Lighting Regulations in Harrison, Idaho: Preserving Historic Character While Meeting Modern Needs

Introduction

Nestled along the scenic Coeur d'Alene River, Harrison, Idaho boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1891. This charming small city has carefully preserved its historical character, particularly in the Harrison Commercial Historic District, which was largely rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1917.

Harrison's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to maintaining the town's quaint, historical ambiance while accommodating contemporary needs. These regulations aim to balance safety and functionality with preservation of the night sky and the city's distinctive character.

Quick Reference Guide: Harrison Lighting Regulations

• Public Lighting System: Property owners pay a $0.75 monthly fee per parcel
• Sign Illumination: Constant intensity required; no flashing, intermittent, or moving lights
• Parking Areas: Must be properly illuminated during non-daylight hours with light directed away from adjoining properties
• Manufacturing Districts: No direct or reflected glare permitted beyond district boundaries
• Home Occupations: Only non-illuminated signs permitted
• Tree Placement: Specific distance requirements from streetlights based on tree size

Public Lighting Systems and Fees

Monthly Service Charges

Harrison maintains a public lighting system that illuminates streets, sidewalks, walkways, and bike paths throughout the city. To support this infrastructure:

• All owners and occupants of improved real property are subject to service charges
• The initial street lighting charge is $0.75 per month per parcel
• These charges become a lien against the property if unpaid

Cost Coverage and Distribution

The public lighting charges collected are designed to cover several aspects of the system:

• Lease agreements with lighting companies
• Electrical energy costs
• Billing expenses
• Replacement costs
• Labor and materials for system maintenance

Harrison may distribute these costs based on "lighting intensity zones" as determined by the city council, reflecting the proportionate benefit received by properties in different areas.

Sign Illumination Requirements

Constant Intensity Standards

Harrison's regulations are quite specific regarding illuminated signs:

• All illuminated signs must emit light of constant intensity
• No flashing, intermittent, rotating, or moving lights are permitted
• Light beams must not be directed toward public thoroughfares
• Light must not cause glare or reflection that could create traffic hazards

Restrictions on Moving Elements

To maintain the city's historic character and prevent visual distractions:

• Signs cannot employ revolving, rotating, whirling, spinning, or other motion elements
• Home occupations are limited to one non-illuminated sign not exceeding 4 square feet

These restrictions help preserve the traditional aesthetic of Harrison while ensuring safety for motorists and pedestrians.

Parking Area Illumination

Safety and Consideration Requirements

Harrison requires that any parking area intended for use during non-daylight hours be properly illuminated to avoid accidents. However, this illumination must be thoughtfully implemented:

• Lights must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining property
• The focus is on preventing light trespass while maintaining safety
• These regulations balance the need for security with consideration for neighbors

Manufacturing Districts and Light Control

Glare Limitations

In manufacturing districts, Harrison imposes specific limitations on light impacts:

• No direct or reflected glare is permitted beyond manufacturing district boundaries
• The Heavy Manufacturing (HM) district acknowledges light pollution as a potential nuisance
• Operations in these districts must contain light impacts within district boundaries

Special Use Considerations

Applications for special use permits must include evaluations of potential glare effects on adjoining properties, highlighting Harrison's commitment to minimizing light-related nuisances.

Streetlights and Urban Forestry

Tree Placement Requirements

Harrison has established minimum distance requirements between trees and streetlights:

• Small trees: Must be at least 15 feet from streetlights
• Medium trees: Must be at least 25 feet from streetlights
• Large trees: Must be at least 35 feet from streetlights

These specifications help ensure that tree growth doesn't interfere with effective street illumination while still maintaining Harrison's green character.

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Essentials

If you own property in Harrison, understanding these lighting regulations helps ensure compliance:

• Be aware of monthly public lighting charges that appear on your bill
• When installing parking lot lighting, direct illumination away from neighboring properties
• For businesses with signage, ensure any illumination is of constant intensity
• If planting trees, observe required distances from streetlights
• For home-based businesses, remember that only non-illuminated signs are permitted

Planning for Projects

When planning construction or renovation:

• Consider potential glare impacts on neighboring properties
• Include lighting considerations in special use permit applications
• Remember that improperly directed glare creating nuisances or safety hazards may violate city regulations

Supporting Harrison's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, shares Harrison's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing practical lighting solutions. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with deep understanding of historic communities, we appreciate Harrison's careful balance of safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

Our expertise in architectural lighting specifically addresses the needs of communities like Harrison that value their historic districts and traditional ambiance. We understand the importance of lighting that enhances rather than detracts from a town's unique character.

Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Harrison's vision for maintaining its charming small-town atmosphere. We serve as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations and historic preservation requirements.

Conclusion

Harrison's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. From public lighting systems to sign illumination requirements, these regulations help maintain the city's distinctive charm.

While Harrison's lighting code is not as extensive as those in some larger municipalities, its provisions effectively address key concerns including glare prevention, appropriate sign illumination, and parking area safety.

Understanding and following these regulations helps property owners contribute to Harrison's vision of a well-lit community that honors its historic roots while meeting contemporary needs. Through thoughtful lighting choices, residents and businesses can help preserve the special character that makes Harrison, Idaho such a beloved destination.