Lighting Regulations in Hollister, Idaho: A Guide to Limited Requirements in a Historic Rural Community

Introduction

Nestled in Twin Falls County, Hollister, Idaho carries a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after Madison E. Hollister, a former Justice of the Idaho Territorial Supreme Court, this small community's development was closely tied to the ambitious Salmon River irrigation project. The town's character reflects its agricultural roots and the practical spirit of its early settlers who faced challenges like water leakage through lava rock during irrigation efforts.

In communities like Hollister, lighting regulations often reflect a balance between preserving rural character and ensuring modern safety needs. While many small towns have minimal lighting requirements, understanding what does exist is important for property owners and developers.

Quick Reference Guide

Based on the available building code information for Hollister, Idaho, lighting regulations are notably limited:

• Security Measures: Plans must indicate security measures including lighting when applicable
• Telecommunication Towers: These structures shall not be artificially lighted unless required by the FAA or other regulatory authorities
• No Comprehensive Lighting Code: Unlike larger municipalities, Hollister does not appear to have extensive lighting regulations in its building code

Understanding Hollister's Limited Lighting Requirements

Security Lighting Considerations

The building code makes a brief reference to lighting in the context of security measures. Specifically, plans submitted for certain developments must indicate security measures, which can include:

• Access control
• Fencing
• Lighting arrangements
• Other security-related elements

While the code doesn't specify detailed requirements for security lighting, this mention acknowledges the role lighting plays in creating safe environments.

Telecommunication Tower Lighting Restrictions

The most specific lighting regulation found in Hollister's building code pertains to telecommunication towers:

• Default Requirement: Telecommunication towers shall not be artificially lighted
• Exception: Lighting is permitted only when required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or other applicable regulatory authorities

This restriction likely aims to minimize light pollution in Hollister's rural setting while ensuring compliance with federal safety standards for tall structures.

What Property Owners Should Know

Working Within Limited Guidelines

The minimal lighting regulations in Hollister's building code provide property owners with considerable flexibility. However, this doesn't mean lighting should be implemented without consideration for:

• Neighboring properties
• Community character
• Energy efficiency
• Safety needs

Best Practices to Consider

In the absence of detailed local regulations, property owners might consider following general best practices for exterior lighting:

• Directional Lighting: Aim lights downward to reduce light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Appropriate Brightness: Choose lighting that provides adequate illumination without excessive glare
• Timers and Motion Sensors: Consider automated systems that provide light only when needed
• Warm Color Temperatures: In historic or residential areas, warmer light (2700-3000K) often feels more appropriate than cooler, bluish light

Planning for Development

When submitting plans that include security measures, remember that lighting arrangements should be clearly indicated as mentioned in the building code. While specific requirements aren't detailed, thoughtful lighting design demonstrates consideration for community standards.

Supporting Hollister's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the unique character of small communities like Hollister. With roots dating back to 1918, our Northeast Ohio manufacturing heritage gives us appreciation for communities that value their historical identity while addressing modern needs.

We recognize that Hollister's limited lighting regulations reflect its rural character and practical approach to development. Our experience working with communities of various sizes helps us understand how lighting can enhance safety and functionality while respecting local character.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting decisions in communities with minimal regulations. We believe in supporting the distinctive character of each community we serve, offering expertise that aligns with local values and needs.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices resonates with communities like Hollister, where preservation of rural character and night skies remains important. We focus on helping communities maintain their unique identity through thoughtful lighting approaches.

Telecommunication Tower Lighting: Federal Requirements

When considering the specific regulation about telecommunication tower lighting, it's worth understanding the federal context:

FAA Requirements

The Federal Aviation Administration may require lighting on towers that:

• Exceed certain heights (typically 200 feet above ground level)
• Are located near airports or flight paths
• Could pose hazards to air navigation

Types of Required Lighting

When the FAA does require lighting, it typically specifies:

• Red obstruction lights for nighttime
• White strobe lights for daytime (in some cases)
• Specific flash patterns and intensities

Compliance Process

Tower developers must:

• File with the FAA before construction
• Receive a determination regarding lighting requirements
• Implement any required lighting according to FAA specifications

Conclusion

Hollister, Idaho's building code contains minimal specific lighting regulations, primarily addressing security planning requirements and restrictions on telecommunication tower lighting. This limited regulatory approach reflects the community's rural character and practical values.

For property owners and developers, this means greater flexibility but also greater responsibility to implement lighting that respects neighboring properties and community character. When planning developments that include lighting elements, particularly for security purposes, clear documentation in submitted plans remains important.

While specific technical requirements are few, thoughtful lighting choices can help maintain Hollister's distinctive character while meeting modern needs for safety and functionality. By understanding these limited regulations and considering community context, property owners can make lighting decisions that enhance both their properties and the community as a whole.