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HomeMy WebLinkAboutbocc.ord.004.2025 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO ADOPTING TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE 2006 PITKIN COUNTY LAND USE CODE, TITLE 8 OF THE PITKIN COUNTY CODE ● REPEALING AND REENACTING SECTION 7-20-140, LIGHTING, TO SUPPORT THE COUNTY’S GOALS OF PRESERVATION OF THE NIGHT SKY, PRESERVATION OF RURAL CHARACTER, MINIMIZATION OF OFF-SITE IMPACTS, AND ENERGY AND RESOURCE CONSERVATION. ● AMENDING SECTION 3-70-50(d), WEST OF MAROON PLANNING AREA (WOMP) OVERLAY ZONE DISTRICT, TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO LIGHTING AND REFER BACK TO SECTION 7-20-140 FOR ALL LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS. Ordinance No. 004-2025 RECITALS 1. Pursuant to 30-35-301 C.R.S., the Board of County Commissioners (“BOCC”) of Pitkin County, a home rule county, is authorized to make and publish ordinances for carrying into effect or discharging the powers and duties conferred upon such counties by law and as seems necessary. 2. Pursuant to Section 2.8.1 of the Home Rule Charter (“HRC”), the BOCC is authorized to take official action by Ordinance for certain matters where action is prescribed pursuant to the Colorado Revised Statutes as amended. 3. The Community Development Department (Applicant) has proposed Land Use Code (LUC) Text Amendments to repeal and reenact Section: 7-20-140: Lighting and to amend Section 3-70-50(d): West of Maroon Creek Planning Area (WOMP) Overlay Zone District. 4. The current lighting code was adopted in 1999 and no longer fits the needs of our community. The proposal updates the lighting standards to meet the needs of the community today by incorporating advancements in lighting technology, and through the application of lighting industry standards and best practices. 5. The amendment supports autonomous solutions, and gives residents flexibility within limits to implement creative and innovative solutions. At the same time the amendment language is objective with clearly defined standards to streamline the review process and resolution of lighting enforcement issues. 6. The amendment values protection of the natural environment, preservation of the night sky, and protection of rural character. Ordinance No. 004-2025 Page 2 7. The Pitkin County Planning and Zoning Commission considered the proposed Land Use Code text amendments at a regularly scheduled meeting on September 10, 2024, and recommended approval by a vote of 4-0, pursuant to Resolution No. PZ 008-2024. 8. The BOCC considered and approved by a vote of 5-0, the Ordinance on first reading at a duly noticed public hearing on December 18th, 2024. The BOCC approved and adopted by a vote of 3-0, the Ordinance on second reading at a continued public meeting on January 22nd, 2025. 9. The BOCC finds that the proposed text amendments are consistent with LUC Sections 2-30- 40(i)(1) and 2-40-10(c)(1) and 2-40-10(e)(2), the Land Use Policies in the Code, and the Pitkin County Comprehensive Plan, as follows: A. The amendment is consistent with the Master Plans for Brush Creek, Emma, Owl Creek, Upper Snowmass and The Valleys of Capitol Creek and Lower Snowmass Creek, which all “encourage the County to consider amendments to the lighting regulations to further minimize the impacts of outdoor lighting as new information and technology is made available.” B. The amendment supports the County’s policy to implement the right to see the night sky without the interference of unnecessary artificial light from growth, urbanization and highway development as stated in the LUC Section 1-60-180(k) The Ecological Bill of Rights. C. The amendment supports the goals of LUC Sections 1-60-70: Rural Development and 7-20-120: Scenic View Protection. To preserve the natural, rural scenery and natural landmarks of the County by minimizing the visible impacts of development. D. The proposed amendment to Section 7-20-140 and Section 3-70-50(d), complies with the applicable provisions of the Land Use Code and the applicable Land Use Policies in Section 1-60. 10. The BOCC finds that the lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all exterior lighting within Pitkin County. A. As of March 1st, 2025, light trespass and curfew regulations are in effect. B. As of March 1st, 2025, building permit applications that include changes to or new exterior lighting shall bring the entire structure into compliance with the provisions of this Section. C. Existing exterior light fixtures that do not violate the light trespass and curfew regulations shall be considered legal non-conforming for five (5) years from March 1st, 2025. D. Within five (5) years of March 1st, 2025, all exterior light fixtures that do not conform to the requirements of this Section shall be replaced or retrofitted to comply with the provisions of this Section. Ordinance No. 004-2025 Page 3 11. The BOCC finds that adoption of this Ordinance is in the best interest of the citizens of Pitkin County. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of County Commissioners of Pitkin County, Colorado that it hereby adopts the following text amendments to the 2006 Pitkin County Land Use Code, Title 8 of the Pitkin County Code, and authorizes the Chair or the Chair’s designee to sign the Ordinance and upon the satisfaction of the County Attorney as to form, execute any other associated documents necessary to complete this matter. 1. Repeal and reenact LUC Section 7-20-140 attached hereto as Exhibit A. 2. Amend LUC Section 3-70-50(d) attached hereto as Exhibit B. Ordinance No. 004-2025 Page 4 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND TITLE AND SHORT SUMMARY OF THE ORDINANCE PUBLISHED IN THE ASPEN DAILY NEWS ON THE 28TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2024. