Lighting Regulations in Frankfort, Indiana: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Illumination Needs

Introduction

Founded in 1830 and named after Frankfurt am Main in Germany, Frankfort, Indiana has maintained its rich historical character and architectural heritage throughout its development. With approximately 15,112 residents, this quintessential small Indiana city places strong emphasis on preserving its historical districts while accommodating modern needs.

Lighting regulations in Frankfort reflect this balance between preservation and functionality. The city's approach to lighting helps maintain its unique architectural identity while ensuring safety and utility for residents and businesses. Understanding these regulations is essential for property owners, businesses, and anyone involved in development within the city.

Quick Reference Guide

• Exterior Stairways: Must be illuminated with minimum 1 foot-candle (11 lux) at floors, landings, and treads
• Common Hallways: In multi-family buildings, require at least a 60-watt standard incandescent light bulb (or equivalent) for each 200 square feet
• West State Road 28 Corridor: Has comprehensive lighting standards including light trespass limits, illumination maximums, and fixture requirements
• Lighting Plans: Required for developments in specific overlay districts
• Fixture Types: Many areas require full cutoff fixtures to prevent light pollution
• Sexually Oriented Businesses: Required to maintain 1 foot-candle illumination in parking areas from dusk to closing
• Sign Illumination: Various restrictions on type, brightness, and hours

General Property Lighting Requirements

Residential Illumination Standards

All spaces in residential properties must have "natural or artificial light sufficient to permit the maintenance of sanitary conditions, and the safe occupancy of the space and utilization of the appliances, equipment and fixtures."

For multi-family buildings, every common hall and stairway (except in one- and two-family dwellings) must be lighted with at least:

• 60-watt standard incandescent light bulb (or equivalent)
• For each 200 square feet of floor area

Exterior Stairway Requirements

Safety is a priority for exterior walkways, with specific illumination standards:

• Every exterior stairway must be illuminated with a minimum of 1 foot-candle (11 lux)
• This minimum applies to floors, landings, and treads

Historic District Considerations

In Frankfort's historic districts, lighting modifications receive special attention:

• Changes to light fixtures on historic buildings require a certificate of appropriateness
• Work must "preserve the historic and architectural character" of the building and its appurtenances
• Light fixtures are specifically mentioned as architectural elements requiring preservation

Commercial and Business Lighting

Basic Requirements

The code specifies that businesses using fluorescent or neon lighting (including signs) must:

• Install and maintain corrective apparatus
• Ensure power factor at all times is not less than 90% lagging

Parking and Service Areas

Off-street parking areas require lighting that:

• Is sufficient for safety
• Is directed away from adjoining properties
• Prevents glare from affecting public streets or residential windows

Sexually Oriented Businesses

These establishments have specific lighting requirements:

• All off-street parking areas and premise entries must be illuminated from dusk to closing
• Lighting system must provide an average maintained horizontal illumination of one foot candle
• Lighting must be shown on the required sketch/diagram of the premises

West State Road 28 Corridor Overlay Zone

This zone has the most comprehensive lighting regulations in Frankfort, covering many aspects of outdoor illumination.

Light Trespass Limitations

The code limits light spillage onto adjacent properties:

• Residential A, B, C, D, LB, Public right-of-way: 0.10 foot-candles maximum
• RB, GB: 0.20 foot-candles maximum
• Residential S, I-1, I-2, I-3: 0.50 foot-candles maximum

Building Illumination Requirements

When illuminating buildings and vertical structures:

• Maximum illumination on vertical surfaces: 1.0 foot-candle
• Fixtures must be located/aimed to direct light only onto the building
• All fixtures must be fully shielded
• Upward lighting permitted only for statues, monuments, fountains using spotlights
• Flag illumination restricted to spotlights (1,500 lumen maximum)

Parking Area Lighting

Specific requirements include:

• All fixtures must be full cutoff fixtures
• Minimum illumination: no more than 0.4 horizontal foot-candles at grade
• Average-to-minimum illumination ratio must not exceed 4:1
• Light poles in lots with 100 vehicles or less cannot exceed 20 feet in height

Walkways and Parks

For pedestrian areas:

• Maximum illumination: 0.5 average horizontal foot-candles
• Vertical illumination at 5 feet above grade: no more than 0.5 average vertical foot-candles
• Initial output of light sources cannot exceed 1,000 lumens

Canopies and Loading Areas

For covered areas:

• Minimum horizontal illumination: not to exceed 5.0 foot-candles at grade
• Average illumination: not to exceed 15 foot-candles
• Average-to-minimum ratio must not exceed 4:1
• Fixtures must be full cutoff with specific mounting requirements

Sign Illumination Regulations

General Sign Lighting

• Illumination must be indirect and non-flashing
• No sign may be illuminated after 11:00 p.m. if located near residential areas (exceptions for businesses open later)
• Prohibited: signs causing undue glare, distraction, or hazard
• Colors and lighting must be "restrained and harmonious" with the building

Technical Specifications

• Average illumination on vertical sign surfaces: not to exceed 3 foot-candles (2 foot-candles for ground-mounted lighting)
• No exposed bulbs or lamps permitted on sign exteriors
• Internal illumination near residential districts requires opaque/colored background with contrasting text

Lighting Plans and Documentation

For development in specific overlay districts, a comprehensive lighting plan must be submitted showing:

• Locations of all proposed exterior lighting fixtures
• Designation of cutoff and/or shielded fixtures
• Manufacturer information and photometric reports
• Mounting heights of all fixtures
• Analysis showing conformance to lighting level standards
• For building illumination: drawings of relevant elevations showing fixtures and illuminance levels

What Property Owners Should Know

Fixture Selection

• Many areas require full cutoff fixtures that prevent light from escaping upward
• Motion-detector security lighting has specific requirements for aiming and timing
• Decorative period fixtures may be allowed with certain limitations

Common Compliance Issues

• Light trespass onto neighboring properties is strictly regulated
• Over-illumination of parking areas and buildings is prohibited
• Improper shielding can result in non-compliance
• Fixture height restrictions apply in various zones

Planning for Projects

• Consult the specific requirements for your zone before installing new lighting
• In historic districts, consider the historical appropriateness of lighting choices
• Submit lighting plans early in the development process for overlay districts
• Consider hiring a lighting professional familiar with Frankfort's requirements

Supporting Frankfort's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Frankfort's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing modern technology. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and appreciation for Frankfort's balance of safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation allows us to serve as a valuable resource.

We recognize the importance of maintaining the character of Frankfort's historic districts through appropriate lighting choices. Our expertise can help navigate the complex regulations that govern lighting in various zones, particularly in sensitive historic areas where preserving architectural integrity is paramount.

As a regional partner, Bock Lighting is committed to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that align with Frankfort's vision for development that respects its unique heritage while providing functional illumination for residents and businesses.

Conclusion

Frankfort's lighting regulations reflect the city's dedication to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By understanding these requirements, property owners and businesses can contribute to maintaining the city's architectural heritage and creating well-lit, attractive spaces.

From basic illumination requirements for stairways to the comprehensive standards in overlay districts, these regulations help create a cohesive visual environment that honors Frankfort's past while meeting present-day needs. With proper planning and attention to detail, lighting can enhance both the beauty and utility of properties throughout the city.