Lighting Regulations in Jasonville, Indiana: Preserving Small-Town Charm While Ensuring Public Safety

Introduction

Nestled in west-central Indiana, Jasonville embodies the essence of small-town America with its rich history dating back to 1858. Named after founder Jason Rogers, this former mining community has weathered significant events, including a devastating fire in 1914, while maintaining its distinctive character. Just a mile from Shakamak State Park, Jasonville proudly embraces its nickname as "Gateway to Shakamak."

With a modest footprint of only 1.31 square miles, Jasonville's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving both its historical charm and natural surroundings. The careful balance between development and preservation is evident in the city's limited but purposeful lighting requirements.

Quick Reference Guide: Jasonville Lighting Requirements

• Vegetation Management: Trees and shrubs that interfere with street lights must be maintained
• Public Hallways/Stairways: Multiple dwellings must maintain 10 foot-candles of light at floor level
• Habitable Rooms: Require two electrical outlets or one outlet plus one light fixture
• Bathrooms & Non-Habitable Rooms: Must have at least one ceiling or wall-type fixture
• Railroad Crossings: Must be illuminated with lights of at least 100 candle-power

Street Lighting and Vegetation Management

Maintaining Clear Street Illumination

Jasonville's regulations specifically address the relationship between vegetation and street lighting. Property owners should be aware that trees, limbs, branches, and shrubbery that interfere with street lights or obstruct illumination are regulated.

Property Owner Responsibilities

Maintaining vegetation to prevent interference with street lighting is an important responsibility for Jasonville property owners. This requirement helps ensure:

• Consistent illumination of public spaces
• Safe passage for pedestrians and vehicles
• Proper functioning of the city's lighting infrastructure

Historical Lighting Reference

While specifics aren't detailed in current regulations, the code does reference "1928-3 4-3-1928 Street lights," indicating the city's longstanding attention to proper street illumination dating back nearly a century.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Habitable Room Standards

Jasonville's building code provides clear guidelines for interior lighting in residential properties:

• Every habitable room must include either:
• Two separate wall-type duplex electric outlets, OR
• One duplex outlet plus one wall or ceiling-type electric light fixture

Safety Requirements for Wet Areas

Bathroom and other wet-area lighting has specific safety requirements:

• All bathroom electrical outlets and lights must:
• Be controlled by switches designed to minimize electric shock hazard
• Be installed and maintained to reduce electrical danger
• Include at least one ceiling or wall-type fixture

Public Areas in Multi-Dwelling Buildings

For buildings containing multiple residences, common areas have specific illumination standards:

• Public halls and stairways in multiple dwellings must:
• Be adequately lit by natural or artificial light at all times
• Provide a minimum of 10 foot-candles of light at tread or floor level
• For buildings with 1-2 dwelling units, conveniently located light switches may be used instead of continuous lighting

Railroad Crossing Illumination

Safety Through Visibility

One of Jasonville's most detailed lighting regulations concerns railroad crossings, reflecting the city's historical connection to rail transportation:

• Each railroad crossing requires:
• Electric lights of at least 100 candle-power
• Placement that allows citizens to clearly see the tracks
• Illumination that helps people protect themselves from trains
• Operation during the same hours as the city's street lights

Historical Context

These railroad lighting requirements highlight Jasonville's commitment to public safety while honoring its industrial heritage. As a former mining community with significant railroad presence, these regulations connect directly to the city's historical development.

What Property Owners Should Know

Focus on Functional Safety

Jasonville's lighting regulations prioritize practical safety concerns rather than aesthetic considerations. Property owners should focus on meeting the functional requirements for interior spaces and maintaining vegetation to avoid obstructing street lights.

Minimal Exterior Restrictions

Unlike many communities with extensive exterior lighting regulations, Jasonville's code provides property owners considerable flexibility. This approach aligns with the city's small-town character and respect for property rights.

Community Character Considerations

While specific exterior lighting restrictions are minimal, property owners are encouraged to consider how their lighting choices impact Jasonville's small-town atmosphere and proximity to Shakamak State Park's natural environment.

Supporting Jasonville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the unique character of small communities like Jasonville. With roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate how proper lighting can enhance a town's historical character while meeting modern safety needs.

As a manufacturer based in the Midwest, Bock Lighting recognizes the importance of preserving the peaceful, rural charm that defines communities like Jasonville. We understand how lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining the serene environment valued by residents and visitors to the "Gateway to Shakamak."

Bock's commitment to serving as an educational resource on lighting regulations aligns with Jasonville's practical approach to community development. We value the balance between necessary safety standards and respect for the natural surroundings that make Jasonville special.

Our experience with projects that honor community character makes us a knowledgeable partner for residents navigating lighting decisions in historically-minded communities.

Conclusion

Jasonville's lighting regulations reflect its practical approach to governance while preserving its small-town character. With specific requirements focused primarily on interior safety, vegetation management, and railroad crossings, the city maintains essential standards without imposing extensive restrictions.

Property owners benefit from understanding these basic requirements while appreciating how thoughtful lighting choices contribute to Jasonville's unique charm as a gateway to natural beauty and a testament to small-town American resilience.

For specific questions about current lighting requirements or permits, residents should contact Jasonville city officials directly, as regulations may be updated periodically.