Lighting Regulations in Blanchester, Ohio: Preserving Small-Town Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Blanchester, Ohio, founded in 1832 by Joseph and John Blancett, has maintained its small-town charm through generations of thoughtful community planning. While not having a designated historical district, this Clinton County village values its heritage, as evidenced by the active Blanchester Area Historical Society dedicated to preserving local history.

The village's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to balancing historical character with modern functionality. These regulations, though limited in scope, help maintain Blanchester's aesthetic appeal while ensuring safety and functionality for businesses and residents alike.

Quick Reference Guide: Blanchester Lighting Regulations

Before diving into details, here's a summary of Blanchester's key lighting requirements:

• Sign Illumination: Must use steady, stationary, shielded light sources
• Prohibited Lighting: Blinking/flashing lights, bare bulbs, exposed neon tubing, internally lit canopies
• Commercial Properties: Restrictions on string lights and searchlights
• Industrial Areas: No visible glare beyond property boundaries
• Parking Areas: Light must be directed away from residences

Sign Illumination Standards

Permitted Lighting Methods

Blanchester's code provides clear direction for how signs may be illuminated in the Cherry Street Commercial/Industrial Corridor:

• Approved Methods: Signs may only be illuminated by:
• Steady, stationary light sources directed solely at the sign
• Internal illumination contained within the sign
• Electronic Signs: Non-flashing and non-scrolling electronic signs are permitted

Prohibited Sign Lighting

The following lighting approaches are explicitly prohibited:

• Intermittent Lighting: All blinking, flashing, or intermittent lighting
• Unshielded Fixtures: Glaring, unshielded, or undiffused lights or bulbs
• Bare Illumination: Lighting by bare bulbs or flames
• Temporary Signs: May only be illuminated by non-reflected daylight
• Exposed Neon: Signs where neon tubing is exposed on all sides

Light Control Requirements

To minimize light pollution and maintain aesthetic standards:

• Shielding Requirement: All lights must be shielded to prevent projection onto adjoining properties or thoroughfares
• Traffic Safety: Sign illumination that could distract motorists or create traffic hazards is prohibited

Commercial Property Lighting Regulations

Decorative Lighting Restrictions

The village code addresses several types of decorative and specialty lighting:

• String Lights: Commercial use is prohibited except for holiday decorations, which must be mounted on the principal structure
• Searchlights: Permanent use is prohibited (searchlights are classified as temporary signage)
• Canopies & Awnings: Internally lighted canopies and awnings are explicitly prohibited

These restrictions help maintain Blanchester's small-town aesthetic while preventing excessive light pollution that might detract from the village's character.

Industrial Area Lighting Controls

Glare Prevention

Industrial properties must adhere to specific requirements regarding light spillage:

• Zero Tolerance Policy: No direct or reflected glare is permitted that would be visible from:
• Any property outside an industrial district
• Any street

This requirement helps protect surrounding properties from light pollution while allowing industrial operations to maintain necessary illumination.

Parking Area Lighting Requirements

Residential Protection

The code includes specific provisions for parking area lighting:

• Light Direction: Any lighting used to illuminate off-street parking areas must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining residences
• Implied Requirements: While not explicitly stated, this suggests fixtures should be properly aimed and possibly shielded to control light distribution

These regulations demonstrate Blanchester's commitment to respecting residential comfort while allowing businesses to maintain safe, well-lit parking areas.

Supporting Blanchester's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Blanchester's commitment to preserving small-town character while embracing necessary modern lighting solutions. We understand the delicate balance communities like Blanchester seek to maintain between safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

Our experience with similar communities throughout Ohio has given us insight into how lighting can enhance rather than detract from a village's historic appeal. We appreciate Blanchester's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that protect its small-town charm.

As a regional lighting resource, Bock understands the architectural styles and lighting needs specific to communities like Blanchester. Our commitment extends beyond products to education and support for communities working to maintain their distinctive character through appropriate lighting solutions.

What Property Owners Should Know

Navigating Compliance

If you own property in Blanchester, particularly in the Cherry Street Commercial/Industrial Corridor, understanding these lighting regulations is essential:

• New Installations: Ensure any new lighting meets the village's requirements, particularly regarding shielding and direction
• Sign Lighting: Pay special attention to sign illumination requirements
• Commercial Decorative Lighting: Be aware of restrictions on string lights and other decorative lighting
• Industrial Properties: Take extra precautions to prevent glare from leaving your property

Documentation and Planning

While Blanchester's lighting regulations are not extensive, proper planning remains important:

• Project Documentation: Maintain records of your lighting installations and specifications
• Neighbor Considerations: Be mindful of how your lighting might affect neighboring properties, especially residences
• Professional Guidance: When in doubt, consult with lighting professionals familiar with local regulations

Conclusion

Blanchester's lighting regulations, though focused primarily on signage and basic light control, reflect the village's commitment to maintaining its small-town character while addressing modern needs. By controlling light pollution and setting standards for commercial and industrial lighting, these regulations help preserve the quality of life Blanchester residents value.

Property owners should approach lighting projects with these regulations in mind, recognizing that thoughtful illumination contributes to the community's overall appeal. While the village's lighting code is not comprehensive, its focus on preventing light trespass and inappropriate commercial lighting demonstrates a clear intent to preserve Blanchester's distinctive charm for future generations.