New outdoor lighting standards in effect in Superior

The Town of Superior recently adopted a new Outdoor Lighting Ordinance that is currently in effect.

The new standards require lighting to be:

• Downcast
• Fewer than 1600 lumens (approximately a 100-watt bulb) from a single source
• Located below the eave line or parapet wall
• Shielded from casting light onto neighboring residences or rights-of-way
• Prevented from casting more than 1 lux over the property line
• Extinguished between 9 p.m. and sunrise if nonessential
• Turned off or dimmed after 5 minutes if motion-activated

For clarification, the ordinance states that nonessential lighting refers to decorative or aesthetic outdoor lighting that is not necessary for the safety or security of individuals and property. This includes landscape lighting, decorative lighting, illuminated signage or advertising after business hours, and facade lighting.

Please be aware that all existing lighting that does not comply with the new lighting standards is considered legally nonconforming. Property owners must bring nonconforming fixtures into conformance upon replacement and should modify them where practicable (e.g., dimmed, shielded, etc.).

Exceptions to the new lighting standards include the following:

• Public roads, streets, and sidewalks
• Underwater in swimming pools and water features
• Temporary lights less than or equal to 70 lumens on display from Nov. 15 through Jan. 15

If you have questions or concerns regarding these new lighting standards, please reach out to the Planning Department at planning@superiorcolorado.gov.