Lighting Regulations in Pinole, California: Balancing Safety and Dark Sky Preservation

Introduction

Pinole, California, nestled in Contra Costa County with a rich historical character dating back to the late 19th century, takes a thoughtful approach to lighting regulation. The city's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while ensuring public safety is reflected in its lighting standards.

With notable historic structures like the Faria House and the well-preserved buildings of Old Town Pinole, the city has developed lighting regulations that respect its historical essence while addressing modern needs. These regulations aim to balance necessary illumination with the preservation of Pinole's distinctive nighttime character.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Purpose: Balance safety needs while preserving dark skies and preventing light trespass
• Applicability: All new multi-family, residential, and non-residential development
• Standard Light Levels:
• Parking lots: Minimum 1 foot-candle, maximum average 4 foot-candles
• Specialized businesses (banks, convenience stores): Minimum 1.5 foot-candles during operation
• Pedestrian walkways: Minimum 0.5 foot-candle, maximum average 2 foot-candles
• Non-residential entryways: Minimum 1 foot-candle within 5-foot radius
• Maximum Light Fixture Heights:
• Near residential areas: 18 feet maximum
• All other areas: 24 feet maximum
• Gas station canopies: 15 feet maximum clearance
• Light Trespass Limit: Maximum 0.1 foot-candle at residential property lines (equivalent to moonlight)

General Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Direction

All outdoor lighting in Pinole must be designed with careful attention to direction and shielding. Specifically:

• Downward Direction: Fixtures must be directed downward and away from adjoining properties
• Full Shielding: Lighting must be recessed and/or fully shielded to reduce glare
• Minimal Illumination: Lighting should be designed for the minimum level necessary for safety and security
• Contrast Management: Harsh lighting contrasts between properties should be avoided

Energy Efficiency Standards

Pinole emphasizes sustainability in its lighting requirements:

• Efficient Fixtures: Outdoor lighting must use energy-efficient fixtures such as:
• High pressure sodium
• Metal halide
• Low pressure sodium
• Hard-wired compact fluorescent
• Other lighting of equal or greater efficiency
• Bulb Longevity: All new outdoor fixtures must have rated average bulb life of at least 10,000 hours
• Solar Preference: Solar-powered fixtures are encouraged for accent lighting where feasible

Maintenance Requirements

Property owners must maintain lighting installations to ensure continued compliance:

• Replace burnt out or broken bulbs promptly
• Keep fixtures free of graffiti and rust
• Maintain painted surfaces to prevent chipping and peeling

Special Lighting Applications

Commercial and Public Buildings

Public, civic, and religious buildings have special provisions:

• May be fully illuminated during hours of operation
• After hours, only lighting essential for security may remain on
• Street address numbers must be automatically illuminated at night

Sports Fields and Activity Areas

Athletic facilities have specific requirements to minimize impact:

• Lighting must be mounted and aimed to focus on the primary playing area
• No significant off-site light trespass is permitted
• Lights must be turned off within one hour after event conclusion

Gas Station Canopies

Service stations must follow these specific standards:

• Maximum canopy clearance height: 15 feet
• Canopy lighting must be recessed below the underside surface
• A lighting study is required during design review to examine safety and glare issues

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Requirements

• Illumination should use methods that minimize glare onto neighboring properties
• External light sources must be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination beyond the sign
• Light intensity must not create glare affecting residential properties
• Blinking, flashing, or changing light intensity is generally prohibited

Electronic Message Signs

Electronic signs have specific brightness limitations:

• Maximum illumination: 6,000 nits during daylight hours
• Maximum illumination: 1,000 nits between dusk and dawn
• Must include automatic dimming features to adjust to ambient light conditions
• May require auxiliary photocell controls on or near the sign

Prohibited Sign Illumination

• Signs within 50 feet of residences cannot be illuminated unless specifically approved
• Window signs cannot be illuminated
• Temporary signs cannot be illuminated
• Awnings cannot be backlit to appear internally illuminated

Prohibited and Exempt Lighting

Prohibited Lighting Types

The following lighting is not permitted in Pinole:

• Neon tubing or band lighting along buildings (except as approved)
• Search lights or laser source lights (except for emergency use)
• Fixtures creating hazards for safe vehicle travel
• Illumination of entire buildings
• Roof-mounted lighting (except for security purposes)
• Moving, flashing, or animated lighting
• Night security lighting that adversely affects neighboring properties

Exempt Lighting

These lighting types are exempt from the standard regulations:

• Fossil fuel lights (kerosene lanterns, gas fixtures)
• Temporary holiday decorations
• Emergency lighting by government agencies
• Lighting for permitted temporary uses and special events

Supporting Pinole's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, shares Pinole's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation. As a manufacturer with deep understanding of architectural heritage, we appreciate Pinole's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that protect the city's distinctive character.

Our experience working with communities like Pinole has taught us that effective lighting can enhance safety while respecting historical ambiance. We're committed to serving as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations and seeking solutions that complement Pinole's architectural history.

Bock's expertise in energy-efficient, dark-sky compliant lighting aligns with Pinole's sustainability goals. We understand the importance of preserving the nighttime character of historic areas while providing appropriate illumination for modern needs.

Conclusion

Pinole's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring public safety and environmental responsibility. By requiring downward-directed, shielded lighting with appropriate illumination levels, the city maintains its distinctive nighttime atmosphere while providing adequate light for security and navigation.

Property owners should consult Chapter 17.46 of Pinole's Zoning Code when planning lighting installations to ensure compliance with these standards. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to Pinole's efforts to balance growth and preservation while maintaining its unique community character.