Lighting Regulations in Clifton Township, Pennsylvania: Preserving Rural Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Understanding Clifton Township's Approach to Lighting

Clifton Township, nestled in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, has a rich heritage dating back to its official formation in 1875. With a modest population of just 1,494 residents (as of the 2020 census) spread across nearly 20 square miles, this rural community maintains a strong connection to its natural landscapes and pioneering spirit.

The township's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving the serene rural character that has defined the area since Jacob Gress first settled here in 1840. These guidelines aim to balance modern lighting needs with the preservation of Clifton Township's natural beauty and dark skies.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here's a summary of the most critical lighting regulations in Clifton Township:

• Direction & Shielding: Exterior lights must direct illumination away from adjoining properties and be pointed/shielded downward to minimize upward glare • Property Line Restrictions: No operation should produce light perceptible beyond property lines • Parking Areas: Areas designed for more than three cars must be illuminated according to Society of Illuminating Engineers recommendations • Business Appearance: Home businesses must have no outside appearance, including lights • Track Lighting: Must be extinguished by 10 p.m. • Buffer Requirements: Properties adjoining residential areas must have buffers to minimize light impacts

General Exterior Lighting Standards

Directional Requirements

Clifton Township's regulations clearly specify that any lights used for exterior illumination shall direct light away from adjoining properties. This fundamental requirement helps maintain privacy between neighboring properties and reduces unwanted light intrusion.

Additionally, lighting must be pointed/shielded downward to minimize upward glare. This requirement serves dual purposes - reducing light pollution that can obscure night sky visibility while also preventing hazardous glare conditions for drivers and pedestrians.

Property Line Limitations

The township code explicitly states that no use shall carry on an operation that will produce light perceptible beyond the property line of the lot on which the operation is situated. This comprehensive restriction helps maintain the rural character of Clifton Township by preventing light from spilling into natural areas or neighboring properties.

Glare Control

Regulations specifically prohibit: • Any light source causing direct or sky-reflected glare visible at property lines • Light sources creating safety hazards for drivers on public or private roads • Light emissions exceeding the township's maximum limits (referenced in § 27-706.G)

Specific Use Requirements

Parking & Driveway Illumination

For areas designed for vehicle use by more than three cars after dusk (excluding individual dwellings), Clifton Township requires:

• Illumination during night hours in accordance with Society of Illuminating Engineers recommendations • Arrangement of lighting to prevent glare into adjoining properties and streets • All lighting used for off-street parking must reflect light away from adjoining premises and public rights-of-way

Commercial & Business Lighting

Home Businesses

For home-based businesses, the township maintains strict standards to preserve residential character: • "There shall be no outside appearance of a business use, including, but not limited to, parking, signs or lights"

Adjacent to Residential Areas

Businesses operating next to residential areas must implement: • Buffer zones in accordance with § 27-705.12 to minimize glare of lights and visual impacts • Provisions to prevent or minimize light interference with adjacent properties

Recreational Areas

Parks throughout the township must be "furnished with lighting units so spaced and equipped with luminaries placed at such mounting heights, as will provide adequate levels of illumination for the safe movement of pedestrians and vehicles at night."

Street Lighting Requirements

Street lighting in Clifton Township follows these guidelines:

• May be required when the Commission and Board of Supervisors deem necessary for safe traffic circulation • Must meet design standards established by the Board of Supervisors • Is listed as a "Minimum Improvement Required" for various development types including residential, commercial, industrial, and campgrounds

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Rules

Clifton Township has detailed regulations for sign illumination:

• Signs may be illuminated by internal, internal/indirect, or indirect means • Flashing signs are prohibited (with limited exceptions for electronic signs in C Districts) • All signs must be designed, located, shielded, and directed to prevent casting glare or direct light onto roadways and surrounding properties • Sign colors, materials, and lighting must be "restrained and compatible with the building and site"

Specific Sign Type Regulations

Different sign types have unique illumination requirements:

Wall Signs

• If illuminated, must use shielded spot lighting • Light sources cannot be visible or exposed on the face or sides of characters • Surface area may be increased by 10% for individually outlined characters with shielded lighting

Window Signs

• May be internally illuminated

Floodlighting of Signs

• Must be arranged so only the sign is directly illuminated • No glare permitted on adjoining property or road right-of-way

Electronic Message Signs

• Must be equipped with light sensors and dimming devices • Cannot display animation, flash, or blink • Motion limited to transition between messages

Special Facilities & Structures

Communication Facilities

For communication facilities, the township specifies: • No lights may be mounted on a CCD except as required by regulations • Support structures cannot be artificially lighted unless required by FAA • Must comply with all FAA and PennDOT Bureau of Aviation requirements

Wind Turbines

Wind turbines in Clifton Township must adhere to these lighting requirements: • Cannot be artificially lighted except as required by FAA • If lighting is required, "the lighting alternatives and design chosen shall minimize the disturbance to the surrounding views" • Must comply with all applicable FAA and PADOT Bureau of Aviation regulations

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When planning exterior lighting for your property in Clifton Township, focus on:

1. Directionality: Ensure all lighting points downward and away from neighboring properties
2. Containment: Light should not be visible beyond your property lines
3. Shielding: Use fixtures with proper shields to prevent glare and upward light spill
4. Timing: Consider when lights need to be on, especially for track lighting (off by 10 p.m.)

Development Considerations

If you're developing property, remember that: • Street lighting may be required based on the Commission and Board of Supervisors' determination • Buffers are mandatory when adjacent to residential areas to minimize light impacts • For commercial developments, lighting must be thoroughly addressed in planning documents

Supporting Clifton Township's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Clifton Township's commitment to preserving its rural character while ensuring safe, functional lighting for residents and businesses. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share an appreciation for communities that balance modern needs with historical preservation.

Clifton Township's approach to lighting - emphasizing downward-directed, shielded fixtures that prevent light trespass - aligns with sustainable lighting practices that respect natural environments. We recognize that the township's regulations aim to preserve the unique rural experience that draws people to this special community.

Our experience with regional architectural styles and lighting needs allows us to serve as a resource for property owners seeking to maintain Clifton Township's character while meeting lighting regulations. We're committed to supporting communities through education about responsible lighting practices that enhance safety without sacrificing environmental quality or rural charm.

Conclusion

Clifton Township's lighting regulations reflect its identity as a rural community with deep historical roots and abundant natural beauty. By directing light downward, preventing light trespass across property lines, and requiring thoughtful illumination that prevents glare, these standards help preserve the township's character while ensuring safety and functionality.

Property owners who understand and embrace these regulations contribute to maintaining Clifton Township's serene environment and night skies - qualities that have helped define this community since its earliest days. When planning lighting for your property, remember that these regulations serve the collective goal of preserving what makes Clifton Township special for generations to come.