Lighting Regulations in Kelleys Island, Ohio: Preserving History While Illuminating the Present

Introduction

Nestled in Lake Erie, approximately 4.5 miles from the mainland, Kelleys Island stands as a testament to historical preservation. Founded in 1833 by brothers Datus and Irad Kelley, this charming village possesses a rich heritage that continues to shape its community regulations today.

The entire island is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its significant architectural heritage and historical importance. This designation, combined with the island's quaint atmosphere and natural beauty, has influenced how the community approaches development—including its lighting regulations.

With a transportation system that primarily relies on bicycles and golf carts rather than automobiles, Kelleys Island maintains a distinctive character that its lighting requirements aim to preserve while ensuring safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide to Kelleys Island Lighting Regulations

• Sign Lighting: External only, directed solely at the sign itself
• Sexually Oriented Businesses: Minimum 5 foot-candles illumination measured at floor level
• Construction Areas: Red warning lamps required at excavation/obstruction sites
• Parking Areas: Lighting must be directed away from streets and adjacent properties
• Flagpoles: Underground lighting permitted if flush with ground surface
• General Outdoor Lighting: Must not adversely impact adjacent properties
• Historic District: Subdued lighting congruent with neighborhood character encouraged

Sign Illumination Requirements

Restrictions on Internal Illumination

Kelleys Island's regulations are quite specific regarding how signs may be illuminated. No freestanding, roof, or wall sign may be illuminated from a light source within the sign itself.

External Lighting Specifications

When using external lighting for signs, property owners must ensure:

• Light sources are designed to illuminate only the sign itself
• Light must not shine on any adjacent property
• Lights that flash, rotate, or otherwise move are prohibited
• Signs causing glare that creates traffic hazards are not permitted

Prohibited Sign Types

The code explicitly prohibits trailer-mounted mobile signs, which typically feature flashing lights and internal illumination with changeable letters/numbers.

Construction and Safety Lighting

Excavation Warning Lights

Anyone creating an excavation or obstruction in public ways must provide proper warning lighting:

• At least two illuminated red lamps must be installed at each end of the obstruction
• For areas exceeding 50 feet, one additional lamp for each additional 50 feet is required
• Lamps must be securely and conspicuously posted
• Lighting must be maintained throughout the night

This requirement helps ensure public safety by clearly marking hazardous areas after dark.

Preserving Street Lighting Effectiveness

Tree Trimming Requirements

To maintain effective street lighting, Kelleys Island requires property owners to manage vegetation:

• Trees and shrubbery must not obstruct the proper distribution of light from street lamps
• All trees must be trimmed to have a clear height of 14 feet above sidewalks and roadways
• Tree branches near street lights must be trimmed to allow free passage of light to streets and sidewalks
• The Village Council may order property owners to trim trees that obstruct lighting
• If owners fail to comply, the Council may complete the work and charge the cost to the property

Special Purpose Lighting Regulations

Flagpole Illumination

For those wishing to illuminate flags on their property:

• Underground lighting is permitted for flagpole display
• Fixtures must be flush with the sidewalk or sodded area at all times
• Installation must be within reasonable distance to the holder
• All installations must meet Underwriters' requirements

Parking Area Lighting

For parking areas, the following guidelines apply:

• Lighting must be arranged to direct light away from adjoining properties and streets
• Open light sources such as strings of light bulbs are not permitted
• Lighting should provide adequate illumination for safety while respecting neighboring properties

Specialized Business Requirements

Sexually Oriented Business Lighting Standards

Kelleys Island maintains specific lighting standards for sexually oriented businesses:

• Minimum illumination level of 5 foot-candles measured at floor level
• This illumination must be maintained whenever patrons are present
• Adequate exterior lighting required for monitoring and to prevent loitering
• In case of power failure, the business must close immediately until proper lighting is restored
• Premises must have overhead lighting fixtures of sufficient intensity throughout all patron areas

Industrial Performance Standards

Industrial properties on the island must adhere to these lighting requirements:

• No direct or sky-reflected glare visible at lot lines
• No glare from lights or high-temperature processes such as welding or combustion
• Lighting must be designed to prevent adverse impacts on neighboring properties

Historical District Considerations

Preserving Community Character

For properties in historically significant areas:

• Subdued lighting congruent with the character of the structure or neighborhood is encouraged
• Exterior lighting, including commercial signage, will be reviewed for compatibility
• The Village has invested in special lighting projects for the enhancement of the historic and business district

Balancing Modern Needs with Historic Preservation

Kelleys Island's approach reflects its commitment to maintaining historical charm while providing adequate illumination:

• Lighting should complement rather than detract from the island's historic structures
• Outdoor lighting must be designed to avoid adverse impacts on adjacent properties
• Consideration is given to how lighting affects the overall character of the neighborhood

Supporting Kelleys Island's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Kelleys Island's commitment to preserving historic character while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

As a regional manufacturer with deep understanding of the architectural heritage in our area, we appreciate the balance that Kelleys Island strikes between modern lighting needs and historical preservation. The island's focus on directing light appropriately, preventing glare, and maintaining a subdued character in historic areas aligns with our own design philosophy.

We serve as an educational resource for communities like Kelleys Island, helping property owners understand how to implement lighting that meets both regulatory requirements and aesthetic goals. Our experience with projects in historically significant areas has given us insight into creating lighting solutions that respect community character while providing necessary illumination.

For residents facing the challenge of illuminating properties in compliance with regulations, our team can offer guidance on selecting appropriate fixtures and lighting designs that preserve the island's unique atmosphere while meeting practical needs.

Conclusion

Kelleys Island's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to maintaining its historical character and natural beauty while ensuring safety and functionality. By focusing on minimizing light pollution, preventing glare, and encouraging lighting that complements the island's aesthetic, these rules help preserve what makes this Lake Erie gem so special.

Property owners should pay particular attention to requirements regarding sign illumination, lighting placement, and the prevention of light trespass onto neighboring properties. With thoughtful planning and compliance with these regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to the island's continued charm while enjoying adequately illuminated spaces.

As a registered historic place, Kelleys Island's approach to lighting demonstrates how communities can balance modern needs with historical preservation, creating an environment that honors the past while serving present needs.