Lighting Regulations in Limon, Colorado: Understanding Requirements for the Hub City

Introduction

Nestled in Colorado's eastern plains at an elevation of 5,377 feet, Limon has earned its nickname as the "Hub City" due to its strategic location at the intersection of major transportation routes. Founded in 1888 as a railroad town, Limon's history is deeply intertwined with transportation and commerce, as evidenced by landmarks like the 1910 Limon Depot, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This small town, with its blend of historical significance and rural character, takes a measured approach to development and regulation. While Limon's lighting regulations are limited in scope, they reflect the community's practical needs while respecting its historical heritage.

Quick Reference Guide

Based on available information from Limon's building code, lighting regulations focus primarily on:

• Adult Business Lighting Requirements
• Minimum illumination levels for different areas
• Safety-focused lighting standards
• Construction Site Lighting Controls
• Restrictions on light spillage
• Safety requirements for nighttime work

Adult Business Lighting Requirements

Adult businesses in Limon must adhere to specific lighting requirements designed to ensure safety and visibility.

Parking Area Illumination

• Required illumination: Average maintained horizontal illumination of one foot-candle of light
• Coverage areas: All off-street parking areas and walkways
• Operating hours: Must be illuminated from dusk until closing hours

Interior Lighting Standards

Different types of adult businesses have varying illumination requirements:

General Adult Business Premises

• Minimum illumination: Two foot-candles of light measured at floor level
• Coverage: Every place where patrons are permitted access
• Equipment: Must use overhead lighting fixtures of sufficient intensity

Adult Motion Picture Theaters

• Minimum illumination: One foot-candle of light measured at floor level
• Coverage: All patron-accessible areas
• Equipment: Must use overhead lighting fixtures of sufficient intensity

These regulations ensure adequate visibility for safety purposes while maintaining appropriate lighting levels for the specific business type.

Construction Site Lighting Requirements

Limon's building code includes practical regulations for lighting at construction sites, focusing on safety and minimizing disturbances to surrounding areas.

Barricade and Warning Light Requirements

• Barricades used at night must be reflectorized
• Barricade warning lights may be required
• Oil flares or kerosene lanterns are prohibited as illumination sources

Light Spillage Controls

• Nighttime work area flood lighting must be contained
• Lighting must not spill outside the construction area in ways that:
• Disturb neighboring properties
• Annoy nearby residents
• Endanger the comfort, health, or peace of others

These requirements balance the need for adequate workplace illumination with consideration for community comfort.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Limon's Approach to Lighting

Limon's approach to lighting regulation appears focused on specific use cases rather than comprehensive standards. This reflects the town's practical, needs-based approach to governance.

Considerations for Business Owners

If you operate a business in Limon, particularly an adult business, understanding and complying with the specific foot-candle requirements is essential for proper operation.

Construction Project Planning

For those undertaking construction projects, planning appropriate lighting that contains light within the work area is not just a regulatory requirement—it's also a good neighbor policy that respects Limon's community values.

Supporting Limon's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we recognize Limon's unique position as a historic transportation hub with a distinct rural character. Our roots as a manufacturer dating back to 1918 give us perspective on how lighting needs evolve while respecting community heritage.

We understand that communities like Limon value practical solutions that enhance safety and functionality without compromising their historical and cultural identity. Our experience with projects in small towns and rural communities has taught us the importance of lighting that serves specific needs while respecting the surrounding environment.

As a resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, we appreciate Limon's focused approach to lighting standards that addresses specific concerns rather than imposing unnecessary restrictions. This pragmatic approach aligns with our belief that lighting should serve the community's needs while respecting its character.

Historical Context and Modern Needs

Balancing History and Functionality

Limon's position as the "Hub City" at the intersection of transportation routes has shaped its development since its founding. The limited nature of its lighting regulations may reflect a community that values practical solutions over extensive restrictions.

Small-Town Values in Lighting Design

With landmarks like the historic Limon Depot highlighting the town's railroad heritage, Limon demonstrates its commitment to preserving connections to its past. The town's cautious approach to development likely extends to how it views lighting—as a practical necessity that should not overwhelm its rural character.

Conclusion

While Limon's lighting regulations are limited in scope, focusing primarily on adult businesses and construction sites, they reveal a community that takes a targeted approach to regulation. The emphasis on practical concerns like safety and minimizing disturbances to neighbors reflects Limon's rural values and community-minded approach.

For property owners and businesses in Limon, understanding these specific lighting requirements ensures compliance while respecting the town's character as a historic transportation hub with deep roots in Colorado's development. As Limon continues to balance its historical significance with contemporary needs, its approach to lighting will likely remain practical and focused on specific community concerns.