Lighting Regulations in Lamar Township, Pennsylvania: Balancing Rural Heritage with Modern Requirements

Introduction

Nestled in Clinton County, Lamar Township has maintained its rural character since its establishment in the early 1800s. Named after Revolutionary War hero Major Marien Lamar, the township embodies a deep respect for its historical roots while adapting to contemporary needs.

The township's lighting regulations reflect this balanced approach—preserving the tranquil rural atmosphere while ensuring safety and functionality. Understanding these regulations is essential for property owners and businesses to maintain compliance while respecting the community's values.

Quick Reference Guide

• Exterior Lighting Design: Must shield light sources from adjoining properties and streets
• Glare Control: No excessive brightness or hazardous glare at or beyond lot boundaries
• Illumination Minimum: 1/2 footcandle for required lighting facilities
• Light Placement: Standards must be at least 3 feet beyond paved areas or in islands
• Shielding Requirements: Must eliminate direct light and glare beyond 35° from vertical
• Sign Illumination: Various restrictions based on sign type and location
• Underground Requirements: New developments must install underground conduit

General Exterior Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Glare Prevention

Lamar Township emphasizes responsible lighting practices that respect neighboring properties. The code clearly states that all lighting must be designed and located to shield light sources from adjoining residences and streets.

Additionally, lighting must not cause:

• Excessive brightness
• Glare hazardous to pedestrians
• Glare hazardous to drivers beyond lot boundaries

Direction of Light

A fundamental principle in the township's lighting regulations is consideration for neighbors. The code specifically prohibits directing beams of light toward adjacent properties.

This requirement helps maintain the peaceful rural character that defines Lamar Township while preventing light pollution that could disturb residents or wildlife.

Agricultural Considerations

Farm-related businesses using apparatus that creates noxious light require:

• Greater setbacks from property lines
• Vegetative screening as determined by the Board of Supervisors

This provision recognizes the township's agricultural heritage while ensuring farming operations coexist harmoniously with residential areas.

Development Lighting Standards

Required Lighting Areas

Lighting facilities are mandatory for:

• Multi-family residential developments
• Commercial properties
• Institutional buildings
• Industrial facilities
• Office buildings
• Public road intersections

Technical Specifications

The township has established clear technical requirements for lighting installations:

• Minimum illumination: 1/2 footcandle
• Light standard placement: Must be in islands, on buildings/walls, or at least 3 feet beyond paved areas
• Shielding requirement: Must eliminate direct light and glare beyond an angle of 35° from the vertical plane

Street Lighting Requirements

For developments with new streets, the regulations specify:

• Underground conduit installation according to township-approved plans
• Developer responsibility for costs until street dedication
• Underground wiring installation in single-family developments with new streets

Sign Illumination Guidelines

Residential and Home Business Signs

For home occupations, signage lighting must adhere to specific limitations:

• Signs limited to 4 square feet maximum
• Illumination permitted only by indirect lighting

Hospitality Business Signs

Guest houses and bed and breakfasts in the Village Commercial (VC) and Agricultural (AG) districts have specific requirements:

• Signs limited to 8 square feet maximum
• If illuminated, must use shielded and recessed light at the base or ground-mounted light directed only at the sign surface

Commercial Signage

Village-oriented shops may have:

• Attached signs up to 12 square feet
• Illumination through covered and recessed fixtures only

General commercial sign lighting provisions include:

• Interior lighting with non-glaring lights permitted
• Floodlight or spotlight illumination allowed if properly shielded
• No intermittent flashing or rotating type signs
• All electric illuminated signs must meet National Board of Fire Underwriters standards

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Responsibilities

Property owners should note they are equally liable with tenants for providing adequate lighting in buildings. The code specifically mentions that failure to "sufficiently light" a property constitutes a violation.

Nuisance Prevention

The regulations consistently emphasize preventing light from becoming a nuisance. Uses that create glare outside the building are prohibited, and changes to nonconforming uses must be less objectionable regarding glare than existing conditions.

Special Considerations for Alternative Energy

If you're considering alternative energy systems (particularly solar), remember that all systems must be situated to eliminate concentrated glare onto nearby structures or roadways.

Supporting Lamar Township's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the unique challenges rural communities like Lamar Township face in balancing historical preservation with modern lighting needs. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Lamar Township's commitment to maintaining community character.

Our expertise includes working with communities seeking to preserve their rural identity while ensuring safe, functional lighting solutions. We appreciate Lamar Township's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that protect its historical ambiance.

Bock serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting requirements, helping ensure compliance while respecting the township's vision. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a supportive partner in maintaining the character that makes Lamar Township special.

Conclusion

Lamar Township's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving rural character while ensuring safety and functionality. By focusing on preventing light trespass, controlling glare, and setting specific standards for different applications, the township has created a framework that respects its historical heritage.

Property owners should pay particular attention to shielding requirements, illumination levels, and specific provisions for their property type. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining the peaceful, rural atmosphere that defines Lamar Township.

When planning lighting installations or modifications, consider consulting with lighting professionals familiar with local regulations to ensure compliance while achieving your functional and aesthetic goals.