Lighting Regulations in Pocatello, Idaho: A Comprehensive Guide to Property Illumination Standards

Introduction

Nestled in southeastern Idaho, Pocatello carries a rich heritage dating back to 1889. Known as the "Gateway to the Northwest," this historic city was named after Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe. From its origins as a railroad town to its current status as home to Idaho State University, Pocatello has always balanced honoring its historical character while adapting to modern needs.

This balance is particularly evident in the city's approach to lighting regulations. Proper lighting enhances safety and security while preserving the aesthetic integrity of Pocatello's historical districts and unique architectural heritage. The city's lighting standards reflect its commitment to maintaining community character while ensuring functional illumination for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide: Pocatello Lighting Requirements

Most Critical Requirements:

• Shielding: All lights must be shielded to direct light toward the earth's surface
• Height Restrictions:
• Residential/RCP zones: 15 ft maximum
• Commercial zones: 30 ft maximum
• Industrial zones: 45 ft maximum
• Electronic Message Centers: Cannot exceed 0.3 foot-candle over ambient lighting
• Nighttime Restrictions: Electronic message displays in residential/RCP zones cannot operate between 9:30 PM and 6:30 AM
• Canopy Lighting: Must be recessed with diffusers not extending below the surface

General Lighting Standards

Shielding and Direction

Pocatello prioritizes reducing light pollution and preventing light trespass onto neighboring properties. According to the code:

• All lights must be shielded to direct light toward the earth's surface and away from reflective surfaces
• All lighting fixtures must be shielded to direct light away from adjacent properties, especially those developed with residential uses
• Luminaires on poles, stands, or mounted on buildings must have a shield, adjustable reflector, and non-protruding diffuser

Height Restrictions

Light fixture height is carefully regulated based on zoning district:

• Residential, Residential/Commercial/Professional, and Mixed-Use zones:
• Maximum height: 15 feet
• Commercial zones:
• Maximum height: 30 feet
• Pole-mounted lights cannot be taller than the building they illuminate (or 30 feet, whichever is shorter)
• Industrial zones:
• Maximum height: 45 feet

Safety and Code Compliance

• All fixtures must meet building codes adopted by the city
• Facilities requiring floodlighting must arrange lights to prevent shine toward roadways, adjacent properties, or directly into the night sky

Sign and Electronic Message Display Regulations

Sign Illumination Standards

Pocatello has specific requirements for how signs can be illuminated based on location:

Residential and RCP Zones

• External lighting fixtures must be fully cutoff and fully shielded
• Internal lighting must be recessed and "blacked out" with only the message illuminated

Commercial and Industrial Zones

• External lighting fixtures must be fully cutoff and fully shielded

Downtown Historic District

• Signs must be constructed of wood or metal
• Cannot be internally illuminated (neon is acceptable upon review by the Historic Preservation Commission)

Wall and Awning Signs

• No internal lighting permitted

Electronic Message Centers (EMC)

Electronic message displays must adhere to strict standards:

Light Intensity and Measurement

• Cannot exceed 0.3 foot-candle over ambient lighting conditions
• Measurements must be taken with an illuminance meter measuring foot-candles accurate to at least two decimal points
• Measurement distance is calculated using the formula: Measurement Distance = √(Area of sign square feet × 100)

Controls and Operation

• Must have automated dimmer control that automatically adjusts based on ambient light
• Curfew: All electronic message displays in Residential or RCP zones cannot be illuminated between 9:30 PM and 6:30 AM
• No flashing, chasing, blinking, rotating, or movement of any part of the display
• Message changes must occur within 2 seconds or less
• Must have default design that freezes in case of malfunction

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Mobile Home and RV Parks

• All roadways and walks must be adequately lighted
• Minimum 0.2 foot-candle required for protective lighting along full length of driveways and walkways

Canopy Structures

• Business canopies must have recessed lights with diffusers
• Diffusers cannot extend below the surface of the canopy

Sexually Oriented Businesses

• Interior areas accessible to patrons require minimum 5.0 foot-candles measured at floor level
• This illumination must be maintained whenever patrons are present

Childcare Facilities

• Emergency lighting required for operations caring for more than 12 children
• Facilities operating within one hour of sunrise/sunset only need emergency lighting in windowless exit areas
• All facilities must have an accessible flashlight maintained in good working order

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Requirements

• Plans for original installation or changes in lighting are required for all proposed developments except single-family and two-family dwellings
• These plans must include:
• Locations of fixtures on the premises
• Height and dimensions of proposed fixtures
• Details about lamps, supports, reflectors, and related devices

Energy Conservation

• Plans to limit lighting hours and conserve energy are encouraged
• Consider timers, motion sensors, or other automated systems to reduce unnecessary illumination

Streetlight Installation

• Installation of streetlights may be required following review by traffic and engineering department
• Costs for installation are the developer's responsibility

Underground Utilities

• All utility lines, including power and light, must be installed underground

Supporting Pocatello's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Pocatello's thoughtful approach to balancing safety, functionality, and historic preservation through its lighting regulations. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we value the preservation of community character and historical integrity.

Our team recognizes the importance of the "Gateway to the Northwest" maintaining its distinctive identity while providing modern lighting solutions. We're committed to helping communities like Pocatello navigate lighting regulations and find solutions that enhance safety while preserving the unique architectural heritage that makes the city special.

With our deep understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs, we're proud to serve as an educational resource for property owners seeking to understand and comply with local lighting standards. Our commitment extends beyond products to supporting communities in their efforts to create well-lit, historically respectful environments.

Conclusion

Pocatello's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safe, functional lighting for residents and businesses. From the height restrictions that maintain the city's visual character to the careful regulations of electronic displays that prevent light pollution, these standards help maintain the unique feel of this historic railroad town.

Property owners should carefully review these requirements before installing or modifying exterior lighting. By adhering to these standards, residents and businesses contribute to preserving the distinctive atmosphere that makes Pocatello a special place to live, work, and visit.

Whether you're installing lighting for a new development, retrofitting an existing property, or simply replacing fixtures, understanding these regulations ensures your project enhances the community while meeting all compliance requirements.