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND THE FULL TEXT OF THE ORDINANCE POSTED ON THE OFFICIAL PITKIN COUNTY WEBSITE (www.pitkincounty.com ) ON THE 28TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2024. INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING AT A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 18TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2024. APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON SECOND READING AT A CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 22ND DAY OF JANUARY, 2025. PUBLISHED BY TITLE AND SHORT SUMMARY, AFTER ADOPTION, IN THE ASPEN DAILY NEWS ON THE 30TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2025. POSTED BY TITLE AND SHORT SUMMARY ON THE OFFICIAL PITKIN COUNTY WEBSITE (www.pitkincounty.com) ON THE 30TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2025. ATTEST: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO _______________________ __________________________ Sam Engen, Kelly McNicholas Kury, Deputy Clerk Chair Date: _________________________ APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: ________________________ ____________________________ Richard Neiley, III Suzanne Wolff, County Attorney Community Development Director Exhibit A – LUC Section 7-20-140 Exhibit B – LUC Section 3-70-50(d) Jan-31-2025 7-20-140 LIGHTING (A)INTENT (1)To give flexibility within limits and support the goals of Land Use Code (LUC) Section 1-60-180(k): the Ecological Bill of Rights, specifically the right to see the night sky without the interference of unnecessary artificial light from growth, urbanization, and highway development. (a)Permit the use of exterior lighting that does not exceed the recommended levels specified in the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommended practices for night-time safety, utility, security, productivity, enjoyment, and commerce. (b)Minimize adverse offsite impacts of lighting such as light trespass, and obtrusive light. Curtail light pollution, reduce sky glow and improve the nighttime environment for astronomy, migrating birds and other wildlife. (2)To give flexibility within limits and support the goals of LUC Sections 1-60-70: Rural Development and 7-20-120: Scenic View Protection. To preserve the natural, rural scenery and natural landmarks of the County by minimizing the visible impacts of development. (3)To conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent possible. All exterior and interior light fixtures shall have a high efficacy as defined in the currently adopted International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). (4)These lighting standards acknowledge some exterior lighting is appropriate and necessary for the safety and enjoyment of people at night. What to light, why, and when, is a cornerstone of these lighting standards. Because the effects of light pollution can persist as far as 120 miles from the source, local control and regional coordination is encouraged for dark sky preservation and ecological protection. The following principles of responsible lighting design have guided the development of these standards: (a)Useful – Lighting shall have an intended purpose. (b)Targeted – Lighting shall be directed only where it is needed. (c)Low Light Levels – Lighting shall be no brighter than required for the task. (d)Controlled – Lighting shall only be used when it is necessary. (e)Spectrum – Harmful short wavelengths shall be limited (blue and violet). (B)GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)Conformance with All Applicable Codes: (a)All exterior lighting shall be installed in conformance with the provisions of this Section and the currently adopted National Electric Code (NEC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC). (2)Applicability: (a)The lighting standards of this Section shall be applicable to all exterior lighting within Pitkin County. (3)Exemptions: All exterior lighting shall follow the provisions in this Code; however, any special requirements for lighting listed below shall take precedence. (a)Lighting required by federal and state laws or regulations. Exhibit A (b) Lighting required by Pitkin County for public right-of-ways, monuments, and statuary. (c) Temporary lighting if approved by a Special Event Permit. (d) Underwater lighting in swimming pools and spas. (e) Lighting that is only used under emergency conditions. (4) All exterior lighting shall be extinguished when sufficient daylight is available. (5) Nighttime Lighting Reduction Requirements: A curfew shall be observed between the hours of 10 pm and 6 am. All exterior lighting shall be extinguished during this time. (a) Exemptions: Exterior lighting reductions are not required for any of the following: i. Photocell with timer set to one hour max, or motion sensor set to five (5) minutes. ii. For non-residential uses where normal operating hours begin or end within the hours of curfew, the curfew applies from one hour after closing to one hour before opening. iii. Egress lighting for steps, stairs, walkways, and building entrances of non-residential structures as required in the currently adopted IBC. iv. Street lighting as permitted by subsection (B)(12) below. v. Multi-family parking lot lighting as permitted by subsection (D)(2)(a) below. (6) Prohibited Lighting (a) Lighting that’s intended purpose is to illuminate a building facade or landscape. (b) Lighting that illuminates the Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, or Crystal Rivers, or their tributaries. (c) Lighting that may be mistaken for warning, emergency, or traffic signals. (d) Lighting of construction sites is prohibited except during approved construction hours (7am – 7pm Monday through Saturday) when sufficient daylight is not available and work is actively occurring. (e) Colored lights (for example RGB LEDs). (f) Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, and changing intensity lights. (7) Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) is a gauge of how yellow or blue the color of light emitted appears. All lighting shall have a nominal CCT no greater than 3000 Kelvin. (8) Fully Shielded: All exterior light fixtures shall be fully shielded except as permitted in Table 1. (a) Fully shielded is defined as a fixture constructed and installed in such a manner that all light emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp, light source or a diffusing element, or indirectly by reflection or refraction from any part of the fixture, is projected below the horizontal plane through the fixture’s lowest light-emitting part. Translucent fixtures are not considered fully shielded. (b) Examples of fully shielded fixtures: (c) Examples of non-shielded fixtures: (9) Light Trespass Limitations (a) Exterior and interior point light sources shall not be visible from the property line during hours of curfew. A point light source is defined as a non-diffused single light source that is identifiable from one location. (b) The maximum vertical illuminance level at the lot line, measured at approximately five feet (5’- 0”) above finished