Lighting Regulations in Lewistown, Montana: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Lighting in the Heart of Montana

Nestled in the geographic center of Montana, Lewistown stands as a testament to the state's rich heritage. Established in 1879 by Métis families and incorporated in 1889, this community grew rapidly during the gold rush era and subsequent agricultural boom. The city's distinctive architectural character—marked by Croatian craftsmanship and the use of local stone—reflects its evolution from a trading post to a vital agricultural and supply center.

Today, with approximately 5,900 residents, Lewistown balances growth with the preservation of its unique historical identity. This balance extends to the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to enhance safety while maintaining the community's aesthetic values and respecting its architectural heritage.

Quick Reference Guide to Lewistown Lighting Regulations

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting requirements to know:

• Design Review: All exterior lighting affecting surrounding properties is subject to review
• Energy Efficiency: All lighting installations must comply with the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code
• Sign Illumination: Signs may be illuminated unless specifically prohibited
• Prohibited Lighting: Flashing signs, glaring signs, and searchlights are not permitted
• Historic Fixtures: No private signs may be affixed to public historic lighting fixtures
• Residential Considerations: Lighting must be compatible with residential area character and directed away from homes

Design Review and Code Compliance

Design Review Authority

The Design Review Board in Lewistown has explicit authority to review exterior lighting that affects surrounding properties. This oversight ensures that lighting installations enhance rather than detract from the city's character.

Energy Code Requirements

Lewistown has adopted the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code, which governs energy-efficient lighting systems throughout the city. This code establishes baseline standards for lighting efficiency across residential and commercial properties.

Professional Installation Requirements

Only bonded sign companies are permitted to do wiring in signs and outline lighting, and only on the secondary side of transformers. This requirement ensures that electrical work related to lighting is performed by qualified professionals.

Sign Illumination Regulations

Permitted Illumination

The city code indicates that all signs may be illuminated unless otherwise prohibited. This provides flexibility for businesses while maintaining standards through specific restrictions.

Prohibited Lighting Types

Lewistown specifically prohibits several types of illuminated signage:

• Flashing Signs: Signs with cyclical interruption of illumination are not allowed
• Glaring Signs: Signs with light sources or reflectivity that constitute a hazard or nuisance
• Searchlights: Generally prohibited except as allowed in section 5-21-40
• Signs on Historic Fixtures: No private signs may be affixed to public historic lighting fixtures

Definitions for Compliance

The code provides clear definitions to help property owners understand requirements:

• Illuminated Sign: A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally
• Electrically Energized Animated Signs: Signs with motion activated primarily by electrical means

Parking Area Lighting Requirements

Safety and Nuisance Prevention

Lighting used to illuminate parking areas must be arranged so it does not:

• Create a hazard for passing motorists
• Constitute a nuisance of any kind

Residential Area Protection

For parking areas within 150 feet of residential zones where the parking is directly visible to residents, illuminating devices must be shaded to direct light away from residential property.

Maintenance Requirements

All parking area lighting must be kept in good condition. This ongoing maintenance requirement ensures that lighting continues to function as designed over time.

Planning Requirements

For developments with more than ten parking spaces, the site plan must clearly indicate lighting arrangements. This advance planning helps ensure adequate and appropriate illumination.

Planned Unit Development (PUD) Lighting Standards

Nighttime Safety

Light fixtures for walks, parking areas, driveways, and other facilities must be:

• Developed in sufficient number
• Placed at proper locations
• Designed to assure safe and convenient nighttime use

Documentation Requirements

Development applications must include exterior lighting system information on a 24" x 36" sheet showing:

• Type of fixture proposed (perspective or elevation drawing)
• General location indicated on the site plan

Residential Compatibility

For commercial development in residential PUDs, lighting must be:

• Subdued
• Non-commercial in character
• Wholly compatible with residential qualities

Historic Preservation and Street Lighting

Historic Lighting Protection

Lewistown places special emphasis on protecting its historic lighting fixtures:

• No private signs may be affixed to public historic lighting fixtures
• Signs or banners for public events require advance approval from the administrator
• Pots shall not be hung from historic lighting fixtures

Tree Management for Light Distribution

The city regulates vegetation that might interfere with street lighting:

• Tree owners must maintain trees to avoid unduly obstructing light from street lamps
• The city has the right to prune trees on private property when they interfere with light from streetlights

Street Lighting Districts

Lewistown manages street lighting through special improvement districts:

• The city engineer maintains an inventory of streetlight types, locations, and costs
• The city commission assesses property within each lighting district for maintenance, installation, and electrical current costs
• Annual assessments may include a reserve fee (up to 10% of total annual cost)

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Airport Area Restrictions

Properties near the airport face additional lighting restrictions:

• Lights that glare upward or shine toward the airport are prohibited
• No lighting may make it difficult to distinguish between airport lights and others
• No lighting may result in glare affecting aircraft operators
• No lights may be installed on system towers unless required by FAA regulations

Flood Area Requirements

In flood-prone areas, lighting and electrical systems must meet specific standards:

• Power service equipment must be located 2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation
• Portable electrical equipment below flood elevation must have submersible connections
• Electrical wiring at or below flood level must withstand continuous submergence
• Disconnect equipment must be accessible and located outside the floodplain

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Lewistown's lighting regulations helps ensure your property remains compliant while contributing positively to the community. Here are practical tips:

Planning for New Lighting

When planning new exterior lighting:

• Consider the historical context of your property and surrounding areas
• Consult with the Design Review Board early in your planning process
• Ensure lighting is directed away from neighboring residential properties
• Choose fixtures that complement Lewistown's architectural character

Maintaining Existing Lighting

For existing lighting installations:

• Regularly inspect and maintain all lighting systems
• Keep parking area lighting in good working condition
• Trim trees that may obstruct street lighting
• Ensure historic fixtures remain free of unauthorized attachments

Supporting Lewistown's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Lewistown's commitment to preserving historical character while enhancing safety and functionality. We understand the unique challenges faced by communities like Lewistown that seek to balance modern lighting needs with historic preservation goals.

Our experience with regional architectural styles enables us to appreciate Lewistown's distinctive stone craftsmanship and historical buildings. We recognize that proper lighting can enhance these features while respecting the city's regulations and community character.

As a resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, we're committed to supporting Lewistown's vision through education and expertise rather than just product offerings. We believe that thoughtful lighting solutions can reinforce community identity and contribute to the continued preservation of Lewistown's architectural heritage.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Lewistown's careful approach to development and preservation, making us a natural partner for residents and businesses seeking to enhance their properties while honoring the city's historical significance.

Conclusion

Lewistown's lighting regulations reflect the city's dedication to preserving its unique historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors. From sign illumination to street lighting districts, these guidelines help maintain the balance between growth and conservation that makes Lewistown special.

By understanding and following these regulations, property owners contribute to the community's efforts to protect its architectural heritage while creating a well-lit, safe environment for all. As Lewistown continues to evolve, these thoughtful lighting standards will help ensure that the city remains true to its distinctive identity at the heart of Montana.