Lighting Regulations in Lower Chichester Township, Pennsylvania: A Guide to Community-Friendly Lighting Practices

Introduction

Lower Chichester Township, with its roots dating back to 1679, represents one of Pennsylvania's earliest settlements. Incorporated in 1682 and named after Chichester in Sussex, England, this historic community has maintained its predominantly residential character through centuries of development. The township's transformation into a first-class township in 1918 marked a significant milestone in its governance evolution.

This rich historical background and close-knit community atmosphere inform much of Lower Chichester's approach to development regulations, including those related to lighting. While the township's lighting regulations are relatively straightforward, they reflect a fundamental commitment to maintaining neighborhood harmony and preventing nuisance conditions for residents.

Quick Reference Guide to Lower Chichester Lighting Regulations

• Light Trespass Prevention: No glare shall be perceptible at or beyond lot boundaries
• Swimming Pool Lighting: Must be arranged to direct light away from adjoining properties
• Business Lighting: Cannot be "noxious or offensive" through illumination
• Construction Areas: Excavation areas require adequate lighting during dusk and nighttime
• Food Preparation Areas: Must be "well lighted" (interior requirement)
• Neon Lighting: Not permitted within certain district boundaries

Understanding Light Trespass Requirements

The Core Principle

The central theme in Lower Chichester's lighting regulations is preventing unwanted light from affecting neighboring properties. This is clearly stated in multiple sections of the township code:

• "No glare shall be perceptible at any lot line."
• "No use shall produce any heat or glare perceptible at or beyond the lot boundaries."

District-Specific Restrictions

The township takes an even stronger stance in certain districts, where the code stipulates:

• "No use shall utilize lighting in a manner which produces glare perceptible at or beyond the District boundaries"
• "Neon lighting is not permitted within the District boundaries"

Practical Implementation

While the regulations don't specify exact measurements for determining compliance, the principle is clear: your lighting should remain contained within your property boundaries. This approach gives property owners flexibility in how they achieve compliance while protecting neighbors from light intrusion.

Special Lighting Considerations

Swimming Pool Lighting

If you own a private swimming pool in Lower Chichester Township, specific lighting regulations apply:

• "No artificial lighting shall be maintained or operated in connection with private swimming pools in such location or manner as to be a nuisance or any unreasonable annoyance to neighboring properties"
• Lighting must be "arranged and shaded as to reflect light away from adjoining premises"

Business Lighting Standards

For commercial properties, the regulations state that "No business whatsoever shall be conducted or maintained that is noxious or offensive by reason of... illumination..."

This provision ensures that business lighting doesn't create a nuisance for surrounding properties, particularly important in a township with Lower Chichester's mixed residential-commercial character.

Food Service Establishments

For restaurants and food service businesses, interior lighting requirements specify that "All rooms in which food or drink is stored or prepared or in which utensils are washed shall be well lighted." This requirement focuses on safety and sanitation rather than aesthetic considerations.

Construction and Development Lighting

Excavation Safety

During construction activities, particularly those involving excavation, specific lighting requirements apply:

• "Any applicant who shall make an opening or excavation shall at all times until completion of the work provide for the barricading of the area and shall provide adequate lighting during the hours of dusk and dark."

This regulation ensures that construction areas remain safe during nighttime hours, preventing accidents and injuries.

Development Standards

For new developments, the code notes that "Street signs, lighting and other instruments shall be located along the street and shall be improved according to Township standards." While specific standards aren't detailed in the provided extracts, this indicates that new development must comply with township lighting specifications for street lighting.

What Property Owners Should Know

Balancing Needs with Neighborhood Consideration

Lower Chichester's lighting regulations strike a balance between allowing property owners to meet their lighting needs while preventing negative impacts on neighbors. The focus on preventing glare and light trespass at property boundaries gives homeowners flexibility in lighting design while protecting community interests.

Best Practices for Compliance

While the township doesn't provide detailed technical specifications, property owners can ensure compliance by:

• Installing directional fixtures that aim light downward
• Using shields or cutoffs to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties
• Selecting appropriate brightness levels for the intended purpose
• Considering motion sensors or timers to reduce unnecessary illumination

The General Standard

The overarching principle in Lower Chichester Township appears to be reasonableness – lighting should serve its purpose without creating a nuisance for others.

Supporting Lower Chichester's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with community character in historically significant areas like Lower Chichester Township. Our roots in the Northeast region since 1918 have given us unique insight into the architectural traditions and community values that define places like Lower Chichester.

We appreciate Lower Chichester's approach to lighting regulations, which focuses on preventing nuisance conditions while allowing for practical lighting solutions. This balanced approach aligns with our commitment to responsible lighting practices that respect both property owners' needs and community character.

As a resource for understanding and implementing community-friendly lighting solutions, we help property owners navigate lighting regulations while enhancing safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Our experience with projects in historic communities has taught us the importance of thoughtful lighting design that complements architectural heritage.

For communities like Lower Chichester with rich historical backgrounds, we emphasize lighting approaches that enhance rather than detract from the traditional character and residential atmosphere that residents value.

Conclusion

Lower Chichester Township's lighting regulations reflect its character as a close-knit, historically significant community with predominantly residential areas. While not highly detailed or technical, the regulations emphasize preventing light trespass and nuisance conditions – principles that support neighborhood harmony and quality of life.

For property owners, the regulations provide a straightforward framework: illuminate your property as needed, but ensure your lighting doesn't negatively impact your neighbors. This common-sense approach reflects Lower Chichester's balanced approach to development and community standards.

By understanding and respecting these lighting principles, residents and businesses can contribute to maintaining Lower Chichester Township's character as a pleasant, historically significant community where neighborly consideration remains a core value.