Lighting Regulations in Danville, Ohio: Preserving Small-Town Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Danville boasts a rich history dating back to 1813 when it was laid out by George Sapp, Sr. and Robert Waddell. Named after Daniel Sapp, a War of 1812 soldier, today's Danville emerged from the 1923 merging of three neighboring villages – Danville, Buckeye City, and Rosstown. This amalgamation created the unique small-town character that residents cherish today.

Historical landmarks like Saint Luke Catholic Church stand as testaments to Danville's architectural heritage. This small village, covering just 0.56 square miles, maintains a careful balance between preserving its historical charm and meeting modern community needs.

Lighting plays a subtle but important role in maintaining this balance, with regulations focused primarily on ensuring public safety while respecting the village's historical character.

Quick Reference Guide: Danville Lighting Regulations

• Street Light Obstruction: Trees and shrubbery must not block light from street lamps • Public Lighting Oversight: The Street Commissioner supervises lighting of public places • Flag Display Lighting: Specific guidelines exist for underground lighting of flag displays • Street Development: Regulations on when streets can be officially lit by the municipality

Public Street Lighting Regulations

Administrative Oversight

The Village of Danville has designated specific oversight for public lighting. According to municipal code, the Street Commissioner or engineer shall supervise the "lighting...of all public places" within the village limits.

Street Development Requirements

Danville maintains specific conditions regarding the improvement of streets, including lighting:

• No department may light any street or way unless it has:

• Been legally accepted or opened prior to the effective date of the code
• Corresponds in location and extent with a street shown on a recorded plat legally accepted by the Legislative Authority

This regulation ensures that lighting infrastructure is only installed on officially recognized public roads.

Street Light Distribution

To ensure effective illumination of public spaces, Danville regulates potential obstructions to street lighting:

• Tree and Shrubbery Positioning: It is unlawful to plant or maintain vegetation that obstructs light distribution from street lamps • Traffic Visibility: Plants must not block the view of traffic approaching intersections • Maintenance Requirements: Branches of trees near street lights must be trimmed to allow free passage of light to streets and sidewalks

Enforcement Mechanisms

The village has established a clear process for ensuring compliance with street lighting regulations:

• The Legislative Authority may issue written notices to property owners • These notices can order the trimming or removal of trees and shrubbery • The goal is to maintain proper light distribution throughout public areas

Flagpole Display Lighting Requirements

Installation Specifications

For property owners wishing to display the American flag, Danville permits underground lighting with specific requirements:

• Holder Requirements:

• Must be embedded in concrete
• Must be flush with the sidewalk or sodded area
• Must have a cap or cover when not in use
• Cannot exceed two inches in diameter
• Must be installed at least one foot from the curb

Lighting Fixture Guidelines

• Positioning: Underground lighting must be within a reasonable distance to the flagpole holder • Safety Standards: All installations must meet underwriters' requirements • Surface Integration: The highest part of any lighting fixture must remain flush with the surrounding surface

These specifications balance visibility for flag displays with aesthetic considerations and pedestrian safety.

What Property Owners Should Know

Tree Maintenance Responsibilities

As a Danville property owner, you have specific responsibilities regarding vegetation near street lights:

• Regularly trim trees and shrubs that might block street light distribution • Ensure that vegetation doesn't create visibility issues at intersections • Be responsive to any official notices requiring trimming or removal

Planning for Flag Displays

If you're considering installing a flagpole with lighting:

• Consult with local officials before installation to ensure compliance • Work with qualified electricians familiar with Danville's requirements • Ensure all underground components meet safety standards • Maintain fixtures so they remain flush with surrounding surfaces

Supporting Danville's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the delicate balance that communities like Danville strive to maintain between historical preservation and modern functionality. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Danville's commitment to preserving small-town character while embracing appropriate lighting technology.

Our experience with regional architectural styles positions us to appreciate Danville's unique character. We recognize that in historical communities, lighting serves both practical and aesthetic purposes – illuminating public spaces while respecting the village's architectural heritage embodied in landmarks like Saint Luke Catholic Church.

Community Education and Support

Rather than simply providing products, we believe in serving as a resource for communities navigating lighting regulations. We understand that Danville's approach to lighting reflects its historical context and community values, focusing on maintaining its small-town atmosphere.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with the village's thoughtful approach to development that preserves its historical integrity while accommodating modern needs.

Conclusion

Danville's lighting regulations, while limited in scope, reflect the village's practical approach to maintaining its historical character while ensuring public safety. The focus on street light distribution and specific guidelines for flag displays demonstrates a balanced approach to community illumination.

For property owners, understanding these regulations helps maintain the village's charm while ensuring proper illumination of public spaces. By working together, residents and village officials can preserve Danville's unique small-town atmosphere for future generations.

Whether you're maintaining trees near street lights or planning a patriotic display, these regulations help ensure that Danville remains both well-lit and true to its historical roots.