Lighting Regulations in Conemaugh Township, Pennsylvania: Preserving Rural Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, Conemaugh Township has a rich heritage dating back to 1790 when Christian (Smith) Miller first settled the area. From the historic communities of Davidsville (established 1831) and Hollsopple (founded 1880) to its rural landscapes, the township maintains a delicate balance between preserving its historical character and accommodating modern development needs.

Lighting regulations in Conemaugh Township reflect this commitment to preservation while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. These guidelines are designed to maintain the township's rural character while providing adequate illumination for various activities and developments.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Street lighting assessment fees: $0.33 per linear foot for improved property and $0.08 per linear foot for undeveloped property within 250 feet of street lighting • Home offices: No exterior lighting uncharacteristic of a residential setting • General prohibition: Excessive glare is not permitted • New developments: Must minimize extraneous lighting and prevent interference with adjoining properties • Signs: Various illumination restrictions based on location and type (details below) • Solar facilities: Limited to manually switched or dusk-to-dawn security lighting • Wind turbines: Illumination only as required by FAA, designed to minimize visual disturbance

Street Lighting Requirements

Assessment Structure

Conemaugh Township has established a street lighting assessment system based on property frontage. Property owners are assessed:

• $0.33 per linear foot for improved property frontage • $0.08 per linear foot for undeveloped property frontage

These assessments apply to properties on streets, roads, alleys, and highways within 250 feet of each street lighting facility.

Requirements for New Subdivisions

For new developments, the township has specific guidelines regarding street lighting:

• Street lights are recommended for installation in all subdivisions • Developers must make necessary arrangements with applicable agencies • Even if lights aren't initially installed, developers must provide utility easements for future street lighting • Street lighting is among the improvements required for final plat approval

Residential Lighting Regulations

Home Office Restrictions

For those operating home offices in Conemaugh Township, lighting requirements are straightforward but important:

• No exterior evidence of lighting that is uncharacteristic of a residential setting is permitted • Lighting must maintain the residential character of the neighborhood

General Residential Considerations

Throughout residential areas, the township prohibits:

• Creation of excessive glare from any lighting source • Light trespass that interferes with neighboring properties

Development and Special Use Lighting

Commercial and Industrial Development

Developers must demonstrate that:

• Lighting will not interfere with adjoining properties or uses • Extraneous lighting has been minimized to the greatest extent possible • Lighting is directed away from neighboring structures

Solar Electric Facilities

Solar facilities have specific lighting limitations:

• No artificial lighting except:

• Manually switched lighting
• Dusk-to-dawn security lights

Wind Turbine Generators

Wind energy projects must follow these illumination guidelines:

• No artificial illumination except as required by the FAA or other applicable authority • If lighting is required, designs must minimize disturbance to surrounding views • All safety lighting must comply with FAA, FCC, or other applicable regulations

Sign Illumination Regulations

Permitting Requirements

• All sign permit applications must include detailed drawings showing size, location, and illumination

Residential and Special District Signs

In RR, R1, R2, R3, and CN districts:

• Professional, accessory, or name signs cannot be illuminated • "For Sale" or "For Rent" signs cannot be illuminated • Development location/direction signs cannot be illuminated

Commercial and Industrial District Signs

For signs in CT, IL, and HI districts:

• Signs must be stationary, non-revolving, non-flashing, and non-animated • If illuminated, they must use reflected or refracted light that doesn't affect property in another zoning district • Displays must not emit light of intensity that causes glare or impairs driver vision • Digital displays must have dimmer controls and photocells that automatically adjust intensity based on ambient light conditions

Special Features and Exceptions

The following are prohibited unless authorized as a special exception by the Zoning Hearing Board:

• Stringing of light bulbs • Signs with flashing lights or reflectors • Signs that revolve, swing, or have movable parts

What Property Owners Should Know

Assessing Your Lighting Needs

When planning lighting for your property in Conemaugh Township, consider:

• Property type and zoning district - different rules apply to different areas • Proximity to neighbors - directing light away from adjacent properties is required • Purpose of lighting - security, accessibility, or aesthetic enhancement

Compliance Considerations

To ensure your lighting complies with township regulations:

• Minimize glare by using shielded fixtures and appropriate bulb types • Direct light downward rather than outward or upward • Consider lighting timers or motion sensors to reduce unnecessary illumination • Consult township officials before installing significant exterior lighting

Supporting Conemaugh Township's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Conemaugh Township's commitment to preserving community character while embracing practical lighting solutions. We understand the unique challenges of balancing modern lighting needs with the preservation of rural and historic charm.

Our experience with communities throughout the region has given us insight into how lighting can enhance safety and functionality while respecting a township's heritage and architectural identity. Conemaugh Township's approach to lighting regulation—focusing on minimizing interference while providing necessary illumination—aligns with our philosophy of responsible lighting design.

As a resource for township residents and businesses, we're committed to providing education about lighting best practices that support community values and comply with local regulations. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs makes us a valuable partner for those seeking to enhance their properties while honoring Conemaugh Township's distinctive character.

Conclusion

Conemaugh Township's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to maintaining rural character while providing for the safety and functionality needs of residents and businesses. By establishing clear guidelines for street lighting, residential illumination, special uses, and signage, the township creates a framework that preserves its historical identity.

Property owners who understand and follow these regulations contribute to the community's overall aesthetic while ensuring their lighting serves its intended purpose without creating nuisance or hazard. When planning any lighting installation or modification, consulting the township's requirements early in the process can save time and resources while supporting Conemaugh Township's vision for thoughtful development.