Planning Commission backs update to outdoor lighting rules, sends recommendation to supervisors

The Frederick County Planning Commission voted unanimously on Nov. 5 to recommend an update to Chapter 165 of the county code that would revise outdoor lighting standards across the county and forward the draft to the Board of Supervisors for consideration on Dec. 10. The proposal was presented at a public hearing and reflects staff work and Development Review Committee input.

Tyler Klein, a county planning staff member who presented the amendment, said the changes aim to reduce glare and light trespass while promoting safety and energy conservation. "The purpose is to establish outdoor lighting standards that reduce the impacts of glare, light trespass, and overlighting, promote safety and security, and encourage energy conservation," Klein said. Staff cited model guidance from Dark Sky International and the Illuminating Engineering Society and consulted Parks & Recreation on recreational lighting needs.

The draft sets a maximum correlated color temperature of 3,000 Kelvin for residential uses and 4,000 Kelvin for most commercial and industrial uses. It also clarifies shielding and downcasting requirements, requires photometric plans prepared or certified by qualified professionals, codifies a typical 10‑foot setback for light poles from road rights‑of‑way, and adds a requirement that fixtures be turned off when not in use except in designated high‑security areas. For recreational facilities, the ordinance would require lights to be turned off 30 minutes after the last event or by 11 p.m., whichever is later, and sets measurement distances for light trespass evaluations.

Several residents urged stricter limits during public comment. Leslie Spencer of the Gainsborough community said keeping lower color temperatures preserves wildlife and dark skies and benefits human health: "When the night stays dark, the soil stays healthier and more alive," she said. Steve Shank of the Shenandoah Astronomical Society described the growth of a light dome over the valley and supported the proposed shielding standards.

Commissioners asked staff how enforcement would work and whether existing businesses would be required to change fixtures immediately. Klein said enforcement procedures are contained in the county’s violations and enforcement section and the amendment clarifies measurement procedures (average maintained horizontal foot‑candles). He said existing businesses would generally be grandfathered but would need to comply when they modify or add lighting.

A motion to recommend the ordinance amendment passed on a roll call vote with all recorded members voting yes. Chair announced the commission’s recommendation will be transmitted to the Board of Supervisors for consideration at its Dec. 10 meeting.

If the Board adopts the amendment, the county would have clearer, codified standards for fixture certification, measurement, fixture height adjoining residential and agricultural uses, and required photometric documentation that staff and reviewers can rely on when evaluating site plans.