Lighting Regulations in Bentleyville, Ohio: Preserving Rural Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction: A Village That Values Its Natural Beauty

Nestled in Cuyahoga County, the village of Bentleyville embraces its small-town charm and natural beauty. Founded in 1831 and named after Adamson Bentley, this community of fewer than 900 residents has consistently demonstrated its commitment to maintaining its rural character and serene landscapes.

The village's approach to lighting reflects these values. Unlike densely populated urban areas with comprehensive lighting codes, Bentleyville's regulations focus on preserving its peaceful atmosphere while ensuring safety and functionality. These thoughtfully designed regulations help maintain the village's distinctive character while accommodating modern needs.

Quick Reference Guide: Bentleyville Lighting Regulations

• Swimming Pool Lighting: Must be turned off by 10:30 p.m. if within 200 feet of dwellings; all lights must be shielded to direct illumination only on the pool area • Street Lighting: Design must be approved by Village Council; installed at Council-determined intervals • Tower Lighting: Towers under 150 feet should not be artificially lit except for safety/FAA requirements; towers 150-200 feet must follow FAA lighting standards • Construction Safety: Excavations and construction sites must have warning lights at night • Conservation Development Districts: Lighting plans must be included in final development plans • Development Boundaries: No lighting can be located within 100 feet of development plan boundary lines • Public Spaces: Lighting supervised by the Street Commissioner/Service Director

Swimming Pool Illumination Requirements

Nighttime Usage Restrictions

Swimming pool lighting in Bentleyville comes with specific timing and directional requirements. According to Section 1276.07 of the village code, artificial pool lighting must be turned off by 10:30 p.m. when pools are located within 200 feet of any dwelling structure.

Light Direction Controls

The code also specifies that pool lights must be shielded to direct illumination solely onto the pool area. This requirement helps minimize light trespass onto neighboring properties, preserving the peaceful nighttime environment that Bentleyville residents value.

The Purpose Behind Pool Lighting Rules

These regulations reflect Bentleyville's commitment to balancing recreational needs with neighborhood tranquility. By limiting both the hours of illumination and the direction of light, the village helps ensure that nighttime swimming activities don't disturb the rural calm that characterizes the community.

Street Lighting Standards

Design Approval Process

Bentleyville maintains a consistent aesthetic approach to street lighting through its approval process. According to Section 1248.11, street light designs must receive approval from the Village Council before installation.

Installation Requirements

The code specifies that street lights must be installed within the right-of-way at intervals determined by the Village Council. This ensures appropriate illumination levels while maintaining the village's aesthetic standards.

Underground Infrastructure

The village requires underground distribution cables for power and street lighting from a common distribution system. These must be installed within a utility easement at least ten feet in width on front lines and, where necessary, along certain side or rear lot lines.

Tower and Communications Infrastructure Lighting

Height-Based Requirements

Bentleyville's code includes specific lighting requirements for towers based on their height:

• Towers under 150 feet: Cannot be artificially lit except when required for safety purposes or by the FAA or Village Planning Commission • Towers between 150-200 feet: Must follow safety marking and obstruction lighting as prescribed by the Federal Aviation Administration

Security Considerations

The village does permit security lighting around equipment shelters associated with towers, balancing safety needs with aesthetic considerations.

Construction and Safety Lighting

Nighttime Safety Precautions

Section 660.09 of the village code requires appropriate illumination for construction sites and potential hazards. Specifically, excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction must be guarded by warning lights at night to prevent dangerous conditions.

Protection of Safety Lighting

The code also prohibits the destruction, removal, damage, or extinguishment of any barricade or warning light placed for public protection. This ensures that safety illumination remains functional when needed.

Development and Conservation District Lighting

Boundary Setbacks

For certain developments, Bentleyville requires that no lighting be located closer than 100 feet to any development plan boundary line. This setback helps minimize light impact on adjacent properties and preserves buffer zones between developments.

Conservation Development Districts

Any lighting proposed within Conservation Development Districts must be clearly defined in the final development plan. This requirement ensures that illumination in these specially designated areas aligns with conservation goals and environmental considerations.

What Property Owners Should Know

Limited But Important Regulations

While Bentleyville doesn't have extensive lighting regulations compared to larger municipalities, property owners should understand the specific requirements that do exist. Awareness of pool lighting restrictions, construction safety lighting requirements, and development setbacks can help ensure compliance.

Respecting the Village Character

Beyond formal regulations, property owners are encouraged to consider how their lighting choices impact Bentleyville's rural character and natural environment. Minimizing unnecessary outdoor lighting and using directional fixtures can help preserve the village's serene nighttime atmosphere.

When Planning New Projects

When developing new properties or renovating existing ones, consulting with village officials about lighting expectations can help ensure that projects align with community standards and avoid potential compliance issues later.

Supporting Bentleyville's Lighting Vision

A Northeast Ohio Lighting Partner

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the unique character and needs of communities like Bentleyville. We share the village's commitment to preserving natural beauty while providing appropriate illumination for safety and functionality.

Balancing Tradition and Technology

Bentleyville's approach to lighting—focused on minimizing unnecessary illumination while ensuring safety—aligns with Bock Lighting's philosophy of thoughtful, purposeful lighting design. Our experience with projects that respect community character makes us a valuable resource for property owners seeking to enhance their properties while honoring local standards.

Community Education and Resources

Understanding local regulations is the first step toward creating lighting that complements Bentleyville's character. Bock Lighting is committed to helping residents and businesses navigate lighting requirements through educational resources and technical guidance, ensuring that lighting enhances rather than detracts from the village's unique atmosphere.

Conclusion

Bentleyville's lighting regulations, though limited in scope, reflect the village's commitment to preserving its rural character and natural environment. From pool lighting restrictions to street light design approval requirements, these regulations help maintain the peaceful atmosphere that makes Bentleyville special.

Property owners can contribute to this vision by understanding existing requirements and thoughtfully considering how their lighting choices impact the community's character. By balancing modern needs with respect for Bentleyville's rural heritage, residents help ensure that the village remains a tranquil oasis in Cuyahoga County for generations to come.