grade, shall be no more than 0.2 footcandles (fc) caused by exterior and/or interior light fixtures located on the site. To measure vertical light trespass, the light meter shall be aimed perpendicular to the property line, pointed towards the light source. Multiple readings shall be taken to ensure compliance around the property line. If the lot line abuts a public street, the illuminance values shall be measured at the centerline of the public street. These levels shall be used for enforcement, should concerns of obtrusive lighting or question of compliance arise. (10) American flags: When possible, lower and remove flags from sunset to sunrise so illumination is not needed. Only illumination of the American flag is allowed, other flags are not permitted to be lit. To preserve the night sky a top of pole downward directed light is required. (11) Seasonal Lighting, or string lighting, meant for temporary use and displayed on buildings or landscaping. (a) Residential: Shall only be permitted between November 15th and January 30th. (b) Non-Residential and Redstone Boulevard: Shall only be permitted between November 15th and March 1st. (c) Shall comply with subsections (B)(4, 5, 6b, 6c, and 9) above. (12) Street lights may be permitted on local streets, as defined in LUC Chapter 11, at the discretion of the Community Development Director in areas with medium or high pedestrian traffic. Medium pedestrian traffic is defined as 11-99 pedestrians during the highest nightly average one-hour volume period. High pedestrian activity areas have more than 100 pedestrians during nightly average one-hour volume (IES, 2022). Recommended Practice: Lighting Roadway and Parking Facilities (RP-8-22). A traffic engineer or other accredited professional shall submit a Pedestrian Count Survey, as defined by the American Planning Association (APA). If permitted, all light fixtures shall meet the following requirements: (a) Shall comply with LUC Section 7-20-140(B) General Requirements for All Exterior Lighting (b) All fixtures shall be light emitting diodes (LEDs) (c) Fixture distribution shall be equal or less than the BUG rating of B1-U1-G1 in LZ2 and B0-U1-G0 in LZ1. Street lighting is not permitted in LZ0. (d) Fixtures for street lighting shall be mounted so that the bottom of the fixture is no higher than twenty feet (20’-0”). (e) Initial lumen output shall be no more than 4,000 lumens. (f) Fixture spacing shall be no less than one hundred feet (100’-0”). (g) All fixtures shall have a field adjustable dimming system to allow for onsite dimming once installed. (h) All fixtures shall have a Type II distribution. (i) All fixtures shall have standard house-side shielding options. Front-side shielding may also be required to control light trespass across the street. Front-side shields may be custom, but manufacturer standard shielding is preferred. (C) LIGHTING ZONES - Ambient light is defined as general lighting of an area. (1) Lighting Zone Zero (LZ0): No ambient light (a) LZ0 includes areas zoned Rural and Remote. The purpose of the rural and remote zone district is to conserve and protect the natural environment and its resources, while allowing for limited recreational uses and limited residential development. (2) Lighting Zone One (LZ1): Low ambient light (a) LZ1 encompasses all areas not zoned as Rural and Remote or within the West of Maroon Creek Master Plan (WOMP) Overlay Zone District. These are areas of less dense residential and non- residential uses where lighting may be used for safety and convenience but may not need to be uniform or continuous. (3) Lighting Zone Two (LZ2): Moderate ambient lighting (a) LZ2 includes areas within the WOMP Overlay Zone District, beginning with the Aspen/Pitkin Airport and the Aspen Airport Business Center (AABC) and continuing up the Highway 82 corridor to the City of Aspen limits. This area consists of dense residential, institutional, and commercial uses and is subject to a certain amount of existing ambient lighting and warrants a greater allowance for exterior lighting. (4) Lighting Zone Map: (D) REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENTIAL EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1) For residential properties all exterior light fixtures shall comply with the initial lumen output in Table 1. Table 1. Maximum Allowed Initial Lumens* Per Fixture. Lighting Application LZ0 LZ1 + LZ2 Type 1. Up to two (2) unshielded fixtures per dwelling unit. Not allowed 800 lumens Type 2. Fully shielded fixtures. 630 lumens 1,260 lumens Type 3. **Low-voltage point source hardscape light fixtures 500 lumens 500 lumens Type 4. ***Linear Lighting Not allowed 100 lumens/ linear foot * Fixture lumens equal either the total initial lumens or lamp lumens multiplied by the number of lamps in the fixture. **Low voltage lighting uses less than 50V and requires a transformer device. *** Linear lighting shall be fully shielded so that the light source is not visible. (2) In addition to the maximum initial lumen output established in Table 1, above, a total lumen allowance for exterior light fixtures shall apply to each structure. This includes all building mounted fixtures and site lighting. The lumen allowance shall be based on the approved above grade floor area at a rate of 3.5 lumens/square foot. Single family residences are limited to a maximum of 35,000 lumens. (a) Exemptions: Parking lot lighting may be permitted for multifamily residential developments containing 8 or more units at the discretion of the Community Development Director. i. Whenever possible, parking lot lighting shall be controlled by a motion sensor set to a maximum of five (5) minutes. ii. The preferred option is for low-level "bollard" fixtures that have a maximum of four feet (4’-0”) mounting height. If pole-mounted fixtures are desired, twelve feet (12’-0”) is the maximum mounting height. iii. Pole-mounted fixtures have a maximum limit of 3,000 lumens and a BUG rating of B1- U1-G1 or less and shall comply with the parking space or hardscape area methods outlined in Tables 3 and 4 in subsection (E)(2)(a) below. (3) Driveway, sport court, and tree mounted lighting shall be compliant with the allowed initial lumens per fixture in Table 1. Mounting height is the vertical distance between the finish grade and the center of the apparent light source of the fixture. The light fixtures shall be aimed no more than 30 degrees from nadir. Nadir is defined as the invisible vertical