Lighting Regulations in Gem County, Idaho: Preserving Rural Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Idaho, Gem County was established in 1915 with a rich history connected to the gold rush era. The county seat of Emmett, along with historical towns like Sweet, embodies the area's commitment to preserving its rural character and natural beauty. With a relatively small population of about 16,719 (as of the 2010 census), Gem County's approach to development reflects a careful balance between growth and preservation.

This rural setting and historical context directly influence the county's approach to lighting regulations. With open spaces and a connection to nature being central to the county's identity, lighting regulations aim to prevent light pollution while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide to Gem County Lighting Regulations

• Outdoor Lighting: Must be contained within property boundaries, especially for CAFO properties • Assembly Areas: Minimum 5 foot-candles illumination required for central areas • Dark Sky Protection: Downcast lighting required for many outdoor applications • Sign Lighting: No flashing, rotating beams; bulbs cannot exceed 75 watts • Parking Areas: Must be properly illuminated during non-daylight hours with light directed away from adjoining properties • Security Lighting: May be required by county administrators as additional security measures

General Lighting Requirements

Property Boundaries and Light Trespass

Gem County places significant emphasis on containing light within property boundaries. This reflects the county's commitment to preserving its rural character and preventing unnecessary light pollution.

For Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), the code explicitly states that "All outdoor lighting systems and/or fixtures shall be installed in such a way that the light will be contained within the CAFO property boundaries." This requirement helps minimize the impact of commercial agricultural operations on surrounding properties.

Dark Sky Protection Standards

For many outdoor applications, Gem County requires that "Outdoor site lighting, if used, shall be downcast lighting compatible with dark sky protection standards."

This regulation reflects the county's commitment to preserving natural nighttime environments and reducing unnecessary light pollution that can affect wildlife, diminish views of the night sky, and impact quality of life for residents.

Specific Use Requirements

Assembly Area Lighting

For assemblies that continue during hours of darkness, Gem County requires:

• Minimum illumination of at least 5 foot-candles for central assembly areas, including medical and health facilities • Lighting must not shine unreasonably beyond the boundaries of the assembly location • Specific prohibitions against laser lighting, spotlighting, or strobe lighting extending beyond boundaries • Compliance with all local, state, and federal lighting regulations

Parking Area Requirements

The code specifically addresses lighting for parking areas:

• Parking areas used during non-daylight hours must be properly illuminated to avoid accidents • Lights must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining property • Industrial uses should utilize landscaping and existing woodlands as buffers to screen lighting

Drive-In Restaurants

Drive-in restaurants have a specific requirement to "avoid the direction of night lighting toward any residence." This regulation helps prevent light trespass into residential areas and maintains quality of life for nearby residents.

Sign Lighting Regulations

Prohibited Features

Gem County's sign regulations include several lighting-related restrictions:

• No rotating beams, beacons, or flashing illumination that may resemble emergency lights • No blinking, rotating, or moving parts or components on temporary or permanent signs • No strobe lights or individual light bulbs exceeding 75 watts

Permitted Lighting Methods

The county does permit certain types of sign lighting:

• Signs may be lighted by shielded or directed light sources • Residential entrance identification signs must use indirect lighting with screened wall or ground-mounted light sources • Lighting shall be considered an integral part of all signage proposals

Airport Safety Regulations

Height and Lighting Restrictions

Properties near airports face additional restrictions:

• "The location, building height and lighting of residential and commercial development shall be restricted" when in close proximity to an airport • These restrictions must comply with requirements from the state department of transportation, division of aeronautics, and public transportation and federal aviation administration

Black Canyon Development Standards

The Black Canyon development within Gem County has specific lighting requirements that exemplify the community's values:

Purpose-Driven Lighting

• Intent: Lighting serves different purposes depending on zone or usage (commercial vs. residential) • Residential Areas: Small scale, intimate lighting for streets, sidewalks, building entries • Rural Roads: Lighting should be minimized to reduce light pollution • Main Intersections: Should be lighted for safety purposes only

Energy and Environmental Considerations

• Energy Consumption: Must be considered when determining lighting fixtures • Illumination Levels: Should not exceed minimum required levels for intended purpose • Low-Wattage Products: Use of low wattage, high-life lighting products is encouraged • Renewable Energy: Photovoltaic or other renewable energy sources should be explored

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Requirements

When developing property in Gem County, be aware that lighting plans are often required as part of the approval process:

• CAFO Applications: Must include an outdoor lighting plan • Standard Subdivisions: Require streetlight plans • Development Review Committee: Reviews and approves lighting prior to permit application

Home Occupation Restrictions

If operating a business from home, remember:

• Home occupation signs must be non-illuminated • No equipment or process shall create glare that extends beyond the property

Security Considerations

The administrator of development services has the authority to require property owners/tenants to implement additional security measures, including installing additional security lighting when deemed necessary.

Supporting Gem County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the unique balance Gem County seeks to maintain between preserving its rural character while ensuring safety and functionality. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock appreciates communities that value their historical heritage while adapting to modern needs.

We recognize Gem County's commitment to minimizing light pollution while providing appropriate illumination for various purposes. Our experience with projects that respect community character makes us a valuable resource for property owners seeking to comply with local regulations.

Bock Lighting shares Gem County's values regarding sustainable practices, as evidenced by our support for energy-efficient solutions that align with the county's encouragement of low-wattage, high-life lighting products and exploration of renewable energy sources.

As a community partner, Bock can provide educational resources about lighting regulations and options that maintain Gem County's rural aesthetic while meeting modern lighting needs.

Conclusion

Gem County's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving rural character while ensuring safety and functionality. Though not comprehensive, these regulations focus on preventing light trespass, reducing light pollution, and requiring appropriate illumination for specific uses.

Property owners should pay particular attention to containing light within property boundaries, using downcast lighting compatible with dark sky standards, and following specific requirements for signs, parking areas, and properties near airports.

By understanding and adhering to these lighting regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to maintaining Gem County's unique character and quality of life for generations to come.