4. Lighting Standards OrdinanceTri-City Planning Office
17 second Street East — suite 211
Kalispell, Montana 59901
Phone, (406) 751-1850
Fax: (406) 7514$58
tricity@centurytel.net
www.tricitypianning-mt.com
REPORT TO: Kalispell Mayor and City Council
FROM: Narda A. Wilson, Senior Planner
James H. Patrick, City Manager
SUBJECT Kalispell Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment -
Lighting Standards
MEETING DATE: TBA
BACKGROUND: This is a request by the City of Kalispell to consider changes to the
Kalispell Zoning Ordinance text to develop lighting standards for residential and
commercial development. The Kalispell City Council directed the Kalispell City Planning
Board to draft a set of lighting standards. The draft document presented for public hearing
was the result of several months of research and work sessions on the part of the planning
board and staff. This amendment was initiated at the request of the Kalispell City Council
in response to citizens concerns. At the public hearing there were several people who
spoke in favor of the proposed standards citing quality of life, safety, the Astronomy Club's
interest in dark skies for viewing, and energy conservation and efficiency. There were some
eitcre*¢etinnc frnm the niihiir- rPuarriinsr an artivi� Qr�fnrr r>rnant nrncTrnrn vz th rPcrarri +r,
....,.ate.,....._..__,.. _.......... ---- r-.-T....... _„�._.._..._ -a .....s ......�_.,. ..a�s..._.,..,�.�..a�.. ..�.,....,b5....... ...,
lighting and light heights.
The Kalispell Planning Board held a public hearing on April 12, 2005. After the public
hearing the board discussed the issues, the ordinance and the work they had done,
including the recommendation to the council to consider the mercury vapor light
replacement, the enforcement process and height limits. A motion was made and passed
on a unanimous vote to recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the Kalispell Zoning
Ordinance be amended to include lighting standards as outlined in Exhibit A attached to
the letter of transmittal.
The Kalispell Planning Board is also making a recommendation to the Kalispell City
Council that the replacement of the mercury vapor lights be done in coordination with the
Flathead Electric Cooperative in order to improve the quality of lighting and lighting
efficiency in the community.
RECOMMENDATION: A motion to adopt the first reading of the ordinance to amend the
Kalispell Zoning Ordinance as recommended by the planning board would be in order
FISCAL EFFECTS: To be determined.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested by the city council.
Providing Community Planning Assistance To:
• City of Kalispell • City of Whitefish • City of Columbia Falls
Kalispell Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment - Lighting Standards
April 26, 2005
Page 2
Respectfully submitted,
3
Narda A. Wilson,
Senior Planner
Report compiled: April 26, 2005
c: Theresa White, Kalispell City Clerk
James H. Patrick
City Manager
Attachments: Transmittal letter
Staff report KZTA-05-3 and application. materials
Draft minutes from 4/12/05 planning board meeting
TRANSMIT/ KALISPELL/ 2005KZTA-0503MEMO. D OC
EXHIBIT A
OUTDOOR LIGHTING STANDARDS
PURPOSE AND INTENT: Light pollution obscures the night sky, a resource
important to residents and visitors. Light trespass interferes with the quality of life
and public safety of the community. Standards for outdoor lighting are intended to
control artificial light from non -vehicular sources that produce glare light trespass,
nuisance light and / or degrade the night sky. These standards are intended to
reduce and eliminate nuisance glare and light trespass from poorly placed,
inappropriate, misaligned or improperly shielded light sources. It is the further intent
of these standards to conserve energy and resources as well as to curtail and reverse
the degradation of the night sky through the regulation of the type and use of outdoor
lighting while maintaining night-time safety, utility and security.
APPLICA.BILITY: All residential and commercial lighting whether on public or private
property installed in the city limits of Kalispell shall comply with the requirements
and specifications established with these regulations.
STANDARDS:
1. All lights shall be shielded and directed in such a way as to direct all light toward
the intended area and away from reflective surfaces.
2. Lighting shall be designed, directed and shielded in such a manner that direct
light does not leave the perimeter of the site.
3. All outdoor lighting, including the fixture, pole, and other supporting elements,
shall be designed to complement the overall architectural appearance of the site
and prevent excessive glare.
4. The height and level of lighting should be appropriate for the development Lights
on poles shall not be taller than the building whose area they illuminate nor taller
than 34 feet whichever is less.
5. Roof illumination is not allowed.
b. When practical, timing mechanisms and photo cells shall be used to reduce light
levels and conserve energy during non -operational hours.
7. Lighting mounted on the building should be integrated as an architectural
component. It shall be designed so the light is fully shielded and directed toward
the building.
8. Canopy lighting, such as service station lighting, shall be fully recessed and
shielded to ensure that no light source is visible from or causes glare in the public
right of way or adjacent properties. Any canopy structure used at a business
location must have recessed lights with diffusers which do not extend below the
surface of the canopy.
