting regulations for wind energy installations:

Small & Minor Wind Systems

• Lighting permitted only if required by FAA
• Obstacle collision avoidance systems must be used to minimize lighting time
• Additional lighting limited strictly to safety and operational requirements

Large Wind Energy Systems

• Same FAA-related restrictions apply
• Lighting minimized to reduce visual impact on surrounding areas
• Safety lighting kept to operational minimums

These thoughtful restrictions help preserve Daggett County's dark skies while ensuring aviation safety.

Airport-Adjacent Lighting Considerations

Given the importance of safe aviation operations, special regulations apply to lighting near airports:

• No lighting that makes it difficult for pilots to distinguish between airport lights and others
• Lighting must not cause glare affecting pilots using the airport
• Installations must not impair visibility in the vicinity of the airport
• No lighting that could endanger aircraft during landing or takeoff

These provisions demonstrate Daggett County's commitment to aviation safety while maintaining its rural character.

Planning and Development Requirements

Subdivision Lighting

Both the County Commission and Planning Commission may require:

• Road signs and lighting installations for new subdivisions
• Lighting systems that protect public health, safety, and welfare
• Appropriate illumination solutions for both on-site and off-site improvements

Commercial Development Near Residential Areas

When commercial projects are adjacent to residential zones:

• The Planning Commission will evaluate whether the proposed building location, lighting, parking, or traffic circulation would adversely affect adjacent residential uses
• Lighting design must be compatible with neighboring residential areas

Conditional Use Permits

The Planning Commission establishes specific policies regarding lighting to ensure consistency when issuing conditional use permits, allowing for case-by-case evaluation while maintaining standards.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Considerations

If you're planning new construction or modifications in Daggett County:

• Consult early with the Planning Commission regarding lighting requirements
• For commercial properties, be especially mindful of impacts on neighboring residential areas
• When planning signs, understand whether your specific sign type can be illuminated
• For assemblies requiring nighttime lighting, ensure you meet the 5 foot-candle minimum without light spill

Special Situations

Some developments require additional consideration:

• Wind energy installations have very specific FAA-related lighting requirements
• Properties near airports must be particularly careful about lighting choices
• Commercial developments adjacent to homes need thoughtful lighting design

Supporting Daggett County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Daggett County's commitment to preserving natural character while meeting practical lighting needs. We understand the delicate balance required in communities that value their scenic landscapes and dark skies.

As a manufacturer with extensive experience in rural and environmentally sensitive areas, Bock appreciates Daggett County's approach to lighting regulations that protect its unique natural beauty. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs allows us to serve as an educational resource for residents navigating these requirements.

We're committed to supporting communities like Daggett County with lighting solutions that respect local regulations and enhance safety without compromising environmental values. Our experience with projects that balance practical needs with preservation goals aligns perfectly with Daggett County's vision.

Conclusion

Daggett County's lighting regulations, while not extensive, reflect its character as Utah's least populated county with an emphasis on preserving natural beauty and rural atmosphere. The regulations focus primarily on sign illumination, special use lighting, airport safety, and planning considerations for new developments.

These thoughtful provisions allow the county to maintain its stunning natural landscapes and dark skies while ensuring public safety and supporting economic activity. For property owners, understanding these regulations helps contribute to the continued preservation of what makes Daggett County special – its remarkable natural environment and rural character.

By balancing practical needs with preservation goals, Daggett County demonstrates how even limited lighting regulations can effectively protect a community's unique qualities for generations to come.