Lighting Regulations in Kingsley, Michigan: Balancing History, Safety and Night Sky Protection

Introduction

The charming village of Kingsley, Michigan has a rich heritage dating back to 1874. Founded when a New York medic named Brownson purchased land adjacent to the Kingsley area, the community grew when Brownson's settlement of Paradise united with Kingsley in 1893 to form the incorporated village we know today.

As Kingsley evolved from its 19th century roots into a central hub for surrounding townships in Grand Traverse County, the village has maintained a thoughtful approach to development that honors its historical character while meeting modern needs. The village's lighting regulations reflect this balance, aiming to provide adequate illumination for safety while preserving the aesthetic appeal and tranquil atmosphere that residents value.

Quick Reference Guide to Kingsley's Lighting Requirements

Most Important Requirements:

• Night Sky Protection: All lighting must minimize light trespass and direct glare
• Directional Requirements: All lighting must be shielded and directed downward
• Height Restrictions: Light poles and fixtures limited to 16 feet maximum
• Non-Residential Limits: Commercial properties limited to 1 foot-candle average illumination
• Property Line Limits: Maximum 0 foot-candles at adjacent property lines
• Light Source: High-pressure sodium with shielded downlighting required

Understanding Kingsley's Night Sky Regulations

Kingsley's lighting regulations (§152.222) reflect the village's commitment to preserving its small-town character and natural environment. The Night Sky provisions specifically aim to:

Purpose and Intent

• Minimize light trespass from artificial light sources
• Reduce harshly lighted surfaces and direct glare
• Encourage energy-efficient lighting practices
• Provide adequate safety, utility, security and productivity

Design Recommendations

The village recommends exterior lighting fixtures carry the theme and design of the street lighting installed in 2001 on North Brownson Avenue. This helps maintain design consistency throughout the community while honoring its historic character.

Height and Fixture Preferences

• Maximum Height: Light poles and fixtures cannot exceed 16 feet
• Design Approach: Multiple low area lights are preferred over fewer high fixtures
• Light Source: High-pressure sodium with shielded downlighting and nonprojecting lens

Commercial and Non-Residential Lighting Standards

Businesses in Kingsley must adhere to specific lighting standards that balance visibility needs with community aesthetics.

Illumination Levels

• General Commercial/Industrial Areas: Cannot exceed 1 foot-candle on average
• After-Hours Lighting: Limited to 1.5 foot-candles when business is closed
• Gas Station Service Areas: Cannot exceed 12.5 foot-candles on average
• Display Areas: Limited to 12 foot-candles during business hours (or until 11:00 p.m.)
• Property Line Maximum: 0 foot-candles at the boundaries with adjacent properties

Technical Requirements

• Fixture Design: 100% cut-off above the horizontal plane at the lowest part of the light source
• Light Intensity: Less than 10% of peak candela at angles above 75 degrees
• Glare Protection: Lamps must be hooded/louvered to create glare-free areas beyond property lines
• Glare-Free Zone: Extends 8 feet above the highest ground/tallest object on neighboring property

Special Use Requirements

• Drive-In Businesses: All lighting must be shielded from adjacent residential districts
• Gasoline Service Stations: Exterior lighting must deflect away from adjacent properties
• Marihuana Facilities: Lighting between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. requires shielding to prevent spillage

Sign Illumination Requirements

Allowed Sign Lighting

• Light sources must be enclosed or shaded
• Direction must prevent light from shining onto traffic or neighboring properties
• Internally illuminated sign panels must be opaque and saturated in color
• Alternative: Only lettering/logos may be clear/white to minimize glare

Prohibited Sign Lighting

• Explicitly Banned: Any sign with flashing, moving, or oscillating lights
• Signs that could be confused with traffic signals or create a nuisance

Exceptions to Lighting Regulations

Kingsley's regulations include reasonable exceptions for:

• Seasonal and Holiday Lighting: Permitted if not creating direct glare onto other properties or rights-of-way
• U.S. Flag Illumination: Allowed provided lighting doesn't create direct glare beyond property boundaries
• Specialized Business Needs: Automobile/outdoor sales areas requiring high color rendition
• Recreation Areas: Outdoor recreation and amusement areas may use standard sports lighting with proper baffling

What Property Owners Should Know

Residential Considerations

While specific residential lighting standards are limited in the provided regulations, residential yard lights (both building-mounted and pole-mounted) are subject to the Night Sky ordinance. This means homeowners should:

• Choose fixtures that direct light downward
• Avoid light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Select fixtures that complement Kingsley's community character

Business Owner Responsibilities

Business owners must carefully plan their lighting to:

• Meet minimum safety requirements while staying under maximum illumination limits
• Ensure all exterior lighting is directed away from adjacent properties
• Maintain proper lighting documentation for permit applications
• Consider the historic character of Kingsley in lighting design choices

Planning Documentation

When submitting plans, property owners must include:

• Locations of exterior lighting fixtures
• Illustration of illumination areas
• Type of fixtures and shielding to be used

Supporting Kingsley's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands and appreciates communities like Kingsley that strive to balance progress with preservation of character. We recognize the importance of maintaining Kingsley's unique blend of historic charm and modern functionality.

Our experience with regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. Bock shares Kingsley's commitment to responsible lighting practices that respect both community standards and the natural environment.

For communities like Kingsley that value their night sky and historic character, our approach focuses on solutions that enhance safety and functionality while preserving the aesthetic qualities that make a village special. We believe good lighting should support—rather than detract from—a community's identity.

Bock's understanding of how lighting affects community character aligns with Kingsley's thoughtful approach to development. Our team appreciates how proper lighting can contribute to both safety and the preservation of a village's unique sense of place.

Conclusion

Kingsley's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its historic character while meeting modern safety and functionality needs. From the Night Sky protection measures to specific illumination standards for businesses, these requirements help maintain the community's aesthetic appeal and peaceful atmosphere.

Property owners who understand and follow these regulations not only ensure code compliance but also contribute to the shared vision of Kingsley as a community that respects its past while thoughtfully embracing its future. By balancing practical lighting needs with preservation of the night sky and village character, Kingsley continues to honor its rich heritage while serving as a vibrant hub for the surrounding area.

Remember that lighting plans require careful documentation and design, so consult with qualified professionals familiar with Kingsley's specific requirements before beginning any significant exterior lighting project.