Lighting Regulations in Cedarville, Ohio: A Simple Guide to Village Standards

Introduction: Cedarville's Historical Lighting Context

Nestled in Greene County, Cedarville, Ohio carries a rich history dating back to its founding in 1843. Named for the cedar trees that once dotted its landscape, this charming village has maintained its small-town character through generations of thoughtful development. The presence of Cedarville University, established in 1887, and historic treasures like the Cedarville Opera House from the 1880s (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) speak to the community's commitment to preserving its heritage.

In a community where historical preservation is valued, lighting regulations - though limited in scope - play an important role in maintaining Cedarville's aesthetic charm while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors alike.

Quick Reference Guide to Cedarville's Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's a quick overview of Cedarville's key lighting regulations:

• Public Authority: The Village Administrator supervises lighting of streets, alleys, and public buildings
• Light Trespass Prevention: Exterior lighting must be shaded to prevent direct light on neighboring properties or streets
• Safety Requirements: Construction sites require warning lights at night
• Parking & Loading Areas: Must be properly illuminated during non-daylight hours with light directed away from adjoining properties
• Home Occupation Signs: Must be non-illuminated
• Permit Requirement: Installation of street lights requires proper permitting

Public Lighting Administration

Village Oversight

In Cedarville, the Village Administrator holds responsibility for supervising the lighting of all streets, alleys, public buildings, and public places. This centralized oversight helps ensure consistent lighting standards throughout the village.

Permit Requirements

Cedarville regulations specifically indicate that a permit is required for the installation of public safety mechanisms, including street lights. All work performed must strictly comply with the regulations outlined in the approved permit.

Residential and Commercial Property Lighting

Light Trespass Prevention

A key lighting regulation in Cedarville focuses on preventing light trespass onto neighboring properties:

• Exterior lighting must be shaded wherever necessary
• The purpose is to avoid casting direct light upon any other property or public street
• This requirement appears in multiple sections of the code, emphasizing its importance

Home Occupation Restrictions

For residents operating businesses from their homes, Cedarville maintains specific lighting restrictions:

• For home occupations, there shall be no change to the outside appearance of the building or premises
• Only one sign is permitted, not exceeding two square feet
• This sign must be non-illuminated
• The sign must be mounted flat against the wall of the building

These requirements help ensure home-based businesses maintain residential character without creating light disturbances.

Safety and Functional Lighting Requirements

Construction and Excavation Safety

Safety lighting is mandatory for construction areas:

• Any excavation, well, cesspool or structure under construction must be adequately protected by warning lights at night
• These warning devices must ensure the condition will not reasonably prove dangerous
• It's prohibited to destroy, remove, damage or extinguish any warning light placed for public protection

Parking Area Illumination

Cedarville code addresses the practical need for nighttime parking visibility:

• Parking areas intended for use during non-day hours must be properly illuminated to avoid accidents
• Lights used for parking lot illumination must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining property
• This balances safety needs with consideration for neighboring properties

Loading Area Illumination

Similar requirements exist for commercial loading areas:

• Loading areas used during non-daylight hours must be properly illuminated to avoid accidents
• Lights used must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining property

Code Exemptions and Definitions

Exempted Lighting Elements

The following lighting elements are specifically exempted from the Cedarville code:

• Wind turbines
• Pumps
• Site lighting not connected to building services equipment
• Flagpoles not connected to building services equipment
• Ground signs

Technical Definitions

The Cedarville code provides minimal technical definitions related to lighting:

• Glare is defined as "Excessively bright illumination"
• Inadequate light and ventilation can cause a building to be deemed unsafe

What Property Owners Should Know

Balancing Needs with Regulations

While Cedarville's lighting regulations are relatively minimal compared to many communities, they focus on key priorities:

• Preventing neighborhood disruption through light trespass
• Ensuring safety in areas like construction sites, parking lots, and loading zones
• Maintaining aesthetic character through limits on commercial signage illumination

Planning for Compliance

Property owners should consider these lighting principles when:

• Installing new exterior lighting
• Updating parking area illumination
• Establishing home-based businesses
• Conducting construction or excavation work

In cases where regulations seem unclear, consulting with the Village Administrator before installation can prevent potential compliance issues.

Supporting Cedarville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Cedarville's appreciation for preserving historical character while addressing modern lighting needs. We understand the delicate balance communities like Cedarville navigate between safety, functionality, and maintaining small-town charm.

Community Partnership Approach

Our understanding of Cedarville's values guides our approach:

• Preservation Focus: We appreciate the significance of historic buildings like the Cedarville Opera House and the architectural heritage they represent
• Education Resources: We offer informational resources on lighting regulations to help community members navigate requirements
• Regional Expertise: Our experience with similar communities throughout Ohio provides perspective on how to maintain character while meeting safety needs

Bock Lighting's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Cedarville's vision for thoughtful development that respects its historical identity and small-town atmosphere.

Conclusion

Cedarville's lighting regulations, while not extensive, reflect the village's priorities: safety, consideration for neighbors, and preservation of community character. The focus on preventing light trespass and ensuring adequate illumination in key areas balances practical needs with quality of life considerations.

For a community that values its historical identity, these straightforward lighting standards help maintain Cedarville's charming atmosphere while providing necessary guidance for property owners. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the village, understanding these basic lighting requirements contributes to the continued preservation of Cedarville's distinctive small-town character.