Page 5 of 15
9. Low voltage landscape lighting will be allowed provided it is directed toward the
object or building and does not leave the perimeter of the site or contribute to light
trespass.
10. All pole mounted lighting shall have a full cut --off fixture that shall shine a
minimum of 80 degrees below the fixture's horizontal. plane.
11. Mercury vapor lights are prohibited because of the poor color spectrum, light
intensity and inefficient energy use.
12. Low pressure or high pressure sodium lights are encourages rather than the use of
li florescent lights.
13. Light fixtures or lamps shall be shielded or shaded in such a manner so that the
light emitting surface is not visible and to direct incident rays away from all
adjacent property.
14.Any light fixture must be placed in such a manner so that no light emitting surface
is visible from any residential area or public/private roadway, walkway, trail or
other public way when viewed at ground level.
1S.The level of lighting shall not exceed 0.3 foot candles at any residential property
line or 0.5 foot candles at any non-residential property line.
16. Strings of lights used to highlight a sign, the perimeter of a sign or any portion of a
building or site are not permitted except for Christmas -type decorative lighting
xxzav be displayed between November 1 and February 1.
17. Floodlights shall have external shielding and shall be directed and angled so that
no light is visible above a 20 degree angle and shall not shine onto any adjacent
public right of way or adjacent property.
18.Any interior lighted signs may not be lit at night when any face of the sign is
removed or damaged in such a way that the light may distract or intrude on
drivers or adjacent properties.
19. Signs that have exterior lighting must be lit from above the sign and the light
shielded except that ground lighting may be used for ground mounted signs with a
solid base. In all cases lighting must be directed at the surface of the sign area.
SPECIFIC USES:
Security Lighting for Commercial and Residential Uses: Security lighting is defined as
lighting designed and used to discourage crime and undesirable activity which
includes parking lot lighting.
1. Security lighting should use the lowest possible illumination to effectively allow
surveillance.
Page 6 of 15
2. The use of sensor technologies, timers or other means to activate lighting
during times when it will be needed may be required by the zoning
administrator to conserve energy, provide safety, and promote compatibility
between different land uses.
3. Both commercial and residential security lighting shall be shielded so the light
source is not visible and the light is aimed so that illumination is directed to
the designated areas. All non -essential exterior commercial lighting is to be
turned off after business hours.
Architectural Accent Lighting:
1. Fixtures used to accent architectural features, materials, colors, style of
buildings, landscaping, or art shall be located, aimed and shielded so that light
is directed only on those features. Such fbtures shall be aimed or shielded to
minimize light spill into the dark night sky in conformance with the lummaire
standards.
2. Lighting fixtures shall not generate excessive light levels, cause glare, or direct
light beyond the facade onto neighboring property, streets or the night sky.
Canopy Lighting and Lighting of Service Stations: In addition to the general
standards previously listed, the following also apply.
Lighting of such areas shall not be used to attract attention to the business.
Lighting levels shall be adequate to facilitate the activities taking place in such
locations. In order to minimize the extent of direct --lare, light fixtures mounted
on canopies shall be recessed so that the lens cover is recessed or flush with
the bottom surface (ceiling) of the canopy or shielded by the fixture or the edge
of the canopy so that light is restrained to 85 degrees or less from vertical.
2. As an alternative (or supplement) to recessed ceiling lights, indirect lighting
may be used where light is beamed upward and then reflected down from the
underside of the canopy. When this method is used, light fixtures must be
shielded so that direct illumination is focused exclusively on the underside of
the canopy.
3. Lights shall not be mounted on the top or sides (fascias) of the canopy. The
sides (fascias of the canopy) shall not be illuminated in a manner.
Outdoor Sports or Recreation Fields or Performance Areas.
1. Lighting of outdoor recreational facilities (public or private), such as, but not
limited to, football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, softball fields, tennis
courts, special event or show areas, shall use fixtures with a full -cutoff lens.
2. Lights are to be used only when the field is in use.
Flags of the United States or Montana may be illuminated from below provided such
lighting is focused primarily on the individual flag or flags to limit light trespass and
Page 7 of 15
spill into the dark night sky. Flags are encouraged to be taken down at sunset to
avoid the need for lighting.
Searchlights. The operation of searchlights for any purpose other than an emergency
need is prohibited.
Towers. Lighting on towers is prohibited except as required by regulations of the
Federal Aviation Administration.
REVIEW PROCEDURE: At the time of site plan approval by the Kalispell Site
Development Review Committee the applicant must supply a lighting plan in
accordance with these regulations and shall demonstrate conformance with these
standards. At a minimum the lighting plan shall include:
1. Manufacturer specifications regarding the light fixture, proposed locations,
mounting heights and direction of al exterior lighting.
