City of Bee Cave Codes and Regulations Section 32.05.012 provides Lighting and Glare Standards. The purpose and intent of this particular section of the code includes language as follows:

Outdoor lighting shall be required for safety and personal security in areas of public assembly and traverse for multiple-family developments, as well as municipal, commercial, industrial, and institutional uses where there is outdoor public activity during hours of darkness. Glare and light trespass control shall be required to protect inhabitants from the consequences of stray light shining in inhabitants’ eyes or onto neighboring properties. Light pollution control shall be required to minimize the negative effect of misdirected upward light. The glare, light trespass, and light pollution requirements of this section shall apply to all uses, including residential, and all jurisdictions including public, private and municipal.

Subsection (d) of Section 32.05.012 goes on to state:

Outdoor recreational field pole-mounted lighting shall be treated on an individual basis. 

Over the past several months, we have discussed a number of issues related to outdoor field lighting including review of language provided in other jurisdictions.  Any future revisions to the ordinance would not necessarily impact existing facilities or locations; however, it may be helpful to engage a professional lighting consultant to assist with drafting specific language criteria Council could consider at a future meeting date.  Once drafted and if approved, that same language may be beneficial in developing future lighting compliance agreements as well. 

There are no pressing deadlines necessitating action on this issue; however, Council direction would be beneficial.  Also, please note we have worked extensively on lighting plan reviews and this topic with Mr. Dan Koss, an electrical engineer with Freese Nichols and currently under contract.