Lighting Regulations in Chardon, Ohio: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety and Functionality

Introduction: Chardon's Lighting Heritage

Chardon, Ohio, founded in 1812 and serving as the county seat of Geauga County, boasts a rich historical character that stems partly from the rebuilding efforts following the Great Fire of 1868. This devastating event led to the construction of many buildings that still stand today, contributing to the city's architectural heritage and distinctive small-town charm.

With approximately 5,000 residents nestled in a predominantly rural setting, Chardon places high value on preserving its scenic landscapes and historical integrity. The city's lighting regulations reflect this commitment, carefully balancing modern safety needs with respect for the community's historical ambiance and rural character.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

For property owners, contractors, and businesses in Chardon, here's a quick overview of the most critical lighting regulations:

• Maximum illumination level at property line adjacent to a residence: 1 foot candle
• Maximum height for outdoor fixtures: 30 feet from finished grade (measured 15 feet from pole)
• Required fixture type: Fully shielded cut-off style fixtures for security, walkways, roadways, and parking
• Operating hours: Exterior lighting must be turned off between 11:00 pm and sunrise (except for security and walkway/roadway lighting)
• Prohibited lighting types: Flashing, rotating, moving, and digital lights
• EMC brightness limit: Cannot exceed 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light level

Purpose and Philosophy Behind Chardon's Lighting Regulations

Preserving Community Character

Chardon's lighting regulations aim to preserve the city's historical ambiance while providing necessary illumination for safety and functionality. The regulations explicitly state their purpose is "to preserve, protect and enhance the character of the City and the lawful nighttime use and enjoyment of property."

Controlling Light Pollution

A primary goal of Chardon's lighting code is preventing light pollution in various forms:

• Light trespass: Defined as "light in sufficient quantity that crosses over property boundaries, impacts surfaces, and produces a negative response in persons owning or using the violated space"
• Glare reduction: Requirements for shielded fixtures help minimize glare that can disturb residents or distract drivers
• Sky glow prevention: Directing light downward helps preserve the night sky visibility in this rural community

Balancing Needs

The regulations strike a balance between:

• Providing adequate lighting for safety
• Respecting neighbors' right to peaceful enjoyment of their property
• Preserving Chardon's historical character and rural atmosphere

Technical Specifications and Requirements

Fixture Design and Mounting

Chardon's code includes specific requirements for lighting fixtures:

• Only fully shielded cut-off style fixtures are permitted for security lighting and illumination of walkways, roadways, equipment yards, and parking lots
• Luminaire mast arms must match the original length, arch, and style unless otherwise specified by the City
• Direction requirements: Light fixtures must be directed downward rather than upward
• Shielding: Lights must be shielded to reduce emissions so they cannot be seen at a reasonable distance

Light Levels and Measurement

The code provides clear metrics for acceptable light levels:

• Property line maximum: 1 foot candle at property lines adjacent to residences
• EMC illumination: Electronic Message Center signs cannot exceed 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light
• Measurement procedure for EMCs:
• Use illuminance meter set to measure foot candles accurate to at least 2 decimals
• Take measurements with EMC off and again with EMC displaying white image or solid message
• Measurement distance = square root of (Area of Sign in Sq. Ft. × 100)

Height Restrictions

• Maximum height: 30 feet measured from finish grade
• Measurement point: Established not closer than 15 feet from the pole

Time Restrictions and Operation Requirements

Standard Operating Hours

• Outdoor light fixtures in all zoning districts must be turned off between 11:00 pm and sunrise
• Exceptions apply for:
• Security purposes
• Illumination of walkways and roadways

Automatic Controls

• Outdoor light fixtures used for decorative effects, sign illumination, or recreational facilities must be equipped with automatic timing devices
• EMC signs must have sensors to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions

Special Use Requirements

Historic District Considerations

The historic heart of Chardon receives special attention in the lighting code:

• Exterior lighting must be included in the architectural concept and development plan
• Harmony requirement: Fixtures, standards, and visible accessories shall be harmonious with building design
• Prohibited lighting: Gas discharge lamps and tubes are not permitted for signs or building accent lighting when exposed to direct view of motorists or pedestrians

Residential and Specialty Uses

Several specific uses have tailored lighting requirements:

• Bed and Breakfast establishments: Exterior lighting shall be typical for a single-family residence
• Funeral homes/crematoriums: Lighting must be compatible with surrounding neighborhood
• Wireless telecommunication facilities:
• Towers shall not be illuminated unless required by law
• If FAA requires lighting, white strobe lights not permitted at night unless no alternative exists
• Security lighting permitted only with prior Planning Commission approval

Sign Illumination

• Light sources must be shielded from adjacent buildings and streets
• Glare prevention: Lights cannot cause glare that distracts pedestrians or motorists
• Temporary signs in residential districts cannot be illuminated
• Traffic safety: Illumination cannot obstruct or distract from traffic control or public information signs

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for New Installations

When planning new exterior lighting installations, property owners should:

• Consult Chapter 1153.25 of Chardon's building code for specific requirements
• Choose appropriate fixtures that are fully shielded and cut-off style
• Consider neighbors by directing light away from property lines
• Install timers to automatically turn off lights during restricted hours

Common Compliance Issues

Property owners should be particularly attentive to:

• Light trespass onto neighboring properties (especially residential)
• Fixture height exceeding maximum allowances
• Operating hours extending beyond permitted times
• Inadequate shielding allowing light to spill into the sky or onto adjacent properties

Permits and Approvals

While specific permit requirements for lighting aren't detailed in the extracts, property owners should:

• Include lighting plans in development applications
• Ensure lighting complies with Section 1153.25 when mentioned in conditional use permits
• Consult with the Community Development Administrator for guidance on complex projects

Supporting Chardon's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we deeply appreciate Chardon's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring functional, safe lighting throughout the community. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we understand the region's architectural styles and the importance of balancing modern lighting technology with traditional aesthetics.

We share Chardon's values regarding light pollution prevention and historical preservation. Our knowledge of local lighting requirements can serve as a resource for property owners navigating the specifics of Chardon's lighting regulations.

Our experience with projects that respect community character and local regulations positions us to support Chardon residents in achieving lighting solutions that meet code requirements while enhancing the city's unique charm. We're committed to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that align with Chardon's vision for carefully controlled exterior illumination.

Conclusion

Chardon's lighting regulations reflect the city's dedication to preserving its historical character while providing safe, functional lighting for residents and businesses. By controlling light trespass, minimizing glare, and establishing clear technical standards, these regulations help maintain the community's small-town charm and rural atmosphere.

Property owners who understand and follow these requirements not only ensure compliance but also contribute to the preservation of Chardon's distinctive character—a legacy dating back to the city's founding in 1812 and rebuilding after the Great Fire of 1868. Through thoughtful lighting practices, Chardon continues to protect its architectural heritage while meeting modern illumination needs.