Lighting Regulations in Kokomo, Indiana: Balancing History and Safety in the "City of Firsts"

Quick Reference Guide

• Commercial/Industrial Lighting: Must maintain functioning exterior lighting fixtures in sufficient number and brightness for safety and security
• Street Lighting: Must be shielded to prevent upward light spillage and comply with IESNA standards
• Historic District: Light fixtures must be maintained to preserve historical character
• Residential Requirements:
• Habitable rooms: Two electrical outlets or one outlet plus one light fixture
• Bathrooms, utility rooms, halls: At least one ceiling or wall light fixture
• Public Spaces: Common halls and stairways must be adequately illuminated
• Utility Requirements: All proposed utility services including street lights must be underground

Introduction: Kokomo's Lighting Legacy

Founded in 1844 and named after a Miami chieftain, Kokomo has evolved from a trading post established by David Foster into a vibrant city of around 58,000 residents. Known as the "City of Firsts" for its numerous technological innovations and contributions to the automotive industry, Kokomo balances progress with preservation.

The city's lighting regulations reflect this balance—ensuring safety and functionality while respecting Kokomo's distinctive architectural heritage. From the historic Seiberling Mansion to modern developments, these regulations help maintain the city's unique character while meeting contemporary needs.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Indoor Lighting Standards

Kokomo's building code establishes clear standards for interior lighting in residential properties:

• Every habitable room must have at least:
• Two separate floor or wall-type electrical outlets, OR
• One outlet plus one ceiling-type electric light fixture
• Special rooms requiring lighting fixtures:
• Water closet compartments
• Bathrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Furnace rooms
• Public halls

All outlets and fixtures must be properly installed, maintained in good and safe working condition, and safely connected to the power source.

Natural Light Requirements

The city also values natural light in living spaces:

• Habitable rooms must have at least one window or skylight facing outdoors
• The minimum glass area must be at least 7% of the room's floor area
• Bathrooms must either meet the same natural light requirements OR have adequate ventilation with an approved ventilation system

Common Areas in Multi-Family Buildings

For buildings with multiple dwelling units:

• Every public hall and stairway must be adequately lighted according to Administrative Building Council rules
• Common halls and stairways need adequate illumination to ensure resident safety
• Spaces must have sufficient light to prevent endangerment to health and safety

Commercial and Industrial Lighting

Safety and Security Focus

The code emphasizes that exterior lighting for commercial and industrial properties must be:

• Properly maintained - no broken or non-functioning fixtures
• Sufficient in number to ensure safety and security
• Adequate in brightness for employees and patrons

This focus on well-maintained exterior lighting helps reduce potential hazards and deters criminal activity, supporting Kokomo's commitment to public safety.

Maintenance Requirements

The regulations specifically identify broken, non-functioning, or burned-out fixtures as violations, emphasizing the importance of regular lighting maintenance for commercial property owners.

Historic District Lighting Considerations

Preserving Kokomo's Character

In Kokomo's Historic District, the regulations take a preservation-focused approach:

• Light fixtures on historic buildings must be reconstructed, altered, or maintained in a manner that preserves their historical and architectural character
• These requirements apply to the buildings themselves and all appurtenances, including light fixtures
• Modifications must respect the original character and design elements

These provisions help maintain the authentic character that makes Kokomo's historic areas distinctive and culturally valuable.

Street Lighting Standards

Light Pollution Control

Kokomo has implemented specific standards for street lighting to reduce light pollution:

• Shielding requirement: Street lights must be shielded with opaque material to prevent upward light spillage
• Compliance standard: All street lighting must meet the standards of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA)
• Developer options: Developers may use alternative lighting fixtures with City Engineer approval, but must pay associated costs

Underground Utilities

The code specifically requires that:

• All proposed utility services, including street lights, must be installed underground
• This requirement helps maintain an uncluttered visual environment and protects utilities from weather-related damage

Specialized Lighting Applications

Seasonal and Holiday Lighting

The code includes specific provisions for seasonal lighting displays:

• Exemptions for charitable solicitations related to seasonal observances that typically occur after sunset
• Special consideration for seasonal light displays that operate for periods greater than 48 hours

Utility and Service Areas

Safety in maintenance areas is addressed through specific lighting requirements:

• Service entrance equipment, distribution equipment, panel boards, and other electrical equipment requiring maintenance must have adequate illumination
• This ensures that maintenance personnel can safely access and service these critical systems

What Property Owners Should Know

Residential Property Compliance

If you own a home or residential property in Kokomo:

• Check fixtures regularly for proper functioning
• Ensure all required spaces have the mandated lighting fixtures
• Maintain natural light access according to the 7% glass area rule
• Keep all fixtures in good working order

Commercial Property Requirements

For business owners, particular attention should be paid to:

• Exterior lighting maintenance - promptly replace non-functioning fixtures
• Adequate brightness levels for customer and employee safety
• Proper illumination of service equipment areas
• Regular inspections to ensure continued compliance

Supporting Kokomo's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, understands the unique balance Kokomo strives to maintain between innovation and preservation. As a manufacturer with deep regional knowledge, we appreciate the "City of Firsts" approach to lighting that enhances safety while respecting historical character.

Our experience with communities similar to Kokomo has shown that thoughtful lighting solutions can support a city's identity while meeting modern needs. We share Kokomo's commitment to preserving architectural heritage while implementing practical lighting solutions.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations, offering expertise in solutions that align with both compliance requirements and community values. Our understanding of regional architectural styles makes us a valuable partner in maintaining the distinctive character that makes Kokomo special.

Conclusion

Kokomo's lighting regulations reflect the city's dual commitment to innovation and preservation. From ensuring adequate light for safety to preserving the character of historic fixtures, these standards help maintain Kokomo's unique identity as the "City of Firsts."

For property owners, understanding and following these requirements not only ensures compliance but contributes to the overall character and safety of the community. By balancing functional needs with respect for historical elements, Kokomo's approach to lighting regulation serves as a model for communities seeking to honor their past while embracing their future.