line projecting downward to the ground from the center of the lens of the fixture. (a) Driveway lighting shall be controlled by a motion sensor set to a maximum of five (5) minutes. The preferred option is for low-level "bollard" fixtures that have a maximum of four feet (4’-0”) mounting height. If pole-mounted fixtures are desired, twelve feet (12’-0”) is the maximum mounting height. (b) Sports court lighting shall be controlled by a timer and turn off automatically after one hour. Pole mounting height shall not exceed sixteen feet (16’-0”) and correct aiming, shielding, and/or internal louvers is required to prevent light trespass and/or glare. (c) Tree mounted lighting is permitted when used to illuminate outdoor patios, walkways, autocourts, driveways, etc. Tree mounted lighting shall not exceed twelve feet (12’-0”) above grade and shall not be used for the sole purpose of highlighting vegetation. (4) One address monument per property is permitted to be lit by one shielded or unshielded fixture compliant with Table 1. An internally illuminated channel shall be considered shielded if the face and sides are constructed of an opaque material. (E) REQUIREMENTS FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL EXTERIOR LIGHTING – (1) Limits to offsite impacts (a) All fixtures shall be rated and installed according to Table 2, which outlines maximum BUG (Backlight-Uplight-Glare) Ratings (per IES TM-15) for all individual fixtures installed. BUG (Backlight, Uplight, Glare) Rating – The quantity of light per the most recently adopted IES TM-15 within various beam angles.  Backlight – the percent lamp lumens (non-LED fixtures) or the fixture initial lumens (LED fixtures) distributed behind a fixture between zero degrees vertical (nadir) and 90 degrees vertical.  Uplight – the percent lamp lumens (non-LED fixtures) or the fixture initial lumens (LED fixtures) distributed above a fixture between 90 and 180 degrees vertical.  Glare – the percent lamp lumens (non-LED fixtures) or the fixture initial lumens distributed 60 and 90 degrees vertical. (b) Property lines that abut public walkways, bikeways, plazas, and parking lots, the property line may be five feet (5’-0”) beyond the actual property line for the purpose of determining compliance with this section. For property lines that abut public roadways, the property line may be the centerline of the public roadway for the purpose of determining compliance with this section. NOTE: This adjustment is relative to Table 2 only and shall not be used to increase the hardscape area of the site. Table 2. Maximum Allowable Backlight, Uplight, Glare Ratings. Mounting Condition Backlight Uplight Glare Greater than 2 mounting heights from the property line B3 U1 G2 1 to less than 2 mounting heights from the property line B2 U1 G1 0.5 to less than 1 mounting heights from the property line B1 U1 G0 Less than 0.5 mounting heights from the property line B0 U1 G0 (2) Site lumen limit (a) The total installed initial light fixture lumens of all exterior lighting shall not exceed the total site lumen limit. The total site lumen limit shall be determined using either the Parking Space Method (Table 3) or the Hardscape Area Method (Table 4). Only one method shall be used per site. For sites with existing lighting, existing lighting shall be included in the calculation of total installed lumens. Table 3. Allowed Total Initial Lumens per Parking Space Method. May only be applied to properties up to ten parking spaces (including handicapped accessible spaces). LZ0 LZ1 LZ2 0 lumens per space 490 lumens per space* 630 lumens per space* Table 4. Allowed Total Initial Lumens per Hardscape Area Method. May be used for any project. LZ0 LZ1 LZ2 Base Allowance 0 lumens per square foot of hardscape 1.25 lumens per square foot of hardscape* 2.5 lumens per square foot of hardscape* Additional allowances for sales and service facilities. Drive Up Windows In order to use this allowance, fixtures must be within 20 feet horizontal distance of the center of the window. 0 2,000 lumens per drive-up window 2,000 lumens per drive-up window Automobile Service Station Canopy This allowance is lumens per installed fuel pump. Each side of a two-sided pump qualifies for an allowance.** 0 4,000 lumens per pump 8,000 lumens per pump * All non-residential structures are allowed the minimum lighting required in the currently adopted IBC, specifically Sections 1008.2.1 and 1008.2.3, even if the Parking Space or Hardscape Area Method calculation results in a site lumen limit less than that. ** Light fixtures mounted on Automobile Service Station canopies and other canopies shall be recessed so that the lens cover is flush with the bottom surface of the canopy or shielded by the fixture or the edge of the canopy. Lights shall not be mounted on the top or sides of the canopy. Signs that are compliant with sign regulations may be placed on these surfaces. (3) Lighting Control Requirements (a) Controls shall be provided that automatically extinguish all exterior lighting when sufficient daylight is available using a control device or system such as a photoelectric switch, astronomic time switch or equivalent functions from a programmable lighting controller, building automation system or lighting energy management system, all with battery or similar backup power or device. i. Exemption: Automatic lighting controls are not required for egress lighting required by the Building Code for steps, stairs, walkways, and building entrance. (4) Pole mounted fixtures shall be mounted so that the bottom of the fixture is no higher than sixteen feet (16’-0”). (5) The following shall apply to sign illumination: (a) Internally-illuminated signs are prohibited. (b) Sign lighting shall be directed downwards and shielded from neighboring property and the vision of passing motorists. (c) Initial lumen output shall not exceed 200 lumens per square foot of signage. (F) AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS (1) Agricultural buildings compliant with LUC Section 5-20-70(j) do not have a total lumen allowance. These structures are permitted to have up to one light per entrance. It shall be fully shielded, directed downwards and have an initial lumen output equal to or less than 1,260 lumens. (G) SPECIAL DISTRICTS: HISTORIC LIGHTING (1) Historic Applications (a) For the preservation of the integrity of historic structures the County may relax requirements such as shielding, uplight, and