2. If the building, signage or landscaping is proposed to be lit, relevant drawings
shall be provided showing the type, location and direction of the light fixture.
3. If needed, additional information may be required by the site development
review committee in order to demonstrate compliance with these regulations
which may include photometric data of all lighting and other descriptive
information on the fixtures and / or a computer generated photometric grid
showing footcandle reading every 10 feet within the property or site and ten feet
beyond the property boundaries.
NON -CONFORMING LIGHTING
Lighting for commercial uses including but not limited to parking lot and building
lighting that does not conform to these regulations shall be brought into compliance
within five years of the effective date of the adoption of these regulations or by June 1,
2010 or when the light fixtures are removed or replaced whichever occurs first.
Residential lighting that does not conform to these regulations shall be brought into
compliance within six months of the adoption of these regulations or by January 1,
2006 or when the light fixtures are removed or replaced whichever occurs first.
DEFINITIONS, FIGURES AND TABLES: The attached definitions figures and tables
are incorporated as guidelines for public information and enforcing this section.
Page 8 of 15
DEFINITIONS
1. Canopy structure: Any overhead protective structure which is constructed in such
a manner as to allow pedestrians/vehicles to pass under.
2. Fixture: The assembly that holds a lamp and may include an assembly housing, a
mounting bracket or pole socket, a lamp holder, a ballast, a reflector or mirror,
and a refractor or lens
3. Foot candle: A unit of illumination produced on a surface, all points of which are
one foot from a uniform point source of one candle. Originally the measure of the
amount of light emitted by a candle onto one square foot of surface one foot away,
footcandles are now the standard unit of measuring light. A footcandle is equal to
one lurnen per square feet.
4. Glare: Direct light emitted by a luminaire that causes reduced vision or
momentary blindness.
5. Illuminance: The level of light measured at a surface.
6. Lamp: The component of a luminaire that produces the light.
7. Light direct: Light emitted directly by a lamp, off a reflector, or through a refractor
of a luminaires
8. Light emitting surface: Any part of a fixture (lamp, diffusor) which emits light rays.
9. Light pollution: General slay glow caused by the scattering of artificial light in the
atmosphere, much of which is caused by poorly -designed luminaries.
Ip. Light shield: Any attachment which interrupts and blocks the path of light emitted
from a luminaire or fixture.
11. Light trespass: Light emitted by a luminaire that shines beyond the boundaries of
the property on which the luminaire is located.
19 3 .iirne-n• A unit of measure -menu of luminous f ux.
13. Luminaire: The complete lighting system, including the lamp and the fixture.
14. Luzninaire full cutoff: A luminaire that allows no direct light emissions above a
horizontal plane through the luminaire's lowest light -emitting part.
15. Luminaire permanent outdoor: Any fixed luminaire or system of luminaries that is
outdoors and this is intended to be used for seven (7) days or longer.
16. Lux The international standard unit for measuring light levels (as oppose to Foot -
Candle in the U.S.A). It is one lumen per square meter. (See Lumens and Foot -
Candle).
17. Wattage: the amount of electrical power consumed by a lamp or light fixture
measured in "watts". One watt is equal to the power dissipated by 1 ampere of
electrical current flowing across a resistance of 1 ohm or the power produced by 1
ampere of electrical current under an electromotive force of 1 volt. One horsepower
is equal to 746 watts. Formulae: watts = volts x amps, P = V x 1, electrical power
electromotive force x electric current.
Page 9 of 15
Lighting Fixture Types
�,. --- -___..__
f
r E t
raauwns • �rau�rr=a
H' Prru Q*Qlf F%b- PAe%* Shmft"
thmuhEasrl; q-WiM€fitvteib4al
e
� I
FNIU49 4 MOSS
Shbldad UnahWded vjM Qmqua '%P
(eas t4m 376 kmm%)
1 ,
p70UWfi e
Angle e ;?C= U; ht
wHh ev*mel 3mre+.02
FIGIIAN 7
Direoftnd =Iota Lipp€
Page 10 of 15
V&M is a True FuH Cutoff outdoor Lighting Fixture?
l?lat glass lens, elit irides as m ni:rse dam glare, no crpwa d tlaow of ligtrt. Um housing for
Ihm OM= areavailable inmany styles.
Same fixture as above moumtcd inosrreetfy — defeating #Ire horizontal mmating design. The fuh4v
now urodueas direct elam and can also ureduce unlizht at stecucr rmnunftz au¢les.
�Q
No
Known as just "Cutoff" Center "drop" or ,.sag° lens with or without exposed hulb, produces direct glare.
