Lighting Regulations in Cortland, Ohio: Preserving Community Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in northeastern Ohio, Cortland is a city with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century when it was known as Baconsburg. From its humble beginnings around Samuel Bacon's sawmill to its transition to city status in 1980, Cortland has maintained a commitment to preserving its historical character while evolving to meet modern needs.

With landmarks like the Opera House, renovated in 1987 after serving as a cultural center from 1882 to 1907, Cortland demonstrates its dedication to honoring its heritage. This balance between preservation and progress is reflected in the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to enhance safety and functionality while respecting the community's aesthetic values.

Quick Reference Guide to Cortland's Lighting Requirements

• Street Lighting: Must be approved by City Council and conform to existing city standards
• Construction Sites: Warning lights required at night for safety around excavations
• Drilling Operations: All lighting must be shielded to minimize impact on neighboring properties
• Swimming Pools & Game Courts: Proper shielding from glare is required
• Commercial Properties: Lighting must reflect away from residential areas and public streets
• Illuminated Signs: Maximum 15 watts per square foot, no flashing lights permitted
• Mobile Home Parks: Streets must be lit at night with underground lighting systems

Street Lighting Requirements

Council Approval Process

According to Section 905.03 of Cortland's regulations, the location of all street lights must be approved by City Council. This oversight ensures consistent lighting throughout the community and maintains the city's aesthetic standards.

Financial Requirements

Before receiving a street permit, developers must secure a construction bond equal to 100% of the street lighting cost. This bond requirement demonstrates Cortland's commitment to ensuring proper completion of lighting infrastructure.

Completion Timeline and Standards

The construction bond runs for two years, by which time all street lighting must be completed. It's important to note that streets will not be accepted by the city if lighting is incomplete.

Design Specifications

Cortland maintains consistency in its street lighting by requiring that new lights conform to the size, shape, and heights of lights currently in use in the City. This provision helps maintain visual continuity throughout Cortland's neighborhoods.

Construction and Safety Lighting

Warning Lights for Construction Sites

Section 521.03 of Cortland's code clearly states that no excavation, well, cesspool, or structure under construction shall be left unprotected. These areas must be adequately protected by suitable barricades and guarded by warning lights at night to prevent dangerous conditions.

Protection of Safety Lighting

The code also prohibits the destruction, removal, damage, or extinguishing of any barricade or warning light placed for public protection. This ensures that safety measures remain effective throughout construction projects.

Specialized Lighting Applications

Mobile Home Parks

For mobile home developments, Cortland requires that all streets within the park shall be lighted at night. Additionally, these lighting systems must be underground, enhancing both safety and aesthetics.

Drilling Operations

For properties with drilling operations, the regulations require that all light shall be shielded to minimize effects on neighboring residences or property owners. This provision helps protect the quality of life for adjacent properties.

Recreational Lighting Requirements

Swimming Pool Illumination

The code specifically addresses recreational lighting, stating that lighting for swimming pools shall have proper shielding from glare. This provision ensures that pool lighting enhances safety without creating light pollution or disturbance to neighbors.

Game Court Lighting

Similar to swimming pools, the regulations specify that lighting for game courts shall have proper shielding from glare. This consistent approach demonstrates Cortland's commitment to balancing recreational needs with neighborhood considerations.

Commercial Lighting Considerations

Light Direction and Spillover

For commercial properties, Cortland's regulations state that lighting, if provided, shall reflect away from residential areas and public streets. This requirement minimizes light trespass and glare that could affect neighboring properties or create hazards for drivers.

Development Application Requirements

For C-1N development applications, plans must include the location and types of all exterior light fixtures. This requirement allows city officials to review lighting proposals before construction begins, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Sign Illumination Standards

Compliance Requirements

Illuminated signs in Cortland must be constructed in compliance with the National Electric Code and all applicable state and local codes. This ensures that sign lighting is both safe and properly installed.

Power Limitations

The code includes specific power restrictions, stating that illuminated signs shall have no more than 15 watts per square foot of illumination. This limitation helps control energy usage and light intensity.

Flashing Light Prohibition

To maintain the visual character of the community, Cortland's regulations specify that no sign shall contain flashing or intermittent lights. This prohibition helps prevent distractions for drivers and preserves the city's aesthetic quality.

Supporting Cortland's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the unique balance that Cortland seeks to maintain between historical preservation and modern lighting needs. As a regional manufacturer with deep connections to communities like Cortland, we appreciate the city's commitment to safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

Our experience with projects throughout Northeast Ohio has given us insight into how lighting can enhance community character while meeting regulatory requirements. We understand that Cortland's lighting regulations aim to preserve the city's unique character while ensuring public safety and environmental responsibility.

As a community partner, Bock Lighting serves as a resource for property owners and developers navigating lighting regulations. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs helps support Cortland's vision for sustainable, responsible lighting practices that respect both historical character and modern requirements.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Ahead for Lighting Projects

Before beginning any project involving exterior lighting in Cortland, property owners should carefully review the applicable regulations. For commercial properties or new developments, submitting detailed lighting plans early in the process can help prevent costly revisions later.

Focusing on Compatibility

When selecting lighting for your property, consider not just the regulations but also the character of surrounding properties. Cortland's emphasis on shielding and directing light away from neighboring properties highlights the importance of being a good neighbor when it comes to lighting.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Given the technical nature of some lighting requirements, consulting with lighting professionals familiar with Cortland's regulations can be valuable. This approach helps ensure that your lighting is not only compliant but also enhances your property's functionality and appearance.

Conclusion

Cortland's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents. From street lighting requirements to specific provisions for recreational and commercial properties, these regulations aim to create a cohesive community aesthetic while minimizing light pollution and disturbance.

By understanding and following these lighting guidelines, property owners can contribute to Cortland's vision of a well-lit, safe, and visually appealing community that honors its past while embracing the future.