light trespass upon request and subsequent approval from the Historic Preservation Officer (HPO) or Redstone Historic Preservation Commission (RHPC). All lighting related to historic properties or located in a historic district shall be otherwise consistent with the lighting standards laid out in LUC Section 7-20-140(B, D, E, and F) above, as applicable. For properties within the Redstone Historic District please refer to the Redstone Historic Preservation Committee Design Guidelines for additional information. (2) Review Process (a) For historically designated structures, the HPO shall review and approve the proposed lighting to determine appropriateness. The HPO may vary lighting types as appropriate to the building but may not exceed the total lumen allowance for the structure. (b) If the property is within the Redstone Historic District Overlay the lighting plan shall be reviewed and approved by the RHPC prior to applying for permits. (3) Design Standards (a) Light spill from historic properties shall be minimized to the greatest extent practical and the design shall be compatible with a property’s or historic district’s character, setting, and context. (b) If new exterior light fixtures are added, the design shall be based on historic site or building lighting patterns if known. If unknown, ensure that new lighting features are of a simple design that does not compete with the historic character of the property. (c) Limit the use of exterior lighting to entry lighting as required by the Building Code. Minimal site lighting may be appropriate for parking areas, walkways and patios. (H) SPECIAL DISTRICTS: PITKIN COUNTY OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS (OST) (1) All lighting shall comply with LUC Section 7-20-140(B, D, E, and F) above, as applicable. Additionally all exterior lighting shall be reviewed and approved by the Open Space and Trails Board prior to applying for permits. (a) Open Space: No exterior lighting is permitted within properties classified as nature preserves, riverine, or backcountry. Minimal exterior lighting as required for safety is permitted on properties classified as open space for facilities associated with agriculture, residential, and administrative uses. (b) Trailheads and Greenways: Minimal exterior lighting as required for safety and wayfinding is permitted for trail amenities on properties classified as trailheads or greenways with medium or high pedestrian traffic, as defined by OST trail use counts. (c) Parks: Minimal exterior lighting as required for safety and wayfinding is permitted for park amenities and terrain. Elements such as gazebos, restroom entrances, and stairs may be illuminated. Lighting for nighttime recreation amenities shall not exceed the minimum levels needed for recreation and enjoyment of the space, and shall only be illuminated during active nighttime use. Lighting adjacent to historic resources shall be compatible with the surrounding historic character and compliant with LUC Section 7-20-140(G) above. (I) SPECIAL DISTRICTS: ASPEN/PITKIN AIRPORT (1) Lighting associated with the airside facilities at the Airport (runway/taxiway system, deice pad, aircraft parking areas and other facilities located inside the security fence) is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for safety and shall be exempt from these standards. All other exterior lighting shall comply with LUC Section 7-20-140(B and E) above. (J) SPECIAL DISTRICTS: SKI-RECREATION ZONE DISTRICT (1) All lighting shall comply with LUC Section 7-20-140(B, D, and E) above, as applicable. (a) Ski area operations occur around the clock in preparation for and throughout the ski season. Minimal exterior lighting as required for safety and wayfinding is permitted for general ski area nighttime operations, including but not limited to snow cat grooming, snowmaking, track vehicle maintenance, and work in and around ski area facilities. Exterior lighting shall only be illuminated during active nighttime use. Exhibit B 3-70-50 West of Maroon Planning Area (WOMP) Overlay Zone District (d) Review Standards: The following applies to the entire West of Maroon Creek Planning Area: Design: (1) The density, size and scale of development shall be designed to complement rather than obstruct the natural environment as seen from Highway 82. (2) Ridgelines shall be unobstructed. (3) The appropriate design of development shall minimize the need for “manmade” landforms used as tools for screening development or in order to protect a view or designated view plane (see Section 2 of WOMP). If proposed, these landforms shall be modest and discreet and shall not be egregious or out of character. Man-made landforms as part of a structure (such as a buried or partially buried parking garage) on the Pitkin County Airport are excepted from this standard. (4) Where existing or natural topography allows, structures shall be lowered in the ground to minimize height as seen from Highway 82 and Owl Creek Road and pedestrian trails. (5) Maintain a 200 foot setback throughout the corridor except as has been explicitly varied by previous land use approvals. For example, the 2004 Pitkin County Airport Master Plan allows for a 100 foot setback from Highway 82. (6) All utilities shall be buried underground. Landscaping: (1) Only native species shall be allowed within the WOMP area as referenced in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use”. (2) Planting arrangements shall mirror natural dispersion of plant groupings in the surrounding natural landscape. (3) When landscaping between Activity Nodes is altered, it shall be subject to review; Green areas between nodes are critical for maintaining the scenic objectives of these guidelines and the WOMP in general. (4) Disturbance of native vegetation shall be minimized when developing sites during construction. (5) All riparian corridors (including ditches,) and native vegetation and natural plant groupings contained within those corridors, shall remain undisturbed. For Airport-specific guidelines, see the “Pitkin County Airport Activity Node” Landscaping section. Note that this standard is not intended to preclude normal and appropriate ditch maintenance. (6) Native vegetation shall be used to break up the visual impact of continuous impervious surfaces .such as parking areas. (7) No replacement trees shall mature to a height that would obstruct identified views and view planes (see Section 2 of the WOMP). The