Page 11 of 15
Al
X
asiv",& liM3
Bmavaywoughb
Top-
B
sa
Wyk
Y
k
kY
d
�
6
Y
�
d
E
Post-p Lamp
Owp tt a ttsp)
Page 12 of 15
' @ �
Tyl," Ivan I%a. ...
T3pAITard LgW
..
Tyl,kal41"a�pr( m».)
. �
* /}! %
AmFkadtied«idtHood
Page 13 of 15
INITIAL RATED LIGHT OUTPUT OF VARIOUS LAMPS*
LAMP TYPE LAMP WATTAGE
INITIAL LUMEN
OUTPUT
INCANDESCENT LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
25
235
INCANDESCENT LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
40
375
INCANDESCENT LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
60
890
INCANDESCENT LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
100
1690
INCANDESCENT LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
150
2850
INCANDESCENT FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
75
765
INCANDESCENT FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
120
1500
INCANDESCENT FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
150
2000
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
42
665
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
52
885
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
72
1300
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
300
6000
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
500
10500
QUARTZ HALOGEN LAMP (FROSTED) (Syl.)
1000
21000
QUARTZ HALOGEN MINI FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
(12 volt MR-16 type)
20
260
QUARTZ HALOGEN MINI FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
(12 volt MR-16 type)
42
630
QUARTZ HALOGEN MINI FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
(12 volt MR-16 type)
50
895
QUARTZ HALOGEN MINI FLOOD OR SPOT (G.E.)
(12 volt MR-16 type)
75
1300
FLORESCENT LAMP (Phillips)
7
400
FLORESCENT LAMP (Phillips)
9
600
FLORESCENT LAMP (Phillips)
13
900
FLORESCENT LAMP (Phillips)
22
1200
FLORESCENT LAMP (Phillips)
28
1600
FLORESCENT LAMP (G.E. cool white)
40
3150
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
18
1800
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
35
4800
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
55
8000
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
90
13500
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
135
22500
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (Phillips)
180
33000
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
35
2250
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
50
4000
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (.DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
70
6400
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
100
9500
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
150
16000
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
250
27500
Page 14 of 15
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (DIFFUSE) (G.E.)
400
50000
MERCURY VAPOR LAMP (WHITE DELUXE) (Syl.)
100
4500
MERCURY VAPOR LAMP (WHITE DELUXE) (Syl.)
175
8500
MERCURY VAPOR LAMP (WHITE DELUXE) (Syl.)
200
11100
MERCURY VAPOR LAMP (WHITE DELUXE) (Syl.)
400
20100
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (G.E.)
32
2500
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (Venture)
50
3400
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (G.E.)
100
9000
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (G.E.)
175
15750
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (G.E.)
250
20500
METAL HALIDE LAMP (Coated) (G.E.)
400
36000
* Information from Sylvania #PL-150, General Electric #9200 and Phillips #SG-100 large
lamp catalog
Page 15 of 15
Tri-City Planning Office
17 Second Street East - Suite 211
Kalispell, Montana 59901
Phone: (406) 751-1850
Fax: (406) 751-1858
tricitygeentn rytel. net
April 26, 2005
James H. Patrick, City Manager
City of Kalispell
P.O. Box 1997
Kalispell, MT 59903
Re: Kalispell Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment - Lighting Standards
Dear Jinn:
The Kalispell City Planning Board met on April 12, 2005 and held a public hearing to
consider a request by the City of Kalispell for changes to the Kalispell Zoning
Ordinance text to develop lighting standards for residential, and commercial
development. The Kalispell City Council directed the Kalispell City Planning Board to
draft a set of lighting standards. The draft document presented for public hearing was
the result of several months of research and work sessions on the part of the planning
board and staff.
Narda Wilson of the Tri-City Planning Office, presented staff report #KZTA-05-3
evaluating the proposal and recommended approval of the amendments outlined in
Exhibit A of the staff report. She explained this amendment was initiated at the
request of the Kalispell City Council and the result of many months of hard work by
the planning board. At the public hearing there were several people who spoke in
favor of the proposed standards citing quality of life, safety, the Astronomy Club's
interest in dark skies for viewing, and energy conservation and efficiency. There were
some suggestions from the public regarding an active enforcement program with
regard to lighting and light heights.
The board discussed the issues the ordinance and the work they had done, including
the recommendation to the council to consider the mercury vapor light replacement,
the enforcement process and height limits. A motion was made and passed on a
unanimous vote to recommend to the Kalispell City Council that the Kalispell Zoning
Ordinance be amended to include lighting standards as outlined in attached Exhibit A.
Please schedule this matter for the May 2, 2005 regular Kalispell City Council
meeting. You may contact this board or Narda Wilson at the Tri-City Planning Office if
you have any questions regarding this matter.
