New Ordinance Targets Cannabis Grow Light Pollution In Humboldt County, California

Officials in Humboldt County, California, have approved an ordinance
requiring light pollution from cannabis grows to be contained within the
facility’s grow area, KRCR reports.

The rules target cannabis cultivation in the City of Rio Dell, although
according to City Manager Kyle Knopp, there have been no complaints from
residents.

“We would welcome any information from the county, or if people wanted to
complain directly to the city, they’re more than welcome to do so.” —
Knopp, via KRCR

Humboldt County supervisors approved outdoor lighting rules last August to
restrict exterior lighting in unincorporated areas. The ordinance, which
allows residents to report intrusive lights, is designed to conserve energy
and protect the migration habits of certain nocturnal animals.

Since then, some residents have fingered cannabis cultivation sites as the
source of nighttime illumination in the region, according to a recent Redheaded
Blackbelt report.

Humboldt County Planning and Building Director John Ford said in the report
that officials “rely on complaints” when addressing light pollution from
cannabis cultivators, noting that they will contact a grower if they
receive a complaint, and that the issue is typically resolved “without
incident.”

Under the county’s light pollution ordinance, existing lighting was allowed
to remain unless it caused complaints, and property owners were given 10
days to rectify any reported violations.