Boise addresses outdoor lighting through its Development Code to reduce light pollution and glare. While Boise does not have a formal dark sky ordinance, the city's development standards include provisions for exterior lighting that minimize light trespass and sky glow, particularly important given Idaho's valued dark sky resources.
New development must comply with outdoor lighting standards in the Development Code that require full cutoff or shielded fixtures to direct light downward. Maximum illumination levels are specified at property boundaries to prevent light trespass. Parking lot and commercial lighting must use fixtures that minimize upward light emission. The city encourages compliance with International Dark-Sky Association recommendations. Boise's proximity to the Idaho wilderness and Dark Sky Reserves makes light pollution a community concern.
Non-compliant lighting on new development projects will not receive approval. Existing properties that install lighting causing excessive light trespass may receive code enforcement complaints. Resolution typically involves fixture modification or shielding rather than fines.
Boise, ID
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See how Boise's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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