Providing Community Planning Assistance To:
• City of Kalispell • City of Columbia Falls • City of Whitefish •
DISCUSSION
Schutt said it is a reasonable requirement to put in, and you
can make it work, but his objection is to the density rather
than the sloughing.
E - j
ROLL CALL - AMENDMENT
The amendment passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
ROLL CALL - MAIN
The wain motion passed 5-1 on a roll call vote.
MOTION
MOTION
j Norton moved and Gabriel seconded to adopt Staff Report
KPP-05-4 as findings of fact and recornmend to the Kalispell 11
City Council that the preliminary plat approval for Granary
Ridge Townhomes be approved subject to the listed
conditions with Condition 6 amended and Condition 23
added.
BOARD DISCUSSION
There was no discussion.
ROLL CALL
The motion tied 3-3 on a roll call vote with Gabriel, Taylor
and Norton voting for and Hull, Schutt and Hinchey voting
E i
against.
j DISCUSSION
There was discussion about how to handle the split vote.
I
Wilson said it could go on to the City Council on the 3-3 vote.
Another option is for the Board to amend the plat.
Schutt said he does not want to redesign the project.
71flf'1}'f+Trz*r
XVJLW a AWAX
LT-11 ,..3 .... A rn.,�,l-- .-...J-A +i-. ..+ 1 ii :+.-. ..,+,...-. ..5 ,.f 1 G
liUu moved and 1C1ylo, sec -ended that, 14 units 111.SLUOU U1 1LJ
units be built, with only four units on the east boundary.
DISCUSSION
Norton stated we should not be subdesigning this project
and it should be sent on to Council as is.
E
Taylor stated this could solve the density issues they are
having, and this is still a quality development.
' Hinchey said he is comfortable with sending it on to Council
as it is.
i
ROLL CALL AMENDMENT
The motion tied 3-3 on a roll call vote with Taylor, Hull and
Hinchey voting for and Norton, Schutt and Gabriel voting
against.
CITY OF KALISPELL
A request by the City of Kalispell for a zoning text
ZONING TEXT
amendment to develop lighting standards that would apply I
AMENDMENT REQUEST
to residential and commercial properties in the City limits.
STAFF REPORT XZTA-05-3
Narda Wilson, with the Tri-City Planning Office, gave a li
presentation of Staff Report KZTA-05-3, a request by the City
of Kalispell to develop lighting standards that would apply to
residential and commercial properties in the City limits.
Kalispell City Planning Board
?Minutes of the ineeting of April 12_ 1-005
Passe 1-5 of 18
Wilson. stated that the Planning Board undertook this at the
request of the City Council and citizen groups' concerns
about the lighting standards for commercial and residential
1
developments. She said the Planning Board did a lot of work
3 on this issue, with the goal of protecting the night sky,
j reducing trespass light, and benefiting the overall quality of
life in the community; this issue has raised everyone's
! awareness. She stated that these are new standards, and
that staff is recommending the lighting standards attached
as Exhibit A be included in the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance.
a
QUESTIONS BY THE
Schutt commented that lumens is the amount of light at the
BOAR)
fixture, and footcandles is the amount of light a distance
E
j away.
�
PUBLIC HEARING
The public hearing was opened to those who wished to speak
i
on the issue.
I
APPLICANTS/AGENCIES
No comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Mark Paulson, 1045 3rd Avenue West, president of the Big
Sky Astronomy Club, thanked the staff and the Board for
their efforts to product this ordinance. He said he has seen a E
lot of changes in the valley, and he has a special interest in
this matter, but there are many reasons to have an
ordinance like this. He said the issue has come to the
forefront in the last few years and light pollution and glare is
prominent and widespread now; his group decided not to
press for an ordinance, but they did want to promote quality
lighting. They wanted to promote positive lighting to ,
developers as opposed to forcing someone to do something
and they developed a Quality Lighting Award to give to
businesses who do this on their own. He said they embraced
I
the efforts of the Planning Board and City Council to install a
workable ordinance to accomplish Dark Sky goals and not be
too intrusive. He said this is a complete and comprehensive
first draft and praised Wilson for her work. He said for too
long Montana has been the Big Sky Country only in the
daytime and it should be so at night as well.
Bob Gembolis, 1980 Pine Grove Lane, stated he wanted to
emphasize the part about glare; it is difficult to see at night.
1.
He said that glare and safety are very important, and you
cannot see when a light is shining in your eyes.
I
Jackie Keyser, 545 2nd Avenue East, stated that there is no E
mounting height limit on fixtures on residential units on
homes. She stated that No. 14 on the old draft should be
edited to say "mounting height of fixtures in residential areas
should not exceed 10 feet". (new draft No. 13) She also stated
she was afraid that this is not goingto be enforced, and we
Kaiispeli City Planning Board
Ytinwes of the meeting of April 12, 2005
Page 16 of 18
should be proactive and not reactive and should be
educating people as to what they need to do. She said that
all light is cumulative, and she would like to see an
education brocess before the six month x)eriod is over.
