Lighting Regulations in Kirtland Hills, Ohio: Preserving Rural Charm While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Lighting in Historical Context

Kirtland Hills, Ohio, incorporated in 1926, stands as a testament to thoughtful community planning and historical preservation. With a population of just 646 (as of the 2010 census), this small village maintains its distinctive rural character through carefully crafted regulations, including those governing outdoor lighting.

The village's proximity to historically significant sites, including the Kirtland Temple National Historic Landmark, underscores the community's connection to heritage preservation. Kirtland Hills' lighting regulations reflect a deliberate balance between modern needs and the preservation of the village's serene rural atmosphere.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's what property owners need to know about lighting regulations in Kirtland Hills:

• Residential outdoor lighting must be directed and shielded to prevent light from crossing property boundaries
• Construction sites require appropriate warning lights at night for safety
• Sign illumination cannot use flashing or intermittent lights (except for time/temperature displays)
• Telecommunications towers should not be illuminated unless required by law
• Violations of outdoor lighting regulations constitute a minor misdemeanor

Residential Lighting Requirements

Preventing Light Trespass

The village code (Section 521.11) is clear about residential lighting boundaries. All outdoor illumination in residential areas must be:

• Properly directed and shielded to prevent light from shining beyond property boundaries
• Controlled to avoid excessive illumination or annoying glare affecting neighboring properties
• Managed to prevent detrimental impacts on vehicular traffic on village roadways

Understanding Enforcement

Kirtland Hills takes lighting compliance seriously:

• Violations are classified as minor misdemeanors
• Each day a violation continues is considered a separate offense
• This approach emphasizes the importance of prompt compliance with regulations

Lighting for Construction and Safety

Construction Site Requirements

Section 521.03 addresses lighting for safety purposes:

• Excavations, wells, cesspools, and structures under construction must be guarded by warning devices or lights at night
• These safety measures are required to prevent dangerous conditions that might threaten public safety

Protecting Public Safety Measures

The village code also protects lighting installed for public safety:

• It is prohibited to destroy, remove, damage, or extinguish any barricade or warning light
• This regulation recognizes the critical role of warning lights in public safety

Sign Illumination Standards

Permitted and Prohibited Lighting

Kirtland Hills maintains strict standards for sign illumination:

• Prohibited: Flashing, moving, or intermittent lights on signs
• Exception: Signs indicating time or temperature may use changing lights
• String lights cannot be used for advertising purposes

Residential Protection

To preserve residential tranquility:

• Sign illumination must not emit direct glare into or upon any residential building
• This requirement balances commercial needs with residential quality of life

Telecommunications Facility Lighting

Minimal Lighting Approach

The village code takes a conservative approach to lighting telecommunications facilities:

• Antennas and towers should not be illuminated except when required by law
• Lighting fixtures and signs may not be attached to antennas or towers

FAA Compliance with Minimal Impact

When lighting is legally required:

• White strobe lights are not permitted at night if the FAA allows less disruptive alternatives
• This provision minimizes the visual impact on the night sky and surrounding properties

Security Lighting Oversight

For telecommunications facilities:

• Security lighting requires prior approval from the Commission and Council
• This additional oversight ensures that security needs are met while preserving the village's character

Supporting Kirtland Hills' Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Kirtland Hills' commitment to preserving its rural charm while ensuring safety and functionality. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share the village's dedication to thoughtful development that respects historical character.

Bock Lighting's experience with regional architectural styles and understanding of community lighting needs makes us a valuable resource for Kirtland Hills residents navigating lighting regulations. We recognize the delicate balance the village maintains between modern lighting requirements and preservation of its serene atmosphere.

Our team appreciates the importance of properly directed and shielded lighting that prevents light trespass—a key concern in Kirtland Hills' regulations. We're committed to supporting communities like Kirtland Hills in maintaining their distinctive character through appropriate lighting solutions.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When installing outdoor lighting in Kirtland Hills:

• Consider your neighbors: Ensure all fixtures are properly shielded to prevent light from crossing property lines
• Evaluate positioning: The direction of lights should be carefully planned to avoid traffic impacts
• Choose appropriate fixtures: Select lighting that can be adequately controlled and directed

Understanding Enforcement

Compliance with lighting regulations is not optional:

• Violations constitute a minor misdemeanor
• Each day of non-compliance is treated as a separate offense
• Prompt correction of violations is essential

Special Considerations for Businesses

Commercial property owners should be especially mindful of:

• Sign lighting restrictions that prohibit flashing or intermittent illumination
• Potential impacts on nearby residential properties
• Approval requirements for certain types of lighting installations

Conclusion

Kirtland Hills' lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its rural character while ensuring safety and functionality. The focus on preventing light trespass, controlling glare, and minimizing unnecessary illumination supports the serene atmosphere that makes Kirtland Hills special.

Property owners play an essential role in maintaining this balance by ensuring their outdoor lighting complies with village regulations. Through thoughtful lighting choices, residents and businesses alike contribute to the preservation of Kirtland Hills' distinctive character for future generations.

By understanding and following these lighting requirements, community members help maintain the village's historical integrity and rural charm that has defined Kirtland Hills since its incorporation in 1926.