Lighting Regulations in Morrison, Colorado: Preserving Historic Character While Ensuring Safety and Function

Morrison, Colorado might be small in size, but this historic town takes its lighting regulations seriously. Nestled in the valley south of Red Rocks and just fifteen miles southwest of Denver, Morrison has carefully crafted lighting standards that balance modern needs with preservation of its unique historical character.

Whether you're a resident, business owner, or simply interested in how small towns maintain their charm while meeting lighting needs, this guide will help you understand Morrison's approach to exterior lighting.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements in Morrison:

• Maximum Light Levels:
• Standard areas: Average of 2 footcandles with 15:1 uniformity ratio
• Parking lots (10+ spaces): Average of 5 footcandles with 10:1 uniformity ratio
• Light trespass limit: 2 footcandles at one meter beyond property line
• Fixture Specifications:
• Temperature limit: Maximum 3,000 Kelvin (CCT)
• Brightness limit: No single fixture brighter than 1,500 lumens
• Certification required: International Dark Sky Association compliance with IDA certification
• Shielding: All fixtures must be fully shielded with no light emitted above horizontal plane
• Prohibited Lighting:
• Fluorescent, low pressure sodium, neon, and mercury vapor lights
• Searchlights, laser source lights, strobe/flashing lights
• Unshielded lights
• Compliance Timeline:
• Non-conforming lighting must comply by January 1, 2034

Historical Context: Why These Regulations Matter

Morrison's story begins in 1872 when George Morrison, a stonemason and businessman, established the town. Originally supported by the quarrying industry, Morrison evolved into a tourist-oriented destination, particularly with the development of Red Rocks attractions in the early 20th century.

With fewer than 425 residents as of the 2020 census, Morrison maintains its small-town charm despite its proximity to Denver. The town's recognition on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976 underscores its historical significance.

Preserving Character Through Thoughtful Lighting

Morrison's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. The town's unique position between hogbacks and foothills has sheltered it from Denver's suburban sprawl, allowing it to maintain its distinctive atmosphere.

Appropriate lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting historic architecture while preventing light pollution that would diminish the town's charm and natural environment.

General Lighting Standards

Light Levels and Intensity

Morrison's code establishes clear guidelines for light intensity:

• Light levels at ground level cannot exceed an average of 2 footcandles with a uniformity ratio of 15:1
• Parking lots with 10 or more spaces are permitted up to 5 footcandles average with a 10:1 uniformity ratio
• Light trespass is limited to 2 footcandles at one meter beyond property lines

Fixture Requirements and Restrictions

Morrison places significant emphasis on the quality and characteristics of lighting fixtures:

• All exterior fixtures must be fully shielded with no light emitted above the horizontal plane
• Fixtures on buildings cannot be installed above the eave line or parapet wall
• Shields are required on fixtures facing residential areas or public rights-of-way
• No single lighting fixture can exceed 1,500 lumens
• All luminaires must be International Dark Sky Association compliant with IDA certification

Color Temperature Standards

Morrison specifically regulates the color quality of lighting:

• All lighting must have a Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) of 3,000 Kelvin or less
• This requirement ensures warmer lighting that preserves the town's historic ambiance

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Adult Businesses

Adult businesses have specific illumination requirements:

• Parking areas and entries: 1 foot-candle from dusk to closing
• General premises: 2 foot-candles minimum (except theaters)
• Adult motion picture theaters: 1 foot-candle minimum

Recreational Facilities

Sports and recreational lighting has tailored regulations:

• Must follow Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA RP-6) standards
• Field lighting must be turned off within 30 minutes after the last event
• Cannot exceed 2 footcandles at one meter beyond property line

Rooftop Patios

For rooftop patios, there's a simple but important restriction:

• No lighting can be erected above 4 feet from floor level

Pedestrian Lighting

New developments and substantial improvements must include:

• Pedestrian street lighting matching existing town architectural design
• Fixtures spaced every 40-50 feet

Compliance and Documentation

Photometric Plans

For new development, Morrison requires proper documentation:

• A photometric plan must be submitted with site plans
• Plans must demonstrate compliance with lighting standards
• Must show mathematical grid of footcandles produced by each fixture

Timeline for Compliance

Morrison has established a reasonable timeframe for bringing lighting into compliance:

• All non-conforming lighting must be brought into compliance by January 1, 2034
• When fixtures are abandoned or damaged requiring repairs, replacements must comply with current standards

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

If you own property in Morrison, understanding these lighting requirements is essential for:

• New construction projects
• Renovation of existing properties
• Replacement of damaged lighting fixtures
• Long-term compliance planning before the 2034 deadline

Prohibited Lighting Types

Be aware that these lighting types are explicitly prohibited:

• Fluorescent lighting
• Low pressure sodium lighting
• Neon lighting fixtures
• Mercury vapor light bulbs and fixtures
• Searchlights and laser source lights
• Strobe or flashing lights
• Any unshielded lights

Making Smart Lighting Choices

When selecting lighting for your Morrison property:

• Choose fixtures with proper IDA certification
• Verify lumens output (under 1,500 per fixture)
• Select warm lighting (under 3,000K CCT)
• Ensure proper shielding to prevent light pollution
• Consider how fixture placement affects neighboring properties

Supporting Morrison's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of preserving community character while meeting modern lighting needs. With experience in communities like Morrison that value their historical integrity, Bock appreciates the balance between safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

A Partner in Preservation

Bock Lighting shares Morrison's commitment to maintaining historical character through appropriate lighting solutions. With an understanding of regional architectural styles and the unique challenges of lighting historic areas, Bock provides expertise that helps communities maintain their distinctive character.

Education and Resources

Rather than simply offering products, Bock serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations. Understanding the technical aspects of lighting—from color temperature to light distribution patterns—helps property owners make informed decisions that comply with local regulations while enhancing their properties.

Sustainable Lighting Practices

Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Morrison's vision for preserving its natural environment and night sky. This includes developing fixtures that minimize light pollution while providing effective illumination where needed.

Conclusion

Morrison, Colorado's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safe, functional lighting throughout the community. By establishing clear standards for light levels, fixture specifications, and color temperature, the town has created a framework that protects its unique charm.

For property owners, understanding these requirements is essential for current and future compliance. With a grace period extending to 2034, there's ample time to plan and implement lighting solutions that meet both regulatory requirements and aesthetic goals.

Through thoughtful lighting practices, Morrison continues to protect its historical legacy while providing the illumination necessary for a safe, vibrant community.