1. Policy: Exterior Lighting
The character and level of lighting is a special concern in the community. Exterior lighting should be a subordinate element so that the stars in the night sky are visible. Traditionally, exterior lights were simple in character. Most used incandescent lamps, which cast a color similar to that of daylight. These were relatively low in intensity and were shielded with simple shade devices. This overall effect should be continued.
Light spill is a major concern, particularly in residential neighborhoods and along the River Park Corridor Overlay Treatment Area and should be minimized.
A. Night lighting for all projects shall be subdued
B. Exterior lights shall be simple in character and similar in color and intensity to that used traditionally
1. Fixtures mounted/suspended below 10 feet above the floor/grade must be either a) equipped with an opaque (diffusing not clear) enclosure around the bulb/lamp or b) fully down directed and shielded so that no light rays are emitted above the horizontal plane.
2. Lights along alleys should be utilitarian in design.
3. All exterior light sources should have a low level of luminescence. Lamps with a maximum equivalent of a 40 watt incandescent bulb (490 lumens) are preferred for site lighting. Lower intensities should be used in architectural fixtures such as step lights.
4. Use shielded lights that direct light onto walking surfaces to minimize the visual impacts of site lighting.
5. Minimize the visual impact of light spill from a building.
6. Applicants may choose to submit an interior lighting plan so HARC can fully evaluate the impacts of interior lighting relative to glass area and spillover. In sensitive areas, such as the River Park Corridor Overlay District, an interior lighting plan may be required.
C. Minimize the visual impacts of site and architectural lighting
1. Interior lighting can have substantial impacts on the night character of the town. Consider the potential for light spill when designing interior lighting, which can be affected by the placement and type of fixture.
2. Prevent glare onto adjacent properties by using shielded and focused light sources that direct light onto the ground. The use of downlights, with the bulb fully enclosed within the shade, or step lights that direct light only on to walkways, is strongly encouraged.
3. Unshielded, high intensity light sources and those that direct light upward will not be permitted.
4. Shield and consolidate lighting associated with service areas, parking lots and parking structures. Minimize 24/7 lighting through the use of timers.
5. Timers may be required to prevent unnecessary sources of light by controlling the length of time that exterior lights are in use late at night. Motion detectors shall only be used in approved locations. All exterior circuits/fixtures must be equipped with a photo sensor to turn on and a timer/off switch to turn off the lights during daytime (should the lights be inadvertently be left on). Photo sensors should not be located in direct sunlight.
6. Lighting shall be carefully located so as not to shine into residential living space, on or off the property or into public rights-of-way. Avoid placing fixtures that impact adjacent properties.
7. Step lights on upper level decks and balconies may be used. Wall sconces may be appropriate or required for upper level egress pathways but are inappropriate for upper level decks and balconies. Interior lighting, step or other types of lights not mounted onto the exterior envelope of the structure may be used to light the deck.
8. Wall washing light fixtures are not allowed.
9. Avoid using fixtures with multiple bulbs.