Editor’s note: This is the third article in a series submitted by Village of Corrales Code Enforcement Officer Dennis Edeal on lighting in the village.
Handling Unique Lighting Scenarios (And Fixing What’s Already There)
So far in this series, we’ve focused mainly on residential lighting—the kind most of us deal with every day. But what if you run a business in Corrales? Or what if you just realized that floodlight you’ve had for fifteen years might not be compliant?
Deep breath. This article is for you.
Whether you’re figuring out how to light your business sign or wondering what to do about that vintage fixture your grandmother installed in 1987, we’ve got answers. And here’s the reassuring part: Most situations are easier to handle than you think.
For Business Owners: Lighting That Works (And Complies)
Running a business in Corrales is special. You get to be part of a commercial district that still feels like a village, where customers might arrive on horseback and parking lots have views of the Sandias. Your lighting should reflect that character—professional but not overwhelming, visible but not intrusive.
The Sign Lighting Rules: Where and When
Here’s the headline: Internally lighted signs and digital signs are only allowed in three zone types:
- Commercial (C) Zones
- Professional Office (O) Zones
- Municipal (M) Zones
If your business is in one of these zones, you can have an internally illuminated sign. If you’re not in one of these zones, your sign needs to be externally lit (with compliant fixtures, of course) or not lit at all…