Bruce Ruby, 105 Spring Creek Road, Somers, asked how the
public will know there is an ordinance should this pass, and
stated that he is all for it.
Russ Lucas, 117 Sunburst Court, stated he has the same
bias because he is in the astronomy club, but it is a matter
of aesthetics too and it is a wonderful, thing to see stars. He
said we have lost stars here and we have the technology to
block the bad light for our telescopes, but that does not help
our eyes. He said you need to see the beauty that is above
you. He stated the City should not demand that businesses
comply, but use a cost and safety standpoint; it is cheaper to
use good lighting.
No one else wished to speak and the public hearing was
closed.
MOTION ; Schutt moved and Hinchey seconded to adopt Staff Report
KZTA-05-3 as findings of fact and, based on these findings,
j recommend to the Kalispell City Council that lighting
i standards be included in the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance.
BOARS] DISCUSSION Taylor asked about the suggestion that residential height
restrictions
ilvAA a3 ue u.,u, AA-. ao..a,
Norton said he feels it has been addressed and it has already
been covered.
Schutt stated that using the standards of footcandles at the
property line, he feels the height is okay as long as the
neighbors aren't bothered.
Hinchey said enforcement is tricky and the clearer you make
it the better off you are.
Taylor suggested going with what we have, and amending it
as necessary later.
Schutt asked Wilson about the enforcement of nuisance
neighborhood lights.
Wilson said they will use spot complaints with residential
areas and deal with those fires, but that commercial,
multifamily and multi -family developments will be reviewed
as part of the site development review process.
Wilson noted a list needs to be made of the businesses that
Kalispeil City Planning Board
Minutes of the meeting or April 1?_ 1005
Paee 17 of 18
are noncompliant now and they will be formally notified of
the new regulations.
Norton suggested placing a notice in the community
newsletter and that the Big Sky Astronomy Club notify the
newspapers, etc. that this has assed.
ROLL CALL
The motion passed unanimously on a roll call. vote.
OLD BUSINESS
There was no old business.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.
I
ADJOURNMENT 'The
meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:15 p.m. A
special meeting of the Kalispell City Planning Board and i
Zoning CoznMission will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2005.
George Taylor
President
Judi Funk
Recording Secretary
APPROVED as submitted/corrected: / /05
Kalispeil City Planning hoard
Minites of the fneetinP- of Aprii 12, 2005
Paf4e 18 or I8
CITY OF KALISPELL
TRI-CITY PLANNING OFFICE
STAFF REPORT #KZTA-05-3
APRIL 6, 2005
This is a report to the Kalispell City Planning Board and the Kalispell City Council
regarding a request for a text amendment to the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance to
develop standards for outdoor lighting. A public hearing has been scheduled before
the planning board for April 12, 2005 beginning at 7:00 PM in the Kalispell City
Council Chambers. The planning board will forward a recommendation to the
Kalispell City Council for final action
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The City of Kalispell is proposing an amendment to the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance
that addresses outdoor lighting standards for commercial and residential
development. The purpose of the amendment is to control artificial light from non -
vehicular sources that produce glare, light trespass, nuisance light or / or degrade
the night sky. It is further the intent of these standards to conserve energy and
resources while maintaining night-time safety, utility and security.
A. Petitioner: ,_Tames H. Patrick, City Manager
City of Kalispell
P.O. Box 1997
Kalispell, MT 59903
(406) 758-7701
B. Area Effected by the Proposed Changes: Any area within the Kalispell zoning
jurisdiction could be effected by these proposed standards.
C. Proposed Amendment: This text amendment includes standards for outdoor
lighting that would apply to both commercial and residential development in
the city limits. It is the intent of these regulations to provide specific standards
for lighting that will avoid light trespass, prevent and curtail the degradation of
the night sky as well as conserve energy. Therefore an additional section is
being recommended to be added to the zoning ordinance under Chapter 27.22,
of the Supplemental Regulations, that outlines standards for lighting, identifies
specific types and uses of lighting, provides an administrative review process
for new commercial development and addresses enforcement and bringing non-
conforming lighting into compliance with the new standards.
The standards as proposed are outlined on attached Exhibit A, Outdoor
Lighting.
D. Staff Discussion: This text amendment was initiated by the Kalispell City
Council in response to citizens concerns and the council's concerns regarding
inappropriate, misdirected or excessive lighting that has resulted in the
diminished quality of life and dark night skies. The Kalispell Planning Board
was directed by the Kalispell City Council to develop lighting standards that
would address concerns related to unwanted light trespass and other light
Page 1 of 15
related issues. The planning board met in work sessions over several months
to develop the standards that are being proposed. The resources used were
orrii-nnnr i-R frnm nth Pr ritie-_ Amerirnn Plnnning ACRnrintlnn nrtirles' ln(i17strV
information, the Dark Sky International Association as well as local citizens
input.
