Aspen Colorado Lighting Ordinance
Project Type
Dark Sky, Policy
Location
Aapen, CO
Year
2024
Team
City of Aspen
A Comprehensive Approach to Reducing Light Pollution
In a significant step toward environmental stewardship, the city of Aspen, Colorado, has completed a comprehensive new lighting ordinance aimed at reducing light pollution and enhancing the quality of the night sky. Working closely with stakeholders, Clanton & Associates Planning & Policy team developed a comprehensive ordinance which addresses both the city and its surrounding areas. This initiative reflects Aspen’s commitment to sustainable living, prioritizing the needs of residents, wildlife, and the local ecosystem.
The new lighting ordinance for Aspen was designed with a strong emphasis on minimizing light pollution and controlling interior light trespass to reduce unnecessary light spill. Key features include stringent outdoor lighting regulations with brightness limits and shielding requirements, ensuring light control that prevents spillover into residential areas and natural habitats. Clanton & Associates integrated energy efficiency and sustainability throughout, supporting public health, energy conservation, and the preservation of Aspen’s night sky for residents and wildlife alike.
A critical aspect of the project was community engagement. Clanton & Associates partnered with city planners to conduct outreach that gathered feedback and addressed concerns, fostering strong community support and understanding. This led to unanimous approval by the Aspen City Council, with the ordinance praised as a model for responsible urban lighting. To simplify compliance, user-friendly forms were developed for residential and non-residential lighting permits, facilitating a smooth transition.
The ordinance’s impact includes reduced light pollution, enhanced energy efficiency, better control over light trespass, and support for the local ecosystem. This project showcases the power of thoughtful planning, community collaboration, and innovative design to drive significant environmental improvements.
