Lighting Regulations in Malheur County, Oregon: A Practical Guide to Compliance

Introduction: Lighting in Rural Oregon

Malheur County, located in the easternmost part of Oregon, has established specific lighting regulations as part of its building code to ensure safety, reduce nuisances, and maintain the rural character of the region. While not as extensive as what you might find in more densely populated areas, these lighting standards address important concerns like glare control and proper illumination of public spaces.

Understanding these regulations is crucial for property owners, businesses, and developers seeking to comply with local standards while meeting their lighting needs.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

• Glare Control: All glare-producing operations must be shielded to prevent visibility from property lines
• Light Direction: Artificial lighting must be shielded, deflected, or reduced to avoid shining into adjoining properties
• Parking Areas: Off-street parking lighting must be directed or shielded to confine direct rays to the site
• Signs: No flashing lights permitted on signs; light must be directed away from adjacent premises
• Height Restrictions: Light poles exceeding 25 feet in height have special regulations
• Airport Safety: No glare-producing materials allowed on exteriors within airport approach safety zones
• Telecommunications: Wireless facilities generally cannot be illuminated except when required by FAA or Oregon Department of Aviation

Glare Control Requirements

Understanding Glare Restrictions

One of the most consistently emphasized regulations in Malheur County's code relates to glare control. The county defines glare as light that creates visual discomfort or disability when crossing property boundaries.

Industrial and Commercial Operations

For industrial and commercial activities:

• Shielding Requirement: Any glare-producing operations (such as welding arcs) must be shielded so they are not visible from the property line
• Surface Materials: Surfaces near glare sources must be of a type that minimizes reflection beyond property lines
• Performance Standard: No permitted use shall be conducted in a manner that would render it noxious or offensive due to glare

Residential Considerations

For residential properties:

• Artificial lighting must be shielded, deflected or reduced in intensity to avoid shining into adjoining dwellings
• Lighting must not create a hazard to the traveling public on any road or street

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Requirements

Malheur County has established specific guidelines for sign illumination:

• Prohibited: No sign shall be illuminated by flashing lights
• Direction: Light from signs shall be directed away from and not reflected upon adjacent premises
• Billboard Standards: All illumination devices for billboards must be concealed within the nonstructural trim

Purpose of Sign Lighting Regulations

The county's sign lighting regulations serve specific purposes:

• Promoting traffic safety through proper regulation of electrification and illumination
• Ensuring visibility from public rights of way without creating hazards
• Balancing the needs of businesses with community standards

Special Zone Requirements

Airport Approach Safety Zone

Properties located within designated airport approach safety zones face additional restrictions:

• No glare-producing materials shall be used on the exterior of any structure within these zones
• This requirement helps maintain pilot visibility and aircraft safety

Parking and Transportation Areas

For parking areas and transportation infrastructure:

• Directional Control: All lights in parking areas shall be directed or shielded to confine direct rays to the site
• Accessways through parking lots generally include lighting as part of their required features
• Transportation Improvements: Installation of lighting within existing rights-of-way is permitted outright in most zoning districts

Development Considerations

Planning for Lighting Compliance

When developing property in Malheur County, consider these lighting-related strategies mentioned in the code:

• Increased Setbacks: Consider increasing setbacks of structures to reduce possibilities of night lighting nuisances
• Focused Lighting: Control and focus outdoor lighting to avoid glare being directed beyond property limits
• Right-of-Way Installations: Lighting installation within existing rights-of-way is permitted in most zoning districts

Telecommunications Facilities

Special restrictions apply to telecommunications facilities:

• No lighting of wireless telecommunication facilities is allowed
• Exceptions: Lighting may be permitted when required by the Federal Aviation Administration, Oregon Department of Aviation, or as a condition of approval by the Malheur County Planning Commission

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Implementation

For property owners in Malheur County, implementing these lighting regulations typically involves:

• Selecting Appropriate Fixtures: Choose fixtures that direct light downward and minimize spillover
• Proper Placement: Position lights away from property boundaries when possible
• Shielding: Add shields to existing fixtures that may cause glare issues
• Height Considerations: Be aware that light poles exceeding 25 feet have special regulations

Compliance Considerations

When planning lighting installations:

• The county follows the Oregon Electrical Specialty Code as adopted by OAR 918-305-0100 through 918-305-320
• Refer to Appendix H of the Oregon Structural Specialty Code for comprehensive sign regulations
• Consider how lighting choices affect both functionality and neighbor relations

Supporting Malheur County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting as a Community Resource

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique challenges faced by rural communities like those in Malheur County. Our experience with similar communities across the country has taught us the importance of balancing practical lighting needs with respect for rural character and dark skies.

Expertise in Regulatory Compliance

As lighting professionals, we recognize that navigating county regulations can sometimes be challenging. We're committed to serving as an educational resource to help property owners understand and implement lighting solutions that meet local requirements while serving their practical needs.

Our expertise in lighting design allows us to recommend solutions that address glare control, appropriate direction of light, and other requirements specific to Malheur County's code.

Conclusion

While Malheur County's lighting regulations are not extensive, they focus on important aspects of responsible lighting practices, particularly regarding glare control and light trespass. Property owners should be mindful of these requirements when installing or modifying exterior lighting.

The regulations reflect a balanced approach that respects neighbors' rights while allowing for necessary illumination. By understanding and following these guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to maintaining the quality of life in Malheur County while meeting their lighting needs.

For specific projects, it's always advisable to consult with county planning officials to ensure full compliance with current requirements.