Lighting Regulations in Gallup, New Mexico: Preserving Cultural Heritage While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled between the Navajo and Zuni reservations in northwestern New Mexico, Gallup has a rich history dating back to 1881 when it was established as a railhead for the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. Known as the "Heart of Indian Country," this vibrant city along historic Route 66 boasts a designated Historic District with numerous buildings on the National Historic Register.

Gallup's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. These regulations are particularly important given the city's status as a major center for Native American art and jewelry manufacturing, where proper lighting plays a crucial role in both security and showcasing the community's distinctive character.

Quick Reference Guide

• Required Lighting Areas: Units, halls, walkways, porches, parking areas
• Exit Lighting: Mandatory at the end of interior hallways
• Outdoor Area Lighting Rates:
• City-owned fixtures: 150W ($6.88/month), 250W ($15.76/month), 400W ($19.71/month)
• Privately-owned unmetered fixtures: 150W ($6.07/month), 250W ($13.88/month), 400W ($17.37/month)
• Tower Lighting: Only when required by FAA, with minimal disturbance design
• Public Safety: Unlawful to remove warning lights near streets/sidewalks

Residential and Commercial Property Lighting Requirements

Basic Lighting Standards

Gallup's building code requires property owners to maintain sufficient artificial lighting in various areas when natural light is inadequate. This requirement applies to:

• Individual residential and commercial units
• Hallways and interior common areas
• Walkways and exterior pathways
• Porches and entryways
• Parking areas and lots

While the code doesn't specify exact illumination levels in these extracts, the emphasis is on providing "sufficient" lighting to ensure safety and functionality.

Exit Lighting Requirements

Safety is a priority in Gallup's lighting regulations, particularly regarding emergency situations. Property owners must:

• Maintain exit lights at the end of each interior hallway
• Ensure these lights clearly indicate the nearest exit for emergency use
• Keep exit lighting functional at all times

These requirements are particularly important for commercial buildings, multi-unit residential properties, and public facilities where clear exit marking can save lives during emergencies.

Special Lighting Considerations

Tower and Tall Structure Lighting

Gallup's regulations address the visual impact of lighting on tall structures:

• Towers shall not be artificially lit unless required by the FAA or other authorities
• When lighting is required, designs must be chosen to cause minimal disturbance to surrounding views
• This regulation helps preserve Gallup's distinctive skyline and reduces light pollution

Public Safety Lighting

The city code specifically addresses safety lighting in public areas:

• It is unlawful to remove, destroy or interfere with any barrier, guard, or light placed near streets, sidewalks, or public ways
• These safety measures are designed to warn and protect travelers from potential hazards
• Temporary removal is permitted only to allow vehicle passage with immediate replacement

Weather-Protected Lighting

For certain permitted premises, the code requires:

• Adequate weatherproof housing for lighting fixtures
• Proper ventilation and temperature control
• Sufficient lighting with appropriate shade

Outdoor Area Lighting Rates and Specifications

Gallup maintains specific rate structures for outdoor lighting, which reflect the city's approach to public and private illumination.

City-Owned Fixtures

For lighting fixtures owned and operated by the city:

• 150 watt: $6.88 per month
• 250 watt: $15.76 per month
• 400 watt: $19.71 per month

Privately-Owned Unmetered Fixtures

For privately owned and operated unmetered fixtures:

• 150 watt: $6.07 per month
• 250 watt: $13.88 per month
• 400 watt: $17.37 per month

Technical Specifications

The code notes that these rates apply to:

• High pressure sodium fixtures
• Metal halide fixtures
• LED equivalents of the specified wattages

It's important to note that the city indicates no new services will be added under this rate structure, suggesting potential changes to the lighting program.

Metered Street and Highway Lighting

For metered street and highway lighting, the energy charge is:

• All kilowatt-hours (kWh) at $0.1089 per kWh

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Responsibilities

As a property owner in Gallup, you are responsible for:

• Ensuring adequate lighting in all required areas
• Maintaining exit lighting in multi-unit buildings
• Preserving the functionality of safety lighting
• Adhering to regulations regarding tower lighting if applicable

Lighting as a Public Nuisance Prevention

The city code mentions lighting as a potential requirement for properties that have been identified as public nuisances. In these cases:

• Proper lighting may be mandated as part of nuisance abatement
• Lighting improvements might be required alongside other measures like fencing
• These requirements would be specific to properties with documented issues

Portable Lighting Restrictions

The code specifically prohibits certain types of portable lighting:

• Portable heaters
• Sun lamps
• Heat lamps
• Infrared devices

These items are only permitted if they are permanently mounted fixtures, likely due to fire safety concerns.

Supporting Gallup's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the unique balance Gallup strives to maintain between preserving its rich cultural heritage and meeting modern lighting needs. With roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting appreciates the importance of respecting architectural character while providing effective illumination solutions.

As a manufacturer with experience in communities with historic districts, Bock recognizes how proper lighting can enhance Gallup's distinctive downtown area while respecting its status on the National Historic Register. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs allows us to serve as a resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations.

Bock Lighting shares Gallup's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that minimize light pollution while maximizing safety and functionality. We believe in supporting communities through education about lighting regulations and helping maintain the character that makes places like Gallup special.

Conclusion

Gallup's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to safety and cultural preservation. While the extracted code sections provide important guidelines, they represent only a portion of the complete lighting requirements that may exist in various city ordinances.

Property owners should consult with city officials for the most current and comprehensive lighting requirements, especially when undertaking new construction or significant renovations. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Gallup's unique character as the "Heart of Indian Country" while ensuring safe, well-lit environments for all.