Lighting Regulations in Burton, Ohio: Preserving Historical Character While Meeting Modern Needs

Introduction

Burton, Ohio, with its rich historical backdrop as the oldest settlement in Geauga County, maintains a delicate balance between preserving its heritage and accommodating contemporary needs. Founded in 1798 by Thomas Umberfield, this charming village has carefully cultivated regulations that respect its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Burton's approach to lighting regulations reflects this balance, with guidelines designed to maintain the village's distinctive atmosphere, particularly in and around its Historic District. These regulations help Burton preserve its unique character while still meeting practical lighting needs for safety and visibility.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

For all property owners in Burton, here are the essential lighting regulations you need to know:

• Parking Areas: Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining properties in residential districts
• Historic District: Special consideration given to lighting that accents architectural features
• Residential Areas: No illuminated signs permitted in residential districts
• Excavation Sites: Warning lights required at night for safety
• Glare Control: Direct or sky-reflected glare is generally not permitted
• Electronic Message Centers: Prohibited within or contiguous to the Historic District
• Henhouses: Only motion-activated lighting permitted for exterior illumination

Historic District Lighting Considerations

Architectural Highlighting

Burton's historic character is a point of pride for the community. In the Historic District, lighting plays a significant role in showcasing this heritage. Regulations specifically mention:

• Landscape lighting should be designed to accent architectural features
• Lighting can be used to soften or screen undesirable views
• All lighting should be compatible with the historic, aesthetic, and architectural character of buildings

Sign Illumination Standards

Signs in the Historic District must adhere to strict guidelines that preserve the area's visual character:

• Sign illumination must be compatible with the historic character of buildings
• Electronic Message Centers are prohibited from lots and parcels within or contiguous to the Historic District
• Illumination must not cause annoying reflection or glare

Residential Area Lighting Requirements

General Residential Lighting

Burton maintains specific guidelines for residential properties to ensure neighborhood compatibility:

• Light from residential properties must not create glare that adversely affects surrounding areas
• Observation points for determining excessive glare are set at 25 feet from the property or at the lot line if closer

Specialized Residential Structures

Burton has specific requirements for certain residential structures:

• Henhouses: Only motion-activated lighting may be used to illuminate the exterior
• Inadequate light and ventilation in buildings may cause them to be deemed unsafe or unsanitary

Commercial and Business District Requirements

Parking Area Illumination

For business owners, proper parking lot lighting is essential:

• Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining premises in residential districts
• Light must not interfere with traffic on adjoining streets

Electronic Message Centers and Signage

Burton has detailed regulations for electronic and illuminated signs:

• Electronic Message Centers are permitted only in commercial districts
• Messages must remain fixed for at least eight seconds
• Message changes must occur in three seconds or less
• Light intensity must be low enough to not impair driver vision or interfere with vehicle operation
• No flashing or moving lighting permitted (except properly configured Electronic Message Centers)
• Exposed inert gas lighting is considered a permanent window sign
• Window signs with inert gas lighting may not occupy more than 40% of the window pane area

Glare Restrictions

Glare control is important in all districts, with specific requirements:

• Businesses must maintain acceptable glare limits at specified observation points
• In commercial districts (B-1 and B-2), these limits apply at 25 feet from the establishment or at the lot line if closer
• In industrial districts (M), limits apply at district boundaries or at points within adjacent residential districts
• The Zoning Inspector or Board of Zoning Appeals may require written plans from licensed professionals demonstrating how glare will be eliminated or reduced

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Cell Towers and Equipment

Burton regulates lighting for telecommunications infrastructure:

• Towers under 150 feet shall not be artificially lighted except for safety or FAA requirements
• Towers between 150-200 feet must follow FAA safety marking and obstruction lighting requirements
• Security lighting is permitted around equipment shelters

Construction and Excavation Sites

Safety lighting is required for construction areas:

• Excavations and construction sites must be adequately guarded by warning lights at night
• It is prohibited to remove, damage or extinguish barricades or warning lights placed for public safety

Dock Lighting

The code mentions regulations regarding:

• Electrical wiring and lighting systems for fixed or floating docks at marinas or boatyards

Understanding Glare and Light Trespass Restrictions

Definition and Measurement

Burton defines glare as a "dangerous, injurious, noxious or otherwise objectionable" element that must be controlled:

• In residential and business districts, glare is measured 25 feet from the establishment or at the lot line if closer
• In industrial districts, glare is measured at district boundaries or within adjacent residential districts

Enforcement and Compliance

Property owners should be aware of the enforcement process:

• The Zoning Inspector or Board of Zoning Appeals may require written statements and plans from licensed professionals
• These plans must detail how glare will be eliminated or reduced to acceptable limits
• Businesses in M-3 districts must not create glare that adversely affects surrounding properties

Supporting Burton's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Burton's commitment to preserving historical character while providing modern lighting solutions. We understand the unique architectural heritage that makes Burton special, particularly its status as the oldest settlement in Geauga County and the historical significance of Century Village.

As lighting professionals with deep ties to the region, we appreciate Burton's careful approach to development that maintains its historical charm. Our experience working with communities like Burton has given us insight into the delicate balance between preservation and functionality.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. We understand the importance of lighting solutions that complement Burton's 19th-century architecture while providing necessary illumination for safety and accessibility.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Burton's vision for careful community development. We believe in lighting that enhances rather than detracts from the unique character that makes Burton special.

Conclusion

Burton's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. Property owners should carefully consider these regulations when planning lighting installations or modifications.

The emphasis on controlling glare, particularly near residential areas, highlights Burton's dedication to maintaining the quality of life for all residents. Special attention to the Historic District ensures that lighting complements rather than detracts from the village's architectural heritage.

By understanding and following these lighting guidelines, property owners contribute to Burton's ongoing efforts to balance historical preservation with modern needs, helping to maintain the village's unique charm for generations to come.