purpose of this provision is to preserve views for the long term; however, to maintain variation and balance in a landscape, up-to one quarter of the trees or shrubs installed per property may be of a native variety that matures at a height that may obstruct views. (8) Drip and low flow irrigation shall be utilized in order to conserve water usage. Lighting: (1) All exterior lighting shall comply with Land Use Code Section 7-20-140 . (1) Exterior lighting shall be minimized. There shall be a balance between the safety and security needs for lighting and the desire to preserve the night sky. (2) All outdoor lighting for new development shall be full cutoff fixtures installed in a fixed down direction and 100% shielded. This will ensure that light trespass and glare have a negligible impact on surrounding property. (3) No light source (bulb) from an outdoor light fixture of a new development shall be visible beyond the property line. Shielding is required to reduce glare so that neither the light source nor its image from a reflective surface shall be directly visible from any place along the designated activity or building envelope. If no building envelope or activity envelope has been designated the property line shall be used. Shielding the source (bulb) of light shall consist of a metal housing (cap) which directs the light downward or a covering with frosted glass or colored glass with a dense enough consistency to hide the light bulb. The complete shielding with a metal cap is the preferred method. (4) In order to minimize light trespass on abutting property, illumination shall be measured with a light meter using a footcandle light measurement scale. The light shall be measured at: (a) The edge of the activity or building envelope at 4 feet measured vertically from grade and shall not exceed 0.1 foot-candles of light. (b) Directly under the light source at grade and shall not exceed 2.5 foot -candles of light. (c) Between outdoor light sources and shall not exceed 0.5 foot-candles of light. (d) On the property line of a subject parcel and shall not exceed 0.1 foot-candles, measured at four feet (4’) above grade. If no activity or building envelope has been established the property line shall be used. (5) The maximum height of a freestanding outdoor light fixture for new multi-family residential development and nonresidential development shall be twelve feet (12’). This includes fixtures for parking areas, which shall be placed far enough apart that the illumination between fixtures is 0.5 foot-candles. (6) All new outdoor lighting fixtures shall be energy efficient. Energy efficient lights include all high intensity discharge (HID) lamps; high pressure sodium and low pressure sodium. Metal Halide and Mercury vapor bulbs are not allowed. (7) Outdoor light fixtures used to illuminate flags shall use a very narrow cone of light for the purpose of confining the light to the flag and minimize light trespass and glare. (8) Lighting controls that automatically extinguish all outdoor lighting when sufficient daylight is available using a control device or system such as a photoelectric switch, astronomical time switch or equivalent functions from a programmable lighting controller, building automation system or lighting energy management system, shall be utilized whenever possible. (9) The outdoor light fixtures listed below shall be prohibited. Existing light fixtures legally permitted or authorized prior to adoption hereof may be maintained: (a) Uplighting/backlit canopies. (b) Neon tubing or band lighting along building structures as articulation. (c) Flashing lights. (d) Illumination of entire building or illumination of building facades. (e) Floodlighting, uplighting. (f) Any light that imitates or causes visual interference with a traffic signal or other necessary safety or emergency light. (g) Driveway lighting. (h) Mercury vapor lights and metal halide lights. (10) Walkway and path lighting shall not exceed two (2) feet in height, shall be fixed in a down directed direction, and shall be less than 0.5 footcandles between each fixture and less than 0.1 foot-candles six (6) feet from the fixture, at the edge of the activity envelope and/or the property line. (Note: For lighting standards applicable to Pitkin County Airport, see the “Pitkin County Airport Activity Node” Lighting section.) Signage: (1) Prohibit Canopy, Projecting, and Roof signs. An identification sign shall only be a free standing or a wall sign. (2) Replacement or new signs shall be limited to one sign per business; either a wall sign or a free-standing sign, but not both (except as may be modified under the Airport Activity Node standards.) (3) On the west side of Highway 82, allow one identification sign per primary entrance, except as may be modified under specific guidelines outlined for the Airport Activity Node. (a) Maintain a setback of 10’ from all property boundaries. (b) Sign placement shall not impede traffic or obstruct views. (c) No off-site signs shall be permitted unless approved by the County. (4) Signs at intersections shall only indicate the road name and not uses located further along that road. For example, Stage Rd., Harmony Rd., Tiehack Rd. (5) Only identification signs shall be lit. Lighting shall be compliant with Section 7-20-140 of the Pitkin County Land Use Code. (6) Ranch gates shall not be used as sign structures or located at any entrance drive or roadway along the Highway 82 Corridor within the WOMP area. Ranch gates are prohibited at entrances/exits onto Highway 82. (7) Address numbers shall comply with Pitkin County Board of County Commissioner Ordinance 31-2012 pertaining to addressing. (8) Agricultural stands shall be allowed one sign no greater than 6 square feet in addition to any other signs approved for the site. (9) Two sided, back-to-back free standing identification signs are required. The following standards shall only apply to the Airport Business Center (ABC) Activity Node (Except where noted specifically for application to the ABC Subdivision, the following standards apply to all properties within the Activity Node): Design: (1) The following height limits shall apply: (a) No structures within the ABC Subdivision shall exceed twenty eight (28) feet to the midpoint and thirty (30) feet to the peak of the roof; or twenty eight (28) feet for a flat roof. (i) i. ii. Within two hundred (200) feet of the Highway 82 Right of Way, structures within the ABC