JACKSON, Wyo. — Teton County is reminding the public that all outdoor string lighting,
including decorative and holiday, must be turned off after Jan. 10 to be compliant with County Land Development Regulations (LDRs).
According to a press release, this same restriction does not apply to lighting located within the limits of the Town of Jackson.
Teton County LDRs only allow string lighting on buildings, signs, trees and other vegetation between Nov. 15 and Jan. 10. Additionally, flickering or flashing outdoor lighting is never allowed in Teton County.
According to Teton County, the exterior lighting regulations were adopted to implement the community’s Comprehensive Plan goal to maintain dark skies to preserve the area’s natural character. The regulations aim to reduce glare and light trespass, reduce light pollution and reduce negative impacts on the nocturnal environment, Teton County writes.
Dark skies also help improve the natural environment for wildlife that rely upon darkness, improve melatonin levels, improve sleep for humans and can improve visibility of stars and the Milky Way. Here’s why homeowners should also always consider colored over white outdoor lights.
The rules for exterior decorative lighting are on page 5-45 of the County LDRs, Section 5.3.1 C, Prohibited Lighting.
Editor’s Note: A previous version of this article featured a photo of a private home. Buckrail regrets the error.
