Lighting Regulations in Bowling Green, Ohio: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Illumination Needs

Bowling Green's journey from its incorporation in 1855 to the vibrant university city it is today has influenced its approach to urban planning, including how the community addresses exterior lighting. With a downtown area that began forming in 1846 and historical architecture that reflects the city's commercial roots, Bowling Green's lighting regulations aim to preserve its distinct character while ensuring safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide to Bowling Green Lighting Regulations

• Maximum Light Levels by District:
• Residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, MUN, PR, UR): 0.5 footcandles max at property line
• Commercial/Industrial zones (C, G, IE, I, R-C, A-1, CB, IC): 2.0 footcandles max at property line
• Parking lots: 2.5 footcandles max at property line
• Pedestrian areas: 2.0 footcandles max at boundary of pedestrian area
• Sports fields: 50 footcandles max at edge of play area
• Maximum Fixture Heights:
• Residential zones: 15 feet maximum
• Commercial/Industrial zones: 30 feet maximum
• Sports fields: 100 feet maximum
• Color Temperature:
• 3000 Kelvin maximum for outdoor lighting between dusk and dawn (excluding sign illumination)
• Glare Control:
• Full cutoff fixtures required for many applications
• Direct glare visible on adjoining properties prohibited

Understanding Bowling Green's Lighting Context

Why Lighting Regulations Matter in Bowling Green

As a city with deep historical roots dating back to 1832, Bowling Green balances preserving its historical character with meeting the illumination needs of a modern university town. The discovery of oil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries fueled development, but the city has maintained commitment to its architectural heritage.

The Role of Bowling Green State University

The presence of Bowling Green State University significantly influences the city's lighting needs, requiring solutions that balance campus safety with respect for nearby residential areas and the city's historical ambiance.

Technical Requirements for Exterior Lighting

Photometric Plan Requirements

For all non-residential developments in Bowling Green, a photometric plan must be submitted with site plans, including:

• All structures, parking spaces, and building entrances
• Vehicular and pedestrian traffic areas
• Vegetation that might interfere with lighting
• Adjacent uses potentially impacted by lighting
• All exterior lighting fixtures and specifications
• Details of fixture locations, orientations, and mounting heights

Light Levels and Fixture Heights

Bowling Green's code establishes specific maximum illumination levels and fixture heights based on zoning districts:

Residential Zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, MUN, PR, UR)

• Maximum light level: 0.5 footcandles at property line
• Maximum fixture height: 15 feet

Commercial/Industrial Zones (C, G, IE, I, R-C, A-1, CB, IC)

• Maximum light level: 2.0 footcandles at property line
• Maximum fixture height: 30 feet

Special Use Areas

• Parking lots: 2.5 footcandles maximum, 30-foot maximum height, full cutoff fixtures required
• Pedestrian areas: 2.0 footcandles maximum, 15-foot maximum height
• Under canopies: 5 footcandles maximum with specific fixture requirements
• Sports fields: 50 footcandles maximum at play area edge, 100-foot maximum height

Light Quality Requirements

• Color temperature: Maximum of 3000 Kelvin for outdoor lighting between dusk and dawn
• Fixture consistency: All lighting fixtures within common developments must be consistent in style, color, size, height, and design
• Service connections: Underground service connections required for all freestanding lighting fixtures

Controlling Light Trespass and Glare

Glare Prevention Requirements

Bowling Green's regulations define and address various types of glare:

• Direct glare visible on adjoining roads or property is prohibited
• Light trespass (light falling outside property boundaries) is restricted
• Full cutoff fixtures required for all lighting with lamps rated at 2,500 initial lumens or greater
• Flashing lights are prohibited in most contexts

Flood Light and Lamp Requirements

• Flood light fixtures must be aimed down at least 45 degrees from vertical
• Fixtures within 50 feet of street rights-of-way must be mounted perpendicular to the right-of-way
• Flood lamps of 1,000+ lumens must be aimed at least 60 degrees down from horizontal or shielded

Signage Illumination Regulations

Electronic Message Center Requirements

• Brightness limits: Maximum of 0.3 footcandles above ambient lighting conditions
• Message changes must have static hold time of at least 10 seconds
• Motion, blinking, swiping, or intensity changes are prohibited
• Not permitted in Pedestrian Residential Districts

Other Sign Illumination

• Menu boards may not flash or have visible bulbs or lighting elements
• A-frame signs in the B-3 District must be non-illuminated
• Building lighting must be aimed downward with no light projecting above the fixture

Construction and Safety Lighting

Temporary Lighting for Construction Sites

• Sidewalks and walkways under construction sheds must maintain minimum 3 footcandles at all times
• Barricades, fences, and obstructions within streets or sidewalks must be marked after dark with red lights

Barrier and Warning Light Maintenance

• Anyone who removes or damages barriers, lights, or warning devices must immediately replace them
• If immediate replacement isn't possible, the Police Department must be notified

Downtown and Decorative Lighting

Historic District Considerations

• Lighting poles and fixtures in certain areas must be decorative
• The city has invested in downtown lighting maintenance, including LED retrofit kits
• Vertical banners may only be installed on designated city-owned street light poles

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When planning exterior lighting for your property in Bowling Green, consider these key points:

• Know your zone: Different areas have different maximum light levels and fixture heights
• Consider neighbors: Light trespass onto adjacent properties is regulated
• Choose appropriate fixtures: Full cutoff fixtures prevent unwanted glare and sky glow
• Understand technical specifications: Color temperature, fixture height, and light levels are all regulated

Exemptions to Lighting Regulations

The following lighting installations are exempt from some exterior lighting regulations:

• FAA-mandated lighting for utility towers or airports
• Lighting for government flags or corporate flags
• Festive lighting during November, December, and January (provided it doesn't create unsafe glare)
• Battery-powered emergency lighting
• Architectural lighting using lamps of 800 lumens or less
• Public safety lighting

Supporting Bowling Green's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of lighting regulations in preserving Bowling Green's unique character. With experience in communities throughout our region, we appreciate Bowling Green's efforts to balance development with historical preservation.

As a regional lighting resource, Bock Lighting recognizes that appropriate lighting enhances both the safety and aesthetics of Bowling Green's historic downtown and university areas. Our understanding of regional architectural styles helps communities maintain their distinct character while implementing modern lighting technologies.

We're committed to helping property owners understand lighting requirements through education and resources, supporting Bowling Green's vision for illumination that respects its historical significance while meeting modern needs.

Conclusion

Bowling Green's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to balancing historical preservation with contemporary lighting needs. Whether you're planning a new development, renovating an existing property, or simply maintaining your exterior lighting, understanding these regulations ensures your project supports the city's vision.

The lighting requirements emphasize controlled illumination that prevents glare and light trespass while providing adequate light for safety and functionality. By following these standards, property owners contribute to preserving Bowling Green's unique character – from its historic downtown to its university-centered neighborhoods.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property, contact the Bowling Green Planning Department or consult with lighting professionals familiar with local regulations.