Subdivision are limited to fifteen (15) feet to the peak of the roof, or to the high point of a flat roof, as measured from existing grade. (ii) Within a perimeter of thirty (30) feet of the boundary of the ABC Subdivision, structures shall not exceed fifteen (15) feet to the peak of the roof, or to the high point of a flat roof, as measured from existing grade. (b) Outside of the ABC Subdivision and within the two hundred (200) foot setback from the Highway 82 Right of Way, all structures are limited to fifteen (15) feet to the peak of the roof, or to the high point of a flat roof, as measured from existing grade; buildings shall incorporate design features that make the structure appear as one story as seen from the Highway 82 Corridor and from pedestrian paths. (c) Outside of the ABC Subdivision and outside of the two hundred (200) foot setback from the Highway 82 Right of Way, structures are limited to heights allowed in the underlying zone district. (2) Development within 200 feet of the Highway 82 Right of Way shall be lowered in the ground whenever possible. (3) Articulated rooflines shall be utilized. A roofline shall not appear as a continuous linear plane. Landscaping: (1) Landscaping shall be native mixed species with varying heights and setbacks of plantings in order to soften and complement the facades of buildings. (2) Along the 100 Road in the ABC subdivision and along the frontage roads within the WOMP area, native vegetation as referenced in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use” shall be used to break up the visual impact of continuous impervious surfaces such as parking areas. (3) Plantings along Highway 82 shall not create or contribute to a vegetative tunnel effect. Signage: (1) Only wall signs shall be allowed along the frontage road and the 100 Road within the ABC. (2) No signs shall be located between Highway 82 and the Frontage Road and/or the 100 Road except: (a) Those related to the rights-of-way. (b) One free standing Identification sign per ABC entrance. (3) One, back-to-back, two sided free-standing identification sign per ABC entrance is required. (a) Sign shall be “anchored” on the ground with a base and/or landscaped area. (b) Base and landscaping will be included as part of total sign structure height. (c) Downward lighting is required. The following standards shall only apply to the Pitkin County Airport Activity Node: Design: (1) The appearance of any new development in the terminal area, as viewed from Highway 82 and Owl Creek Road shall be similar to the current facilities which include relatively low structures that are complemented by landscaping. (2) Development on the east and west side of the Pitkin County Airport runway shall include low structures which appear to be one story in height, while serving their intended purpose. (3) The rooflines and mass of structures shall be articulated and shall not appear as continuous (as viewed from Highway 82 and Owl Creek Road), unless such configuration is a necessary aspect of their intended purpose. (4) Use of architectural techniques such as partially buried, earth-bermed and/or earth covered roof and structures such as the Pitkin County Airport Operations Center (AOC), are a desirable means of limiting visual impacts. (5) While serving their intended purpose, structures, buildings and landscaping on the Pitkin County Airport shall be designed so as not to obstruct views of Mt. Daly and/or the Buttermilk Ski Area Mountain as viewed from Highway 82. (6) To the extent possible, undeveloped areas immediately beyond the ends of the Pitkin County Airport runway shall remain undeveloped as a visual break between Buttermilk to the south and shale bluffs to the north. (7) Maintain existing setback of 100 feet from property line along Highway 82. (8) Ensure that development, including structures, landforms and landscaping does not create a tunnel effect along Highway 82 or Owl Creek Road. If proposed, these landforms shall be “modest” and “discreet” and shall not be egregious or out of character. Landscape: (1) Maintain weed control. (2) Maintain the south and north ends of the runway as unobstructed areas vacant of tall plantings and containing native grasses and shrubs. (3) On the west side of the Pitkin County Airport near the Airport Operations Center (AOC), maintain native plantings that mimic the surrounding Owl Creek corridor landscape vegetation, which could include cottonwoods and aspens behind the development contemplated to the north of the existing AOC structure. (4) Maintain the Owl Creek riparian corridor with native, natural vegetation where consistent with the Aspen-Pitkin Airport Wildlife Hazard Management Plan. Lighting: (1) Lighting associated with the airside facilities at the Airport (runway/taxiway system, deice pad, aircraft parking areas and other facilities located inside the security fence) is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for safety and shall be exempt from these standards. Wherever the terms “outdoor fixtures” and “exterior lighting” are used in this section, it shall be understood to exclude fixtures or lighting associated with airside facilities. All other exterior lighting at the Airport shall be designed to achieve a balance between the safety and security needs of airport users and the desire to preserve the night sky. (2) Outdoor fixtures other than those associated with the runway/taxiway system and deice pad shall be installed in a fixed down direction, shall be full cutoff fixtures and 100% shielded. Shielding shall be required to reduce glare so that neither the light source nor its image from the reflective surface shall be directly visible from beyond the property line. (3) The maximum height of a freestanding outdoor light fixture shall be twelve feet (12’). This includes fixtures for parking areas, which shall be spaced so as to achieve an average illumination no greater than 0.5 foot-candles. (4) All new outdoor lighting fixtures shall be energy efficient. Energy efficient lights include all high intensity discharge (HID) lamps (high pressure sodium and low pressure sodium) and any other fixtures of equal or greater efficiency subject to approval by the Community Development Department. (5) Outdoor light fixtures used to illuminate flags shall use a very narrow cone of light for the purpose of confining the light to the object of interest and minimize light trespass and glare. (6) Lighting controls that automatically