Lighting Regulations in Mason, Ohio: Balancing Growth, Safety and Community Character

Introduction

Founded in 1803 by Revolutionary War veteran William Mason, the city of Mason has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving community known for its careful balance of development and preservation. As Mason expanded rapidly following the construction of Interstates 75 and 71 in the mid-20th century, the need for comprehensive lighting regulations became increasingly important.

Today's lighting ordinances in Mason reflect the community's commitment to maintaining attractive streetscapes, ensuring public safety, and preserving the character that makes Mason special. From street lighting in new subdivisions to sign illumination standards, these regulations help create a cohesive community aesthetic while minimizing negative impacts on neighboring properties.

Quick Reference Guide: Mason's Key Lighting Requirements

Most Critical Lighting Requirements:

• Light Trespass Limits: Maximum 0.5 foot candles at property lines
• Fixture Requirements: Non-decorative lighting must use fully shielded, cut-off fixtures
• Pole Height Restrictions: Light poles cannot exceed 30 feet in height
• Sign Illumination: Primarily externally lit with shielded, diffused lights
• Prohibited Lighting: Neon accent lighting on buildings, internally illuminated canopies/awnings
• Electronic Displays: Maximum brightness of 7500 nits (day) and 500 nits (night)

Street Lighting Requirements

Mason's code includes detailed provisions for street lighting in new developments, balancing safety needs with aesthetic considerations.

Planning and Approval Process

New subdivisions require a comprehensive street lighting plan that must be submitted to the City Engineer for approval. This ensures consistent illumination throughout residential and commercial areas.

Installation Standards

• Street lights must be positioned approximately 150 feet apart along existing or proposed streets
• Additional lights may be required by the City Engineer for public safety
• Fixture design, wiring, and poles must be uniform throughout the subdivision
• Construction of street light poles cannot begin until City Engineer approval

Cost and Maintenance Responsibilities

The subdivider bears all costs of street lighting construction in new developments. However, once installed, approved by the City Engineer, and accepted by City Council, the city assumes the cost of providing electrical power to the fixtures.

For lights that Duke Energy will not maintain, responsibility falls to either the developer or the homeowners' association.

Property Lighting Standards

Mason's general lighting regulations focus on minimizing negative impacts while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and security.

Light Fixture Requirements

• Non-decorative lighting: Must use fully shielded, cut-off type fixtures
• Pedestrian areas: Decorative, pedestrian-scale lights are required in all areas of pedestrian activity
• Light placement: Light poles should be located in landscape islands where possible
• Architectural integration: All exterior lighting should be part of the overall architectural and landscape design concept

Light Trespass Prevention

• Maximum illumination at all property lines: 0.5 foot candles as demonstrated on a photometric plan
• Exterior lighting must not have an adverse effect on neighboring properties
• Designs must specify appropriate light cut-off angles for all sources of strong illumination

Design Considerations

• Height of exterior lighting fixtures generally should not exceed the height of the principal building
• All exterior lighting should balance energy conservation with safety and security needs
• Fixtures should be concealed or harmonious with other project design materials
• If using high-pressure sodium vapor luminaries for parking lots, they should be color-corrected for compatibility

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Different types of establishments have specific lighting requirements tailored to their operation and potential impact on surroundings.

Bed and Breakfast Inns/Lodges

• All lighting must have a total cutoff angle of less than 90 degrees
• Maximum illumination: 1.0 foot candles
• Light must not spill over onto adjacent property

Sexually Oriented Businesses

• Exterior illumination: Minimum of 1 foot candle measured at floor level
• Interior illumination: Minimum of 5 foot candles measured at floor level
• Illumination must be maintained whenever customers are present
• Entry areas must be well-lit for posted regulations

Parking Areas

• Lighting must be arranged to deflect light away from adjoining premises in residential districts
• In office parks, mounting height must not exceed 20 feet above ground level
• Poles and fixtures must be decorative and character-appropriate

Sign Illumination Regulations

Mason has detailed regulations concerning how signs may be illuminated to ensure visibility while preventing light pollution and traffic hazards.

General Sign Lighting Requirements

• Signs shall be illuminated only by steady, stationary, shielded light sources directed solely at the sign or internal to it
• Signs in the B-1 Central Business District must be externally lit
• Glaring, unshielded or undiffused lights are prohibited
• Illumination by bare bulbs or flames is prohibited
• Sign illumination must not create traffic hazards

Maximum Illumination Levels

• Illumination from all signs and sign lighting on nonresidential property shall not exceed one-half foot candle at a height of five feet when measured at any residential property line or road right-of-way

Special Sign Types

Ground-Mounted Signs

• Must be externally lit with shielded and diffused lights

Projecting Signs

• Cannot be internally illuminated
• External lighting must be properly shielded to prevent glare
• Lighting must not create visual hazards for vehicles or nuisances for nearby dwellings

Electronic Gasoline Price Signs

• Must use LED technology displaying appearance of a single color
• Must include automatic dimming capabilities
• Maximum daytime brightness: 7500 nits
• Maximum nighttime brightness: 500 nits
• Must be static (no animation, scrolling, moving or flashing messages)

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Mason's lighting regulations is critical for property owners planning new construction or modifications to existing lighting systems.

Planning Your Lighting Design

Before installing new exterior lighting, consider both the functional and aesthetic aspects. Your lighting plan should:

• Prioritize fixtures that direct light downward to control glare
• Incorporate appropriate cut-off angles to prevent light trespass
• Balance energy efficiency with adequate illumination for safety
• Integrate with your overall architectural and landscape design

Common Compliance Issues

The most frequent violations of Mason's lighting code include:

• Excessive light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Unshielded fixtures that create glare
• Light poles that exceed maximum height restrictions
• Inappropriate sign illumination methods
• Use of prohibited lighting types (like neon accents on buildings)

Permitting Process

New commercial lighting installations typically require approval as part of the site plan review process. Be prepared to submit:

• A detailed lighting plan showing fixture locations and types
• Photometric analysis demonstrating compliance with foot candle limitations
• Specifications for all proposed lighting fixtures
• Information on how lighting integrates with architectural elements

Supporting Mason's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Mason's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with community character. As Mason has evolved from a small village to a vibrant city, lighting has played an important role in defining public spaces while respecting the community's aesthetic priorities.

Understanding Regional Needs

With deep experience in Ohio communities, Bock Lighting appreciates Mason's thoughtful approach to illumination that enhances safety and functionality while minimizing negative impacts. Our understanding of regional architectural styles helps property owners select lighting solutions that complement Mason's distinctive character.

Community Education and Resources

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. We believe informed decisions lead to better outcomes for both individual properties and the community as a whole. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Mason's vision for controlled development that preserves community values.

Local Expertise

Our local presence enables us to better understand the specific needs and standards of communities like Mason. We recognize that each city has unique priorities, and we're committed to supporting lighting solutions that respect Mason's balance of growth and preservation.

Conclusion

Mason's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to thoughtful development that respects community character while ensuring safety and functionality. By establishing clear standards for illumination levels, fixture types, and design integration, these regulations help maintain Mason's attractive environment for residents and businesses alike.

Whether you're planning a new development, renovating an existing property, or simply updating your exterior lighting, understanding these regulations is essential for creating lighting that enhances both your property and the broader community. With careful planning and attention to these requirements, your lighting can contribute positively to Mason's distinctive character for years to come.