Lighting Regulations in Clark County, Indiana: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety and Functionality

Introduction: Clark County's Unique Character and Lighting Needs

Founded in 1801, Clark County, Indiana carries a rich historical legacy dating back to the American Revolutionary War, when land was awarded to George Rogers Clark for his military achievements. The county's strategic position along the Ohio River has shaped its development for over two centuries, making it a significant hub during pivotal moments in American history.

Cities like Jeffersonville, with its Civil War-era warehouses and the historically significant Jefferson General Hospital, represent the architectural heritage that defines Clark County's character. This blend of historical significance and modern growth creates unique challenges in community planning—particularly when it comes to lighting.

In Clark County, lighting regulations reflect the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide to Clark County Lighting Regulations

For property owners, developers, and businesses, here are the key lighting regulations to know:

• Sign Illumination: Indirect lighting is permitted for most signs, but flashing lights are generally prohibited
• Lighting by District: Different zoning districts have specific sign illumination allowances
• Mobile Home Parks: Exterior lights must be shielded to prevent illumination outside park boundaries
• Airport Areas: Special marking and lighting requirements apply near aviation facilities
• Community Impact: Outdoor illumination must not create nuisances or interfere with surrounding properties
• Accessibility: Light switches in certain dwellings must be placed in accessible locations

Sign Illumination Requirements

General Sign Lighting Rules

Sign illumination is one of the most comprehensively regulated aspects of lighting in Clark County. The regulations balance visibility needs with aesthetic considerations.

Key requirements include:

• Indirect lighting is permitted for all signs
• Flashing lights are prohibited for most signs
• Bed and breakfast and boarding house signs must be externally illuminated if lit

Prohibited Sign Lighting

The following lighting features are specifically prohibited for signs:

• Flashing, moving, or intermittent lights (except white of low intensity)
• Rotating or revolving beams of light
• Strobe lights
• Lights resembling danger or emergency lights
• Any illumination that may interfere with traffic or railroad signals

District-Specific Sign Illumination

Clark County tailors sign illumination allowances by zoning district:

• Districts C1, A1, R1, R2, RP: Indirect lighting allowed for all signs, no flashing permitted
• Districts R3, B1, PUD: Indirect lighting allowed for all signs, no flashing permitted
• Districts B2, B3: All sign lighting types permitted
• Districts M1, M2, M3: All sign lighting types permitted

Mobile Home Park Lighting Requirements

Clark County has specific lighting regulations designed for mobile home parks to ensure safety while preventing light pollution:

• Exterior park lights must be shielded to prevent direct illumination of areas outside the park
• Entrance illumination is required from sunset to sunrise, sufficient for prompt recognition
• Walkways to resident facilities (community buildings, laundry rooms, etc.) must have sufficient artificial lighting

These requirements balance security needs with consideration for neighboring properties.

Airport-Related Lighting Regulations

Safety and Navigation Considerations

Clark County recognizes the critical importance of proper lighting and marking near airports:

• The county has declared that marking and lighting obstructions near airports serves a public purpose
• Owners of structures or trees that present airport obstructions may be required to install appropriate markers and lights

Responsibilities and Maintenance

The regulations clearly define who bears responsibility for aviation-related lighting:

• The County Board of Aviation Commissioners typically bears the expense of installing, operating, and maintaining markers and lights for existing nonconforming structures
• For new permits or variances, property owners may be required to install and maintain appropriate markings and lights at their own expense
• The Board of Zoning Appeals may modify requirements to allow the County Board of Aviation Commissioners to handle installation and maintenance

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

Accessible Lighting Controls

The county requires:

• Light switches in dwellings with adaptive design must be placed in accessible locations
• This requirement extends to other environmental controls like electrical outlets and thermostats

Development Planning Requirements

For planned developments:

• Proposals for handling lighting must be included in preliminary plans for Planned Unit Developments (PUDs)
• Outdoor illumination must not create nuisances or interfere with the use and quiet enjoyment of surrounding properties

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Obligations

If you own property in Clark County, your lighting requirements will vary based on:

• Your property's zoning district
• The specific use of your property (residential, commercial, mobile home park, etc.)
• Proximity to airports or other regulated areas

Practical Tips for Compliance

• Before installing new lighting: Review regulations specific to your zoning district
• For signage: Pay particular attention to whether your district allows only indirect lighting
• For businesses: Ensure your lighting doesn't create nuisances for neighboring properties
• For mobile home parks: Install proper shielding on exterior lights and ensure adequate illumination at entrances and walkways

Supporting Clark County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Clark County's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern functionality. As a regional manufacturer with over a century of experience, we understand the unique balance required in communities like Clark County that value their historical heritage.

Our team appreciates Clark County's approach to lighting regulations that seek to prevent nuisance lighting while ensuring safety and accessibility. As lighting professionals who have worked with historic communities throughout the Midwest, we recognize the importance of lighting that complements architectural character rather than detracting from it.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, with particular understanding of how lighting choices impact historic areas such as those found in Jeffersonville and other Clark County communities. Our experience with projects that respect community character aligns with Clark County's efforts to balance growth with preservation of its historical significance.

Conclusion

Clark County's lighting regulations reflect its unique history and community values, focusing primarily on sign illumination, mobile home parks, and airport safety. While not comprehensive in all aspects of property lighting, these regulations demonstrate the county's commitment to maintaining its character while ensuring functional, non-intrusive lighting.

Property owners should consult with county officials for the most current requirements specific to their location and intended use, as lighting regulations may be updated periodically. By understanding and following these guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to preserving Clark County's distinctive character for generations to come.