extinguish all outdoor lighting when sufficient daylight is available using a control device or system such as a photoelectric switch, astronomical time switch or equivalent functions from a programmable lighting controller, building automation system or lighting energy management system, shall be utilized whenever possible. (7) The outdoor light fixtures listed below shall be prohibited. Existing light fixtures legally permitted or authorized prior to adoption hereof may be maintained. (a) Uplighting/backlit canopies. (b) Neon tubing or band lighting along building structures as articulation. (c) Flashing lights. (d) Illumination of entire building or illumination of building facades. (e) Floodlighting, up lighting. (f) Any light that imitates or causes visual interference with a traffic signal or other necessary safety or emergency light. (g) Walkway and path lighting must not exceed three (3) feet in height (as measured from the light source to existing grade) and must be down-directed and shielded. LED lighting is required. Signage: (1) Signage at the Pitkin County Airport shall be consistent with the Pitkin County Airport Master Plan sign plan for exterior signs. If visual conflicts exist with the intent of the body of these standards along the highway corridor, the Pitkin County Airport shall work with Community Development to resolve conflicts and amend the Pitkin County Airport Master Plan signage plan where appropriate. (a) One two-sided back-to-back free standing identification sign per entrance is required. The following standards shall only apply to the Buttermilk Activity Node: Design: (1) The placement, height and massing of structures at the base of the Buttermilk ski area shall maintain open views of the ski mountain. (2) Roof lines shall be articulated so as not to appear as one continuous linear plane; (3) Maintain setback of 200 feet from Highway 82 Right of Way. Landscaping: (1) Landscaping shall be native mixed species with plantings of varying heights and setbacks to soften and complement the facades of buildings as referenced in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use”; (2) The parking area provides views of the ski mountain and continues to provide a sense of open landscape. This area shall include native, low shrubs and grasses in designated islands throughout the lot. Native plantings will provide needed drainage areas while limiting water usage, and provide green coverage throughout the hard surface parking area. Only species identified in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use” shall be used. (3) Existing intermittent tree placement along Owl Creek Road and the Buttermilk parking lot shall be maintained, and replacement trees shall be of a variety that is limited to a height at maturity that will continue to provide views of the mountain. To maintain mountain views, the density of the trees in this location shall not be increased. Lighting: See entire west of MOMP planning area standards. Signage: (1) Limit free-standing identification signs to one per primary entrance. (a) Sign shall be “anchored” on the ground with a base and/or landscaped area. (b) Base and landscaping will be included as part of total sign structure height. (c) Downward lighting is required. (2) One back-to-back, two-sided free standing identification sign per primary entrance is required. The following standards shall only apply to the Inn at Aspen Activity Node: Design: (1) Maintain a setback of a minimum of 110 feet from the Highway 82 Right of Way. (2) Maintain height of 19 feet within the first 200 feet from the Highway 82 Right of Way. Allow height to increase to underlying zone district height standard when located more than 200 feet from the Highway 82 Right of Way. (3) Design structures using building materials and colors that blend with the landscape. Landscaping: (1) Landscaping shall balance the need to complement development and maintain background views of ridgelines. (2) A variety of native species shall be used as landscaping is replaced as referenced in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use”. (3) Allowed height of replacement trees at maturity shall be determined based on siting of development and compliance with #1 above. Signage: (1) Limit free-standing identification signs to one per primary entrance. (a) Sign shall be “anchored” on the ground with a base and/or landscaped area. (b) Base and landscaping will be included as part of total sign structure height. (c) Downward lighting is required. (2) One back-to-back, two-sided free standing identification sign per primary entrance is required. The following standards shall only apply to the Pomegranate / Aspen Country Inn Activity Node: Design: (1) To maintain views of backdrop ridgelines from Highway 82, maintain the height of structures at no higher than the current level. A reduction in building height is required as redevelopment occurs. (2) Maintain setback from the Highway 82 right of way as follows: (a) Pomegranate: 180 feet to condominium building. Setback for the Pomegranate garages are subject to City of Aspen zoning and land use approvals. (b) Aspen Country Inn senior housing: 195 feet to hip roof structure. (c) Aspen Country Inn housing (west building): 200 feet. Landscaping: (1) Maintain vegetation to screen development until such time as redevelopment occurs. (2) Maintain the continuous creekside native vegetation as viewed from Highway 82 when heading downvalley. (3) Landscaping shall complement architecture and maintain background views of ridgelines; specifically the ridgeline views of Aspen Mountain, Highland Mountain, Buttermilk/Tiehack Mountains shall not be blocked by vegetation. (4) Replacement landscaping shall be comprised of a variety of native species. (5) Allowed height of replacement trees at maturity shall be determined based on siting of development and compliance with #3, above. (6) Only species referenced in the Colorado Native Plant Society’s “Suggested Native Plants for Gardening and Landscape Use” shall be used. Lighting: See general provisions above Signage: (1) Limit free-standing identification signs to one per primary entrance. (a) Sign shall be “anchored” on the ground with a base and/or landscaped area. (b) Base and landscaping will be included as part of total sign structure height. (c) Downward lighting is required. (2) One back-to-back, two-sided free standing identification sign per primary entrance is required.