During the several months of work and research on this project the planning
board and staff have come to find that lighting can be a rather complicated
issue and not all lighting types are the same or as effective or as desirable as
another. However, the board feels that they have come up with a fairly
straightforward proposal that a lay person can generally understand. In order
to measure light, a lumen level was established at the perimeter of the site.
The City will need to invest approximately $ 150 or so in a light meter in order
to monitor, enforce and maintain the light standards that are being proposed.
EVALUATION BASED ON STATUTORY CRITERIA
The statutory basis for reviewing a change in zoning is set forth by 76-2-205, M.C.A.
Findings of Fact for the zone change request are discussed relative to the itemized
criteria described by 76-2-203, M.C.A.
1. Does the requested zone comply with the growth olic ?
The growth policy generally anticipates use of development standards that will
conserve and protect the quality of life of the citizens of its community. The
lighting standards being proposed are intended to further this goal and thus
the proposed amendment will generally promote the goals and objectives of the
g'i u vv
2. Is the requested zone designed to lessen con e� stion in the streets?
The proposed amendment will not typically have a significant impact on traffic
congestion in the streets since lighting is not related to land use or level of
traffic that would be generated. This amendment will not affect overall traffic
patterns, amount of traffic in an area, or contribute to traffic congestion.
3. Will the requested zone secure safety from fire anic and other dangers?
The proposed amendment would not reduce any security from fire or other
health and safety issues since the standards are intended to maintain night-
time security and safety as well as to protect the night sky. There would be no
compromise with regard to public safety.
4. Will the requested change promote the health and_general welfare?
The general health and welfare of the public will be promoted by creating
standards for lighting that avoids glare, trespass, poorly placed or directed
lighting that can diminish the quality of life as well as the general health and
safety of the community.
Page 2 of 15
S. Will the requested zone provide for adequate light and air?
i;r�3.4rirl a;r }1PZxTPPYI and c»rrnanriina 1itilrlittac urn3flr1 not he altPrer1 nr
impacted by the proposed text amendment.
6. Will the requested zone prevent the overcrowding..of land or undue
concentration of people?
The proposed change would not increase the intensity of uses currently allowed
within the zoning districts since the proposed change does not deal with land
uses per se but rather lighting standards.
7. Will the requested zone facilitate the adequate provision of transportation,
water, sewerage, schools arks and other public requirements?
The amendment would not impact the availability of public services. This text
amendment will not have any adverse impact on the availability or provision of
public services and utilities.
8. Does the requested zone give. consideration to the particular suitability of the
property for particular uses?
The lighting standards were crafted with consideration being given to the
specific applications of lighting for specific uses and gives adequate
consideration to the suitability of the standards.
9. Does the requested zone give reasonable consideration to the character of the
Ulm lJ. lu L
The character of the area in which the lighting standards are applied will be
maintained and promoted by lighting that does not degrade, visually impact or
devalue the overall quality of life within those neighborhoods. By providing
lighting standards in the commercial as well as residential areas, reasonable
consideration is given to protection of the character of a district.
10. Will the proposed zone conserve the value of buildings?
The lighting standards will not only conserve the value of buildings but will
conserve the quality of life within the community in both the residential and
commercial area. The building values will be conserved by promoting and
encouraging reasonable standards within these districts. These amendments
will conserve the value of buildings.
Page 3 of 15
11. Will the requested zone encourage_ the most appropriate use of the land
throughout the jurisdiction?
The most appropriate land uses throughout the jurisdiction are promoted by
encouraging reasonable design standards that promote the general well-being
of all citizens of the community. These changes will not only encourage
appropriate land uses through the planning jurisdiction, but will also provide
greater opportunities for the enjoyment of the visual elements of the night sky
in a safe and healthy environment.
Staff recommends that the Kalispell City Planning Board adopt the findings in staff
report KZTA-05-3 and recommend to the Kalispell City Council that lighting
standards be included in the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance as shown on attached.
Exhibit A.
IMM
Page 4 of 15
TO ALL CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS, THE MAYOR, THE CITY MANAGER
FROM JACKIE KIESER
SUBJECT:TIGHTENING THE DRAFT LIGHTING ORDINANCE
IN GENERAL, THIS IS A VERY WELL DONE ORDINANCE. NARDA WILSON HAS DONE AN
OUTSTANDING JOB IN A VERY SHORT PERIOD OF TIME -AMAZING, CONSIDERING THE
EXTENT OF HER DUTIES, HOWEVER, I DID DIS-AGREE WITH THE PLANNING BOARD ON
SEVERAL ISSUES, AND FEEL WE SHOULDN'T RUSH THIS DOCUMENT THROUGH WITHOUT
FIRST DOING SOME TWEAKING. THE TAXPAYERS SHOULD NOT HAVE TO READ BETWEEN
THE LINES AND GUESS AT W14AT IS EXPECTED OF THEM.
