Lighting Regulations in Elyria, Ohio: Balancing Historic Character with Modern Needs

Introduction

Founded in 1817 by Heman Ely at the convergence of the Black River's two branches, Elyria, Ohio boasts a rich architectural heritage with many downtown buildings dating to the late 19th century. The city's commitment to preserving its historical character while supporting growth has shaped its approach to urban planning, including its lighting regulations.

Elyria's lighting code addresses everything from street illumination to property lighting standards, balancing safety and functionality with respect for the city's historic charm. These regulations help maintain the aesthetic integrity of Elyria's neighborhoods while ensuring adequate illumination for public safety and enjoyment.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements in Elyria:

• Site lighting must use cut-off fixtures to prevent light spread beyond property limits
• Maximum light pole height of 25 feet
• No illumination exceeding 0.1 footcandle at residential district boundaries
• Light sources should be high-pressure sodium (or approved alternative)
• Street lighting must have underground wiring in new developments
• Minimum of two street lights required before occupancy permit issuance
• Sign illumination cannot use flashing or intermittent lights
• Electronic message displays subject to timing and brightness restrictions

Site Lighting Requirements

General Standards

Elyria's code specifically addresses how commercial and industrial properties can illuminate their sites. The city prioritizes preventing light spillover that could affect neighboring properties.

Key requirements include:

• Free-standing poles with cut-off light fixtures to prevent light spread beyond property lines
• Light sources must be high-pressure sodium or alternatives approved by the Planning Commission
• Maximum height of 25 feet for light poles
• Light lenses must be parallel to the ground with no sidewall

Light Intensity and Glare Control

The code places strict limits on the amount of light that can affect surrounding properties:

• No illumination exceeding 0.1 footcandle at any residential district boundary
• Exterior lighting must produce no glare on public highways, neighboring properties, or adjacent zoning districts
• For certain applications, illumination is limited to a maximum of 2 footcandles
• Lights must be shielded to direct light away from adjacent properties

Street Lighting

Developer Responsibilities

Elyria places significant responsibility on developers to establish proper street lighting in new subdivisions:

• Developers must install street lighting fixtures, wiring, and poles
• Underground wiring is required for all new street lighting
• Installation must follow a street lighting plan approved by the City Engineer
• A minimum of two street lights (one on each side of the house) required before occupancy permit issuance

City Responsibilities

Once installed properly:

• The City assumes responsibility for the operating costs of street lights
• The City maintains tree trimming to ensure street lights aren't obstructed

Historic Character Preservation

The code acknowledges Elyria's architectural heritage:

• Provisions for historic street lighting in certain areas
• Focus on lighting that complements the city's historic downtown character

Sign Illumination Standards

Prohibited Lighting Types

Elyria's code is specific about what types of sign lighting are not permitted:

• No flashing, intermittent, or moving lights on signs
• Sign brightness cannot constitute a hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic
• Illumination must not interfere with or obscure official traffic signs or signals

Electronic Message Centers

Special regulations apply to electronic signage:

• Limited to static displays with controlled transitions
• Minimum display times: 5 seconds for non-residential areas, 30 seconds for residential areas
• No flashing, animation, or video permitted
• No white, ivory, or yellow backgrounds allowed
• Must not create hazards or nuisance to surrounding properties

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Home Occupations

Home-based businesses have specific restrictions:

• Signage must be non-illuminated
• No equipment or processes that create glare detectable outside the dwelling

Loading Areas

Commercial and industrial loading zones have their own requirements:

• Lights must be arranged to reflect light away from adjacent properties or rights-of-way
• Lighting design subject to approval by City departments

Communication Towers

Cellular and personal communications towers have safety lighting requirements:

• Towers over 100 feet in height must be artificially lighted per FAA requirements

What Property Owners Should Know

Permits and Compliance

Property owners should be aware that electrical installations, including lighting, are subject to permitting requirements:

• A $25.00 fee applies for electrical permits for accessory buildings, yards, and lighting for residential properties
• All installations must comply with the Ohio Building Code and city regulations
• Underground electrical wiring is required in urban renewal projects, new subdivisions, and manufactured home parks

Common Compliance Issues

Property owners frequently encounter challenges with:

• Light trespass – when light extends beyond property boundaries
• Glare – excessive brightness that creates visibility problems
• Fixture height – exceeding maximum allowed heights
• Proper shielding – ensuring fixtures direct light appropriately

Supporting Elyria's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Elyria's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with historic preservation. With deep understanding of the architectural styles that define Elyria's character, Bock appreciates the city's approach to lighting regulations that protect its 19th-century Italianate buildings while ensuring public safety.

As a regional partner, Bock Lighting offers expertise in lighting solutions that respect Elyria's unique community character and comply with local regulations. Our experience with projects throughout Northeast Ohio has given us insight into the specific challenges facing communities like Elyria that are rich in historical significance.

Our team is available as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations, offering guidance on achieving compliant, effective lighting that enhances Elyria's natural beauty and architectural heritage.

Conclusion

Elyria's lighting regulations reflect the city's dual commitment to preserving its historic character while ensuring safety and functionality. From street lighting to commercial properties, these standards help maintain the visual appeal of neighborhoods while providing adequate illumination.

For property owners, understanding these regulations is essential when planning lighting improvements. By following these guidelines, residents and businesses contribute to the city's ongoing efforts to balance growth with preservation of its unique identity forged over more than two centuries of history.

Whether illuminating a historic downtown storefront or lighting a new subdivision, these regulations help ensure that Elyria remains both safe and true to its architectural heritage for generations to come.