Lighting Regulations in Umatilla, Oregon: Balancing Safety, Aesthetics, and Heritage

Introduction

Nestled in northeastern Oregon, the city of Umatilla carries a rich heritage dating back to its first incorporation in 1864. After disincorporating in 1866, the city later reestablished itself in 1906 as the City of Umatilla. A defining moment came in 1968 when the entire city relocated to higher ground in anticipation of flooding from the John Day Lock and Dam construction.

The region's deep connection to the Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse tribes emphasizes preservation of natural resources and respect for the environment. This cultural heritage, combined with the city's commitment to balancing growth with historical preservation, shapes Umatilla's approach to development—including its lighting regulations.

As Umatilla continues to grow, its lighting standards reflect a community that values safety, functionality, and minimal disruption to its natural surroundings.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Shielding Requirement: All on-site lighting must be shielded to prevent off-site glare
• Parking Area Illumination: Minimum 2 foot-candles over parking spaces and walkways
• Maximum Fixture Heights:
• 24 feet for parking lot lighting
• 16 feet for pedestrian walkway lighting
• Orientation: Outdoor lighting must be oriented to prevent direct illumination onto adjacent properties
• Sign Illumination: Cannot create distracting or hazardous conditions for motorists or pedestrians

General Property Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Glare Prevention

Umatilla takes light pollution seriously. The code consistently emphasizes that all on-site lighting must be shielded to prevent off-site glare or nuisance to traffic or neighboring properties. This requirement appears multiple times throughout the regulations, underscoring its importance.

Required Lighting Areas

The city code indicates that lighting may be required in specific areas based on public safety needs:

• Between parking areas and buildings
• Along walkways
• Other areas where public health, safety, or welfare justifies illumination

Lighting as Landscaping Element

Interestingly, Umatilla's code includes decorative lighting as a potential landscape element. Property landscaping must include ground cover material plus at least two elements from this list:

• Flowers
• Decorative shrubs
• Trees
• Boulders
• Decorative lighting

Outdoor Illumination Standards

Adjacent Property Protection

The regulations clearly state that outdoor lighting must be oriented to prevent direct illumination onto adjacent or abutting properties. This requirement supports good neighbor relations while minimizing light pollution.

Site Design Considerations

Site designs should provide for adequate light while maintaining compliance with other requirements. This balance ensures functionality without creating nuisance conditions.

Specific Area Lighting Requirements

Parking Area Lighting

Parking areas have precise lighting specifications:

• Minimum Illumination: 2 foot-candles over parking spaces and walkways
• Direction: Light standards must be directed downward only
• Shielding: Required to prevent lighting spillover into adjacent residential districts
• Maximum Height: Limited to 24 feet for parking lots

Pedestrian Walkway Lighting

For pedestrian safety, the code includes specific requirements for walkway lighting:

• Required Locations: Specifically mandated on the Brownell Boulevard realignment
• Design Standard: Must match example shown in city figure 10-1
• Maximum Height: Limited to 16 feet
• New Development: Sidewalk and bicycle path lighting must be provided with new road construction

Downtown and Commercial Areas

In commercial districts, especially downtown transition areas, lighting plays a key role in creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. The regulations mention street lighting as an important element for creating high-quality pedestrian spaces alongside benches, trash receptacles, and other outdoor furnishings.

Sign Illumination Guidelines

Safety First

Umatilla's sign code prioritizes safety by prohibiting lighting that creates distracting or hazardous conditions. Specifically, no sign shall be erected or maintained which, by use of lights or illumination, creates an unduly distracting or hazardous condition to motorists or pedestrians.

Home Occupation Restrictions

For residential properties with home occupation permits, the regulations allow only:

• 2-square foot nonanimated, nonilluminated flush signs

Animation Defined

The code defines "animation" to include "flashing or intermittent light for sign illumination or for changing the message on a message sign."

Other Lighting Requirements

Tree Maintenance for Light Access

Property owners must maintain trees that extend over streets or rights-of-way. Specifically, branches must be pruned so that light from street lamps is not obstructed and views of intersections or traffic control devices remain clear.

Warning Lights

For construction or hazard areas, warning lights must follow these guidelines:

• Must be electrical markers or flashers
• Must operate from sunset to sunrise
• Must emit light at sufficient intensity and frequency to be visible at a reasonable distance for safety
• Reflectors may supplement but not replace light sources

Site Plan Requirements

When submitting site plans, applicants must provide detailed lighting information, including:

• Location
• Type
• Height
• Areas of illumination

Supporting Umatilla's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the delicate balance Umatilla seeks between modern lighting needs and preserving its rich historical character. With roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, Bock Lighting shares Umatilla's appreciation for heritage while embracing functional, non-intrusive lighting solutions.

As a company with experience in communities that value their distinctive character, Bock Lighting recognizes how proper illumination can enhance safety and aesthetics without disrupting Umatilla's connection to its historical and cultural roots. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs aligns perfectly with Umatilla's approach to balanced development.

Bock Lighting is committed to serving as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations. We understand the importance of preserving the character of historic areas while meeting modern safety and functionality requirements—values that Umatilla clearly prioritizes in its lighting standards.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When developing or modifying property in Umatilla, consider these practical steps:

• Early Planning: Include lighting details in your initial site planning
• Shielding: Ensure all fixtures include proper shielding to prevent light trespass
• Height Restrictions: Verify your lighting fixtures meet height limitations (24 feet for parking, 16 feet for walkways)
• Orientation: Position lights to illuminate only your property
• Documentation: Be prepared to submit detailed lighting information with site plans

Common Compliance Issues

Many property owners encounter challenges with:

• Over-illumination: Installing overly bright lights that affect neighbors
• Improper shielding: Failing to adequately prevent light spillover
• Height violations: Installing fixtures that exceed maximum height restrictions

Conclusion

Umatilla's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to safety, functionality, and respect for its historical character and natural environment. By requiring shielded, properly oriented lighting and establishing specific standards for different areas, the city creates a balanced approach that serves both practical needs and community values.

For property owners, understanding these regulations is essential to successful development and good community relations. By following these standards, you contribute to Umatilla's vision of a well-lit yet respectful built environment that honors its rich heritage while meeting modern needs.

Whether you're developing commercial property, establishing a home-based business, or simply upgrading your exterior lighting, these guidelines provide a clear framework for compliance and good neighborliness in the City of Umatilla.