Lighting Regulations in Haskins, Ohio: Understanding the Village's Approach to Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in Wood County, Haskins, Ohio embodies quintessential small-town charm. Since its incorporation in 1868, this village has carefully balanced growth with preservation of its rural character and community values. While Haskins doesn't have formally designated historical districts, its approach to development—including lighting regulations—reflects its commitment to maintaining a traditional small-town atmosphere while meeting modern needs.

Understanding Haskins' lighting regulations is essential for property owners who want to contribute to the village's aesthetic vision while ensuring safety and compliance. These regulations, though limited in scope, align with the village's overall approach to preserving its character.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements in Haskins

• Construction/Excavation Sites: Must be guarded by warning lights at night
• Public Way Excavations: Require at least two illuminated warning lamps at each end, with additional lamps every 50 feet
• Tree Maintenance: Property owners must trim trees that obstruct street lights
• Flagpole Lighting: Underground lighting permitted with specific installation requirements
• Power Factor Requirements: Neon/fluorescent lighting must maintain at least 90% lagging power factor
• Municipal Lighting Services: Village utility offers private property lighting installation
• Safety Standards: Inadequate lighting in structures is deemed a serious hazard

Construction and Excavation Lighting Requirements

Safety First: Warning Lights

Haskins regulations prioritize safety around construction areas. The village code clearly states that excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction must be guarded by warning devices or lights at night to prevent danger to life or limb.

Protection of Warning Lights

The code specifically prohibits anyone from destroying, removing, damaging, or extinguishing any barricade or warning light placed for public protection. This underscores the importance the village places on maintaining safety lighting.

Public Way Obstructions

For those working on public ways, the requirements are even more specific:

• Minimum of two illuminated warning lamps required during nighttime
• Lamps must be securely and conspicuously posted at each end of the obstruction/excavation
• For excavations exceeding 50 feet, one additional lamp is required for each additional 50 feet

Tree Maintenance and Street Lighting

Preventing Light Obstruction

Property owners in Haskins have specific responsibilities regarding trees and street lighting:

• It's unlawful to plant or maintain trees/shrubs that obstruct street lamp light distribution
• Property owners must trim trees to prevent obstruction of light from street lamps
• Trees near street lights must be trimmed to allow free passage of light to streets and sidewalks

Enforcement Process

The village has established a clear process for enforcement:

1. Council issues written notice to property owners ordering appropriate trimming
2. If owners fail to comply, Council may perform the necessary trimming
3. The cost of Council-performed trimming becomes a lien on the property

Specialized Lighting Installations

Flagpole Lighting Requirements

The village code provides specific guidance for lighting flagpoles along rights-of-way:

• Property owners may install underground lighting for flag display
• Lighting must meet all underwriters' requirements for installation
• The highest part of any lighting fixture must remain flush with the sidewalk or sodded area

Technical Requirements for Certain Lighting Types

For specific lighting technologies, Haskins requires:

• Neon, fluorescent, or similar lighting equipment must maintain a power factor of not less than 90% lagging
• Property owners must install corrective apparatus at their own expense
• Relocated equipment is considered a new installation under these requirements

Municipal Lighting Services

Village Utility Lighting Options

Haskins offers lighting services to private property owners through the village utility:

• Installation of lights on private property available upon landowner request
• Lease costs:
• $7.50 per month for a 150-watt security fixture
• $12.50 per month for a 150-watt floodlight
• The utility can install poles at a cost equal to the village's cost
• Relocation of security lights costs a minimum of $60

What Property Owners Should Know

Safety Considerations

The village code clearly states that structures with inadequate lighting are considered serious hazards. This designation has significant implications for property owners and may require remediation.

Proactive Maintenance

To avoid notices from the village council, property owners should:

• Regularly inspect trees near street lights
• Maintain proper clearance around lighting fixtures
• Ensure construction sites and excavations are properly illuminated at night
• Verify that specialized lighting meets power factor requirements

Supporting Haskins' Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Haskins' commitment to maintaining its small-town character while addressing practical lighting needs. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share the village's values regarding community identity and thoughtful development.

Bock Lighting recognizes the balance Haskins seeks to achieve—providing adequate illumination for safety and functionality while preserving the village's rural character and charm. Our understanding of the regional architectural styles and lighting needs makes us a natural partner for Haskins residents and businesses.

We're committed to serving as an educational resource to help property owners understand and navigate lighting regulations. Our expertise can help maintain the village's traditional ambiance while incorporating appropriate modern lighting technologies that respect the community's aesthetic priorities.

Conclusion

Haskins' lighting regulations reflect its overall approach to community development—balancing practical needs with preservation of the village's traditional character. While not extensive, these regulations focus on safety, utility, and maintaining the village's visual appeal.

Property owners who understand and follow these lighting guidelines not only ensure compliance but also contribute to the village's continued charm and community-focused atmosphere. By addressing both safety requirements and aesthetic considerations, Haskins demonstrates its commitment to thoughtful growth while honoring its historical roots.

For specific questions about lighting regulations or to confirm current requirements, property owners should contact Haskins village officials directly.