#1 NUMBER THREE TALKS ABOUT THE MOUNTING HEIGHT OF LIGHTS ON POLES. IT
DOES NOT ADDRESS THE MOUNTING HEIGHT ON HOMES OR GARAGES. IT SHOULD BE
CLEAR TO HOMEOWNERS THAT A LIGHT MOUNTED ON A HOME NEAR THE TOP WILT.
NOT MEET CODE. I PROPOSE THAT A SECTION BE ADDED TO THE DRAFT THAT STATES
THAT A LIGHT MAY BE MOUNTED I FOOT ABOVE THE GARAGE DOOR, AND THAT ALL
LIGHTS MOUNTED ON A HOME SHALL NOT EXCEED 10 FEET. THE USE OF MOTION LIGHTS
IS ENCOURAGED IN BOTH CASES.
#2 WE ARE ASKING FOR COMPLIANCE FROM COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES IN 5 YEARS.
THAT IS A LONG TIME, AS THE MOMENTUM MAY DISAPPEAR. I HAVE ALSO JUST FOUND
OUT THAT THE COST OF REPLACING EACH POLE COULD RUN AROUND $2,000.00. AS WE
HAVE NO DESIRE TO RAISE THE COST OF ANYONE'S GROCERIES, A GOOD COMPROMISE
WOULD BE TO OFFER THEM THE CHOICE OF CONVERTING THE EXISTING LIGHTS WITH A
SHIELD THAT WOULD CONVERT THEM TO FULL CUT OFF WITHIN ONE YEAR, OR WITHIN
THREE YEARS FOR A FULL REPLACEMENT. WHITEFISH IS CONSIDERING GRANTING AN
EXTENSION TO ANY BUSINESS WHO APPEALS DIRECTLY TO THE CITY COUNCIL AND
MEETA MEANS TEST OF SOME SORT. I FEEL THAT THIS WILL KEEP THE ISSUE OUT
FRONT DURING THIS CONVERSION PROCESS.
#3 AFTER STREET LIGHTING, PARKING LOTS ARE THE MAJOR PROBLEM. I STRONGLY
FEEL THAT THE INSURANCE COMPANIES ARE DICTATING TO US IN THE NAME OF
SECURITY. I WAS TOLD BY A REALTOR/DEVELOPER THAT THE LOTS HAD TO BE LIT IN
THE DARK HOURS BECAUSE SOMEONE MIGHT ENTER THE PROPERTY AND HIT A CURB. I
SAY, W14Y DO WE 14AVE HEADLIGHTS? WHY DO THEY HAVE TO BE ON ALL NIGHT LONG?
WHY CAN'T THE FIRST ROW BE LIT FOR NIGHTIME EMPLOYEE'S SAFETY, AND TO CAST
SOME LIGHT ON THE BUILDING TO SPOT HOOLIGANS. THE REST COULD BE DIMMED OR
TURNED OFF ENTIRELY.
#4 ENFORCEMENT. WE SHOULD BE PRO ACTIVE RATHER THAN REACTIVE WHEN IT
COMES TO ENFORCEMENT. RESIDENTIAL LIGHTING SHOULD NOT BE TREATED AS
JUST A NUISANCE, AND DRIVEN ONLY BY COMPLAINT. ALL LIGHTING IS CUMULATIVE
AND IMPORTANT. A SINGLE CODE OFFICER WILL BE OVERWHELMED AT FIRST, AND
HAVE TO WORK AFTER DARK WITH HIS LIGHT METER. I SUGGEST A SIMPLE DOORKNOB
HANGER SUCH AS THE WATER DEPARTMENT USES TO NOTIFY THE OFFENDER THAT HE
HAS 30 DAYS TO COMPLY. A VOLUNTEER COULD PERFORM THAT TASK. I ALSO SUGGEST
AN EDUCATIONAL BROCHURE THAT COULD -BE MAILED OUT WITH THE WATER BILLS OR
THE CO-OP BILLS EXPLAINING WHAT THE REQUIREMENTS ARE.
THIS ORDINANCE WILL GO INTO EFFECT DURING OUR LONGEST DAYS OF DAYLIGHT.
MOST FOLKSWON'T BE NOTICING LIGHTS UNTIL AROUND H.ALLOWEEN. THERE SHOULD
BE MUCH I?UBLICITY AROUND THAT TIME.
THANK -YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION IN THIS MOST IMPORTANT MATTER,
JACKIE KIESER