Lighting Regulations in Memphis, Michigan: Preserving Rural Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Memphis's Lighting Philosophy

Memphis, Michigan, founded in 1848 and named for its scenic bluff overlooking the Belle River (reminiscent of ancient Egypt's Memphis on the Nile), has maintained its small-town charm since achieving city status in 1953. With approximately 1,200 residents spread across portions of both Macomb and St. Clair counties, this community remains deeply connected to its agricultural roots.

Memphis's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving rural character while ensuring safety. The city's regulations aim to reduce light pollution, prevent nuisance lighting, and maintain the visibility of night skies – all while providing adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's a summary of the most critical lighting regulations in Memphis:

• Shielding Required: All exterior lighting must be shielded to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties
• Downward Direction: Exterior lights over 60 watts must have opaque hood shields directing illumination downward
• Parking Areas: Lighting must be confined to and directed onto the parking area only
• Residential Protection: All lighting near residential areas must be directed away from and shielded from those districts
• Driver Safety: Lighting must not adversely affect driver visibility on adjacent thoroughfares
• No Flashing Lights: Food trucks/mobile vendors cannot use flashing, blinking, strobe lights, or similar attention-grabbing effects

General Exterior Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Direction

Memphis prioritizes responsible lighting practices through several key provisions:

• Required Shielding: The code repeatedly states that "all exterior lighting shall be shielded lighting"
• Interference Prevention: Exterior lighting must "not interfere with adjacent properties or street"
• Light Trespass Control: Lighting must be "shielded to prevent unnecessary light or glare from being directed off-site"

Commercial and Mixed-Use Considerations

When commercial properties are near residential areas, additional care is required:

• Lighting for parking areas, buildings, grounds, or signs must be directed away from residential districts
• Illumination must be arranged to not adversely affect driver visibility on adjacent roads
• Commercial operations must not create "flash of lights to a greater degree than is normal" relative to nearby residential uses

Special Development Requirements

For new developments and subdivisions, Memphis requires:

• Building envelopes for lots facing three-way intersections must be aligned to prevent headlight glare into dwelling living areas
• The Zoning Board of Appeals has discretion to impose lighting requirements to protect "public health, safety and general welfare"

Specialized Lighting Regulations

Mobile Food Vendors and Food Trucks

Food trucks and mobile vendors face specific lighting limitations:

• No Attention-Grabbing Effects: Vendors cannot use flashing, blinking, strobe lights, or similar effects
• Light Control: All exterior lights over 60 watts must have opaque hood shields directing illumination downward

Marijuana Establishments

Memphis has distinct requirements for marijuana-related properties:

• Properties must be sufficiently setback or screened to minimize light spillage affecting adjacent properties
• Growing operations using rooms with windows must employ shielding methods between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if lighting exceeds usual residential periods
• These shielding methods must not alter the exterior of the residence

Street Lighting in New Developments

For new subdivisions and developments:

• Street lights must meet city standards and be installed by the developer at all street intersections
• The association of co-owners is responsible for the full cost of operation and maintenance
• Easements (3 feet wide) must be provided along side lot lines for street light dropouts
• Final plats must include notation about street light dropout rights granted to utility companies

Other Specialized Applications

The code includes several unique provisions:

• Wind Energy Systems: WECSs shall not be illuminated, and no lights shall be mounted on any portion
• Sidewalk Openings: Must be protected with substantial iron grating or illuminating pavement
• Sign Lighting: Must comply with city code, with specific provisions for outline lighting

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Compliance Requirements

Property owners in Memphis should prioritize:

1. Installing proper shielding on all exterior lighting fixtures
2. Directing light downward and away from neighboring properties
3. Being especially careful when properties border residential areas
4. Consulting with professionals when installing new lighting systems

Common Compliance Challenges

The most frequent lighting compliance issues include:

• Inadequate shielding allowing light to spill onto neighboring properties
• Insufficient downward direction creating unnecessary glare
• Overly bright lighting that extends beyond property boundaries
• Decorative lighting that creates distractions for drivers

Supporting Memphis's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the importance of preserving Memphis's rural charm and small-town character. With roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, Bock shares Memphis's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation.

We recognize that Memphis values its agricultural heritage and rural aesthetic, which influences its approach to lighting regulations. Our expertise in regional architectural styles and lighting needs aligns with Memphis's vision for maintaining its traditional character while ensuring safety and functionality.

As a resource for communities throughout the region, Bock Lighting appreciates Memphis's efforts to reduce light pollution and preserve the night sky – values we've championed for decades through sustainable and responsible lighting practices.

Our commitment to education about lighting regulations and community-sensitive design makes us a valuable partner for communities like Memphis that are working to maintain their distinctive character while meeting modern lighting needs.

Conclusion

Memphis's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its rural character and small-town atmosphere while ensuring safety and functionality. By requiring shielded lighting, controlling light direction, and preventing light trespass, the city maintains its community aesthetic while protecting property owners from nuisance lighting.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with these regulations before installing or modifying exterior lighting. The emphasis on shielding, downward direction, and preventing interference with neighboring properties provides clear guidance for compliance.

Through these thoughtful lighting provisions, Memphis continues to honor its heritage as a charming small city with deep agricultural roots while adapting to modern needs and expectations.