Lighting Regulations in Raton, New Mexico: A Guide to Property and Site Illumination Requirements

Introduction: Lighting in the Gateway to the Southwest

Nestled at the foot of Raton Pass, the historic city of Raton, New Mexico has served as a vital transportation hub since its founding in 1879. Originally established when the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway purchased a local toll road, Raton quickly became a bustling center for railroads, mining, and ranching in northeastern New Mexico.

Today, Raton's regulations reflect a balance between modern development needs and the preservation of its unique character as a historic southwestern community. The city's approach to lighting aims to ensure safety and functionality while respecting its distinctive heritage and the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here's a summary of Raton's most important lighting regulations:

• Parking Lots: Must be arranged so light doesn't shine beyond lot boundaries
• Nighttime Parking: Requires lighting with shields to prevent glare onto residential properties
• Airport Zones: No lighting that creates confusion with airport lights or causes glare for pilots
• Excavations: Red lights required at night (number depends on length)
• Security Lighting: Available through R.P.S. with specific installation and rate options
• Signs: Illumination regulations vary by sign type, with specific rules for projecting wall signs
• Development Plans: Must show proposed lighting arrangements

Property and Site Lighting Requirements

Parking Area Illumination

Raton has specific requirements for lighting in parking areas:

• Directional Control: Lighting must be arranged so as not to shine off the lot
• Nighttime Parking Areas:
• Must be illuminated if used after dark
• Shields required to prevent direct glare into adjacent residential properties
• Engineering Standards: Must meet standards established by the Planning and Zoning Department from generally accepted engineering practices

Security Lighting Programs

Raton provides security lighting options for property owners:

• Availability: Open to residential, commercial, and industrial customers
• Installation Options:
• $85 one-time charge for lights on existing poles (power available within 150 feet)
• $265 one-time charge for new pole and light installation (power available within 150 feet)
• $190 additional charge per pole if power isn't available within 150 feet

Monthly Rate Options:

• Rate 1 (existing customers): Customer-owned fixture with R.P.S. power
• $5.14/month plus adjustments and taxes (gross)
• $4.63/month plus adjustments and taxes (net)
• Owner responsible for parts and servicing
• Rate 2: R.P.S.-owned fixture with customer-provided power
• $7.12/month plus taxes (gross)
• $6.41/month plus taxes (net)
• R.P.S. provides parts and service

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Airport Zone Requirements

Properties near the airport must follow special lighting guidelines:

• No confusion lighting: Uses that make it difficult to distinguish between airport lights and others are prohibited
• Glare prevention: No uses that result in glare affecting pilots using the airport

Construction and Excavation Lighting

Safety lighting is required for construction activities:

• Excavations under 10 feet in length: 1 red light required
• Excavations 10-50 feet: 2 red lights (one at each end)
• Excavations over 50 feet: 1 additional light for each additional 50 feet
• Operating hours: All safety lights must remain burning throughout the night

Animal Housing Illumination

• Outdoor animal housing must have sufficient lighting provided by either natural or artificial means

Sign Illumination Standards

Types of Illuminated Signs

Raton recognizes several categories of illuminated signage:

• Illuminated Signs: Any sign lighted by artificial lighting, either by lights on or internal to the sign or directed towards it
• Animated Signs: Signs using movement or changing lighting to depict action or create special effects
• Beacons: Lights with beams directed into the atmosphere or at points not on the same zone

Illumination Guidelines

• Projecting Wall Signs: May use internal and/or indirect or direct illumination
• Surface Illumination: Signs with surface illumination shall only be illuminated from above

Planning and Development Requirements

Documentation Requirements

When submitting plans for development, lighting information must be included:

• Planned Unit Development: Applications must show proposed lighting of the premises
• Utilities Documentation: Plans must show location of street lights on and adjacent to the tract
• Special Conditions: The Zoning Authority may impose specific conditions on "design and placement of outdoor lighting and signs"

Municipal Agreements

• The City has arrangements for street lighting where "the Company shall furnish to the City all electric energy needed by the City for...street lighting and for general municipal purposes...without requiring payment therefor from the City, as a franchise fee."

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Considerations

Understanding Raton's lighting regulations helps ensure your property meets local requirements:

• Focus on containment: The common theme in Raton's regulations is keeping light where it belongs
• Shield your lights: Particularly when adjacent to residential areas
• Include lighting in plans: When submitting development proposals, detailed lighting plans are required
• Safety first: Construction areas have specific lighting requirements that must be followed

When Planning New Projects

Before installing new lighting on your property:

• Check zoning: Special conditions may apply in different zones
• Consider neighbors: Direct light away from residential properties
• Document thoroughly: Include lighting details in all permit applications
• Explore security options: R.P.S. offers several security lighting programs

Supporting Raton's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the unique character of historic communities like Raton. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate cities that value their architectural heritage while addressing modern needs.

We recognize Raton's position as a historic southwestern transportation hub with distinctive character. Our experience with communities that balance safety, functionality, and historic preservation makes us a helpful resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations.

Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with communities seeking to preserve their unique identity. Our expertise in regional architectural styles and lighting needs can help maintain the character that makes Raton special.

Conclusion

Raton's lighting regulations focus primarily on preventing light trespass, ensuring safety, and maintaining the city's character. While not as extensive as some municipalities, the requirements emphasize proper shielding, appropriate placement, and consideration for neighboring properties.

By understanding and following these guidelines, property owners can contribute to Raton's efforts to preserve its historic character while ensuring safe, functional lighting throughout the community.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property, contact Raton's Planning and Zoning Department for the most current information and guidance.