Planning Commission forwards exterior-lighting code changes to council with amendments on enforcement and security lighting

The Yamhill Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council adopt proposed exterior-lighting amendments (planning file DCA 2403), forwarding the ordinance with two substantive changes: (1) the commission added exceptions to a complaint-only enforcement approach for properties in the Central Business District and for public buildings, and (2) it directed that security lighting be limited by automatic shutoff timing and motion-sensor behavior.

City planner Sean delivered the staff report and summary of the proposed ordinance, which would add a new chapter (10.66) establishing definitions, shielding and trespass standards, a nighttime curfew for non-security exterior lighting, and a compliance schedule. Staff noted the code treats EMC and other light types differently, excludes local streetlights from some provisions, and suggests an effective date; staff recommended the Planning…