Lighting Regulations in Napoleon, Ohio: Balancing Historic Character with Modern Needs

Introduction

Napoleon, Ohio, a city steeped in history and architectural heritage, has evolved since its founding in 1832 while maintaining its distinctive small-town character. Named after Napoleon Bonaparte, this Henry County seat grew significantly with the completion of the Miami and Erie Canal in 1843, which brought German immigrants and economic prosperity to the region.

Today's Napoleon, with its population of 8,862 (as of the 2020 census), continues to balance preserving its historical charm with accommodating modern development needs. This balance extends to the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to maintain the aesthetic integrity of historical districts while ensuring functionality and safety.

Quick Reference Guide to Napoleon's Lighting Regulations

• Commercial lighting restrictions: Flashing lights, unshielded incandescent lamps, and emergency vehicle-type lighting are prohibited in Commercial Districts
• Sign illumination: Signs may be illuminated unless specifically prohibited, but flashing/blinking signs are not allowed (except electronic message signs)
• Construction safety: Warning lights required at night for excavations and construction sites
• Telecommunications towers: Cannot be illuminated unless required by law (FAA regulations)
• Street light clearance: Property owners must prune trees/shrubs to prevent obstruction of street lights
• Residential considerations: Night illumination into residential areas is monitored

Commercial District Lighting Requirements

Prohibited Lighting Types

Napoleon's commercial districts have specific prohibitions on certain types of lighting. According to the city code:

• Flashing devices are not permitted
• Unshielded incandescent lamps are prohibited
• Attention-attracting lighting similar to those used by emergency vehicles is not allowed

Design Considerations

The city code states that "size, location, design, color, texture, lighting and materials of all permanent signs and outdoor advertising structures or features shall not detract from the design of proposed building and structure and the surrounding properties."

This language emphasizes that lighting should complement rather than detract from Napoleon's architectural character, particularly in areas with historical significance.

Sign Illumination Standards

General Permissions

Napoleon's code generally permits sign illumination, stating that "Unless otherwise prohibited by this Sign Code, all signs may be illuminated."

Restrictions on Obtrusive Lighting

However, there are important limitations:

• Signs cannot be illuminated in a way that would unreasonably interfere with neighbors' quiet enjoyment of their property
• Illumination must not distract motorists in a way that creates safety hazards
• Animated signs with flashing, scintillating, blinking or traveling lights are prohibited
• Exception: Electronic changing message signs specifically designed for replaceable copy are permitted

Safety and Construction Lighting

Excavation and Construction Site Requirements

Napoleon's code specifically addresses safety lighting at construction sites and excavations:

• Excavations, wells, cesspools, and structures under construction must be guarded by warning devices or lights at night
• These safety measures must be sufficient to prevent dangerous conditions to life or limb
• It is prohibited to destroy, remove, damage, or extinguish any barricade or warning light placed for public protection

Telecommunications Tower Lighting

The city has specific requirements for telecommunications infrastructure:

• Wireless telecommunication antennas or towers shall not be illuminated except as required by law
• If the FAA requires lighting, the "most visually nonobtrusive state-of-the-art lighting" must be used

Property Maintenance and Street Lighting

Tree Maintenance Near Street Lights

Property owners have responsibilities related to street lighting:

• Owners or occupants of property bordering street rights-of-way must prune trees or shrubs so they don't obstruct or shade street lights
• This requirement helps ensure public safety through adequate street illumination

Light Standard Placement

The code includes some regulations about where lighting fixtures can be placed:

• Light standards may be located in required front yards, but not within 20 feet of the front lot line
• In C-4 Planned Business Districts, lighting within front yards must be screened by dense planting or decorative fencing

Municipal Lighting Services and Rates

Napoleon provides lighting fixtures and poles to properties with specific rate structures:

Security/Outdoor Light Rate Schedule (non-metered)

When City Provides Fixture Only:

• 175 watt mercury vapor: $8.25
• 100 watt and below high pressure sodium: $6.75
• 150 watt high pressure sodium: $7.75
• 250 watt mercury vapor: $10.00
• 400 watt high pressure sodium: $13.25

When City Provides Pole and Fixture:

• 175 watt mercury vapor: $16.25
• 100 watt and below high pressure sodium: $14.74
• 150 watt high pressure sodium: $15.75
• 250 watt mercury vapor: $18.00
• 400 watt high pressure sodium: $21.25

For bulb types not specifically listed, the rate is established based on the closest comparable size and type.

What Property Owners Should Know

Balancing Aesthetics and Function

Napoleon's lighting regulations reflect the city's dual priorities of preserving its historical character while meeting modern functional needs. Property owners should consider:

• How lighting choices affect neighboring properties, particularly in residential areas
• The importance of maintaining trees and shrubs to prevent obstruction of street lights
• The prohibitions against certain types of lighting, especially in commercial districts

Compliance Assistance

While Napoleon's lighting code doesn't specify detailed technical requirements like minimum Color Rendering Index (CRI) or specific footcandle levels, property owners should focus on:

• Ensuring lighting doesn't create nuisances for neighbors
• Maintaining safety lighting at construction sites
• Following sign illumination regulations if applicable
• Consulting with the city planning department for any questions about specific projects

Supporting Napoleon's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the unique balance Napoleon seeks between preserving its historic character and providing modern lighting solutions. As a regional manufacturer, we appreciate Napoleon's rich architectural heritage and the care taken to maintain the city's distinctive atmosphere.

Our experience with communities similar to Napoleon has given us insight into lighting approaches that respect historical contexts while meeting contemporary needs for safety and functionality. We're committed to helping property owners understand and navigate lighting regulations to enhance community character.

Bock shares Napoleon's commitment to thoughtful development that honors the past while embracing the future. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a resource for property owners looking to contribute positively to Napoleon's visual landscape.

Conclusion

Napoleon's lighting regulations, though not extensively detailed, reflect its values as a community that cherishes its historical character while embracing modern development. The focus on preventing obtrusive lighting, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring appropriate commercial and sign lighting demonstrates a balanced approach.

Property owners navigating these regulations should remember that the spirit behind the code is to maintain Napoleon's unique character and ensure all lighting contributes positively to the community's aesthetic and functional needs. When in doubt about specific requirements, consulting with city officials remains the best approach to ensure compliance while contributing to Napoleon's distinctive charm.