Lighting Regulations in Jefferson, Ohio: Historical Character & Modern Needs

Quick Reference Guide to Jefferson's Lighting Requirements

Jefferson, Ohio takes a balanced approach to lighting regulations, focusing on safety, functionality, and preservation of the town's historic character. Here are the key requirements property owners should know:

• Property Numbers: Must be positioned to be illuminated by exterior lighting if lighting is provided (§ 1029.06)
• Maximum Intensity: Illumination must maintain continuous, uniform intensity with a maximum strength of 0.2 foot-candles
• Light Shielding: All lighting must be hooded or shielded to reflect light away from neighboring properties
• Architectural Harmony: Exterior fixtures and accessories must complement building design
• Commercial/Industrial Buffer: 40' setback with 10' landscaping buffer required when bordering residential zones
• Height Restrictions: Lighting fixtures cannot exceed the maximum building height for their district

Introduction: Jefferson's Lighting Heritage

Founded in 1803 by Gideon Granger, Jefferson, Ohio was envisioned as a "Philadelphia of the West." This historical vision has shaped the village's approach to development, including its lighting regulations.

The village's commitment to preserving its 19th-century architectural heritage while meeting modern needs is reflected in its balanced approach to lighting requirements. As home to several restored historical buildings and the preserved law office of abolitionist Joshua Giddings, Jefferson values lighting that enhances safety without compromising its historical character.

Jefferson's lighting regulations seek to maintain the village's aesthetic appeal while supporting community events like the Ashtabula County Fair and Covered Bridge Festival that showcase its cultural heritage.

Property Lighting Requirements

General Illumination Standards

The village takes a practical approach to exterior lighting with several key requirements:

• Illumination must be of continuous, uniform intensity
• Maximum lighting strength cannot exceed 0.2 foot-candles
• Lighting must be hooded or shielded to direct light away from neighboring properties
• Fixtures must be harmonious with building design as part of the architectural concept

Property Identification Lighting

Jefferson requires that:

• Property numbers must be positioned to be illuminated by exterior lighting if lighting is provided on the structure
• However, property numbers are not required to be illuminated all night (§ 1029.06)

Safety and Security Lighting

Property owners must ensure:

• Excavations, wells, cesspools or structures under construction must be protected with warning lights at night (§ 660.09)
• Any operation producing intense glare must be performed within an enclosed building or behind a solid fence

Commercial Property Requirements

Business-Specific Requirements

Different types of businesses have specific lighting requirements:

• Game Rooms & Arcades: Must submit an exterior lighting plan to the Building Commissioner if in a free-standing building
• Industrial Operations: Any operation producing intense glare must be enclosed or shielded so it's undetectable from property lines

Site Development Standards

When developing commercial properties:

• Site development plans must include details about "the size, location and type of all outdoor signs, and exterior lighting"
• Overall design must consider how signs and their associated lighting fixtures complement the appearance of the building

Parking Area Illumination

For business parking areas:

• Lighting must be shaded or diffused to reflect light away from adjoining property and traffic
• Illumination must be complementary to the landscaping plan
• Parking areas shall be illuminated wherever the Zoning Inspector and Planning Commission determine it necessary

Buffer Requirements Between Zones

When commercial or industrial districts border residential areas:

• A 40-foot setback is required from the property line
• Within this setback, approximately 10 feet off the property line must include landscaping
• The buffer landscaping must be designed to shield light and sound from affecting residential properties

Sign Illumination Guidelines

External Illumination Standards

For externally lit signs:

• Direct rays from external light sources must be shielded from adjacent residential buildings and streets
• Illumination cannot be of high intensity or brightness that causes glare hazardous to pedestrians or drivers
• Sign lighting must complement the appearance and architecture of the building

Internal Illumination

For internally illuminated signs:

• Permitted in Business Districts and Industrial Districts only
• Must not be of such brightness to cause glare hazardous to pedestrians or auto drivers
• Electronic changeable signs must be equipped with fully operational light sensors that automatically adjust intensity based on ambient light

Subdivision and New Development Requirements

When developing new subdivisions:

• The Planning Commission must review and approve street lighting plans
• All electric wiring must be installed underground per local electric company specifications
• The power company typically provides lighting installation when developing power plans for the area

What Property Owners Should Know

Getting Plans Approved

Before installing exterior lighting:

• Consult with the Building Commissioner for your specific zoning district requirements
• Include lighting details in your site development plans
• For game rooms or arcades, submit a dedicated exterior lighting plan

Avoiding Common Issues

The most frequent lighting problems include:

• Light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Excessive brightness causing safety hazards
• Fixtures that are not architecturally compatible with buildings
• Inadequate screening when bordering residential areas

Supporting Jefferson's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Jefferson's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing modern functionality. We understand the importance of lighting that maintains Jefferson's 19th-century aesthetic while providing necessary illumination for safety and convenience.

As a regional lighting partner, Bock Lighting appreciates Jefferson's balanced approach to development that prioritizes historical integrity. Our team understands the unique architectural styles found in Jefferson and similar historic communities throughout Northeast Ohio.

We support Jefferson's community vision through educational resources about lighting regulations and helping property owners understand how appropriate lighting can enhance rather than detract from the village's historical ambiance.

Conclusion

Jefferson's lighting regulations reflect its dedication to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. By focusing on light shielding, appropriate intensity, and architectural compatibility, these regulations help preserve the village's unique ambiance.

Property owners who understand and follow these guidelines contribute to Jefferson's vision as a community that honors its heritage as a "Philadelphia of the West" while meeting the needs of its citizens today.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property or development project, contact the Jefferson Building Commissioner or consult the village's zoning code for detailed information tailored to your situation.