Lighting Regulations in Holly, Michigan: Preserving Small-Town Character While Ensuring Safety and Security

Introduction

Holly, Michigan, with its rich history dating back to the 1860s, has carefully developed lighting regulations that balance modern safety needs with the preservation of its distinctive small-town character. The village's approach to lighting reflects its broader commitment to environmental quality and historical preservation, particularly evident in the Downtown Holly Commercial District with landmarks like the historic Holly Hotel.

As Holly continues to grow and develop, its lighting standards serve to enhance safety while preventing light pollution that could detract from the village's unique charm. These regulations demonstrate Holly's dedication to managed growth that respects both natural resources and cultural history.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting requirements in Holly:

• Maximum Light Levels:
• General: 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light measured from property line
• Residential: Maximum 10 foot-candles measured 3 feet above finished grade
• Commercial: Average of 0.5 foot-candles, maximum 10 foot-candles
• Adjacent to Residential Areas: Maximum 0.1 foot-candles at property line
• Height Restrictions:
• Standard Maximum: 12 feet for most outdoor lighting
• Extended Height: Up to 20 feet with special approval
• Pedestrian Walkways: Limited to 12 feet
• Fixture Requirements:
• Fully shielded fixtures required in most applications
• Downward-facing, particularly when near residential areas
• Point light sources must not be visible from adjoining properties

Understanding Fixture Requirements

Shielding and Direction

Holly's regulations emphasize the importance of proper shielding and direction of light fixtures to minimize light pollution:

• Full Shielding: Light fixtures must be shielded or constructed so that no light rays are emitted at angles above the horizontal plane.
• Light Trespass Prevention: The shining of light beyond property boundaries is strictly regulated, with residential property lines limited to 0.1 foot-candles.
• Bulb Visibility: No portion of the bulb or direct lamp image may be visible from a distance equal to or greater than twice the mounting height of the fixture.

Fixture Specifications

The village has specific requirements for lighting fixtures:

• Pole-mounted Fixtures: Outdoor pole-type light fixtures should be similar to those manufactured by D.S. Daley Co. of Highland, Michigan.
• Sources: High-intensity discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum of 175-watt metal halide (coated lamp - 3,000 degrees Kelvin).
• Fixture Quantity: Pole-mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole.

Commercial and Non-Residential Lighting Standards

Intensity and Measurement

Non-residential properties must adhere to specific illumination standards:

• Average Illumination: Must maintain an average of 0.5 foot-candles over the entire area.
• Maximum Illumination: No more than 10 foot-candles in any given area (measured 3 feet above finished grade).
• Special Cases: Areas with high commercial, pedestrian, or vehicular activity may request exemptions up to 20 foot-candles.

Spacing Requirements

• Parking Lot Lighting: Based on 20-foot fixture height, spacing should be between 80-100 feet apart.
• Decorative Fixtures: Fully shielded decorative fixtures may maintain 50-foot spacing.
• Security Lighting: Wall-mounted fixtures for security should be no less than 50 feet apart measured horizontally.

Residential Lighting Standards

Height and Intensity Restrictions

Holly's regulations provide clear guidelines for residential properties:

• Maximum Height: No light fixture shall exceed 12 feet.
• Exceptions: Building-mounted flood lights that are fully shielded, downward-directed using 50 watts or less.
• Intensity Limits: Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 feet above finished grade.

Wattage and Source Restrictions

• HID Sources: Outdoor lighting with HID sources exceeding 35 watts is prohibited.
• Incandescent Sources: Including halogen, shall not exceed 50 watts.
• Landscape Lighting: Limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 square feet of landscaped area.

Special Applications

Electronic Message Boards

Holly has specific regulations for electronic signs:

• Message Movement: Messages must not blink, flutter, or flash across the viewing area.
• Message Transitions: Only allowed by fading or scrolling to the new message.
• Light Levels: Maximum 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light measured from the property line or right-of-way at height of three feet.
• Nuisance Prevention: Must not create nuisance to residential properties after sundown.

Flag Illumination

• Fixture Limit: Maximum of two fixtures per flagpole.
• Wattage: Maximum of 150 watts each.
• Shielding: Fixtures must be shielded such that the point source is not visible outside of a 15-foot radius.

Prohibited Lighting Practices

To maintain the character of Holly and prevent light pollution, several lighting practices are specifically prohibited:

• Movement: Blinking, flashing, moving, revolving, scintillating, flickering, or changing intensity/color lights.
• Flood Lights: Unshielded floodlights and timer-controlled floodlights are prohibited.
• Special Effects: No beacon or searchlight shall be installed, illuminated, or maintained.
• Up-lighting: Generally prohibited except as specifically provided for in the regulations.
• Facade Lighting: Ground or pole-mounted lighting for the purpose of illuminating building facades is prohibited.

Supporting Holly's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the importance of lighting regulations that preserve Holly's small-town character while ensuring safety and functionality. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Holly's commitment to maintaining historical integrity while incorporating modern technology.

Our deep understanding of regional architectural styles allows us to appreciate Holly's balance of safety considerations with aesthetic preservation. We recognize that proper lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining the charm and historical character that makes Holly special, particularly in areas like the Downtown Holly Commercial District with its notable landmarks.

Bock Lighting serves as a resource for communities like Holly, offering expertise on how lighting can enhance community character while complying with local regulations. We're committed to supporting sustainable lighting practices that align with Holly's vision for managed growth that respects both natural resources and cultural history.

Conclusion

Holly's lighting regulations reflect its broader commitment to preserving small-town character while ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors. By carefully balancing illumination needs with historical preservation and environmental concerns, Holly has created standards that support its unique identity.

Property owners and developers should carefully review these regulations when planning lighting installations, particularly paying attention to fixture type, height, shielding, and illumination levels. With proper planning, lighting can enhance safety and aesthetics while maintaining the distinctive character that makes Holly special.

For complete information and assistance with specific projects, contact the Village Planning Department for guidance on your particular situation.