The purpose of these regulations is to protect and promote the public health, safety and welfare, the quality of life, and the ability to view the night sky, by establishing regulations and a process for review of exterior lighting. This article establishes standards for exterior lighting in order to accomplish the following:
A. To provide safe streets for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, and ensure that sufficient lighting can be provided where needed to promote safety and security;
B. To minimize the effects of direct glare and excessive lighting;
C. To protect the ability to view the night sky, and help preserve the quality of life and the tourist experience;
D. To prevent light trespass in all areas of the city;
E. To promote energy efficient and cost effective lighting in all areas of the city;
F. To allow for flexibility in the style of lighting fixtures;
G. To define practical and effective measures by which the obtrusive aspects of outdoor light usage can be minimized, and provide lighting practices that direct the appropriate amount of light where and when it is needed;
H. To provide assistance to property owners and occupants in bringing nonconforming lighting into conformance with this article; and
I. To work with other jurisdictions within Blaine County to meet the purposes of this article, including supporting cooperation on efforts and goals of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. (Ord. 382, 10-25-2006; amd. Ord. 543, 9-3-2020)