Lighting Regulations in New Lexington, Ohio: Preserving Historical Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Founded in 1817, New Lexington serves as the county seat of Perry County and boasts a rich architectural heritage. From the majestic Perry County Courthouse erected in 1887 to the historic Tecumseh Theater built in 1907, this charming town values its historical character. The 2020 Main Street renovation, funded by a Streetscape Grant, introduced decorative street lighting that enhances the town's historical appeal while meeting modern needs.

The lighting regulations in New Lexington reflect this balance between preservation and functionality, ensuring illumination serves the community while respecting its historical character and residential comfort.

Quick Reference Guide

• Tree Maintenance: Property owners must prune trees to avoid obstructing street lamps
• Illuminated Signs: No flashing, intermittent, rotating, or moving lights allowed
• Residential Impact: Lighting must be directed away from adjacent properties
• Swimming Pools: Lighting must confine direct beams to the property
• Commercial Areas: Must operate substantially free from light pollution and glare
• Home Occupations: Cannot create glare detectable beyond property boundaries
• Parking Areas: Lighting must reflect away from adjoining residential properties
• Construction Sites: Warning lights required for excavations and obstructions

Municipal Lighting Responsibilities

City-Maintained Lighting

New Lexington's municipality bears responsibility for "the lighting...of all streets, alleys, and public buildings and places." This commitment dates back decades, with Ordinance No. 67-7 (dated March 13, 1967) documenting the formal acceptance of Ohio Power Company's proposal for street lighting in the village.

Historical Context and Modern Implementation

The 2020 Main Street renovation project introduced decorative street lighting that honors the town's historical character while providing necessary illumination. These improvements demonstrate New Lexington's dedication to enhancing public spaces through thoughtful lighting design.

Tree Management for Lighting Effectiveness

To ensure street lighting functions properly:

• Property owner responsibility: Every owner of trees overhanging streets must prune branches that obstruct light from street lamps
• City authority: The City has the right to prune trees or shrubs on private property when they interfere with street light distribution or traffic control visibility

Residential Property Lighting Requirements

Swimming Pool Illumination

For private swimming pools, lighting must be carefully controlled:

• Beam containment: All lights illuminating swimming pools and adjacent areas must be designed, located and installed to confine direct beams to the lot or parcel on which the pool is located

Home Occupation Considerations

If operating a business from your home:

• No equipment or process shall create glare detectable to normal senses off the property
• Lighting must not disturb neighboring properties

General Residential Guidelines

For all residential properties:

• Lighting should be stationary and directed away from adjacent properties
• Illumination intensity should be compatible with the neighborhood
• Outdoor areas should have sufficient lighting with minimal shadows
• Light should be contained within property boundaries

Commercial and Public Space Lighting

Off-Street Parking Areas

Careful lighting design is required for parking facilities:

• Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining residential premises
• Illumination must not interfere with traffic on adjoining streets
• Lighting should not be confused with traffic control signals

Business Operations Standards

Commercial operations must:

• Function substantially free from light and glare
• Not create glare that becomes an objectionable influence to surrounding properties
• Maintain lighting that is compatible with neighborhood standards

Homeless Shelter Requirements

Facilities serving homeless populations have specific lighting requirements:

• Lighting must be stationary and directed away from adjacent properties
• Intensity must be compatible with the neighborhood
• Management policies must include specific hours of operation and standard lights-out times

Safety and Construction Lighting

Excavation and Construction Sites

Safety lighting is mandatory for construction work:

• Any excavation or obstruction must be marked with illuminated warning lamps
• At least two warning lights must be installed at each end of an obstruction
• For areas exceeding fifty feet, one additional lamp for each added fifty feet is required
• Lights must be securely and conspicuously posted

Abandoned Excavations

For safety purposes:

• No abandoned excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction are permitted without adequate protection by warning devices or lights at night

Signage Illumination Standards

Prohibited Lighting Features

Signs in New Lexington have specific lighting restrictions:

• No flashing, intermittent, rotating, or moving lights are permitted
• No lighted signs are allowed for garage sales
• Signs must not be positioned where illumination could be confused with traffic signals

Electrical Standards

For illuminated signs:

• All wiring, fittings, and materials must comply with local/state electrical code requirements
• Installation must prioritize safety and code compliance

Supporting New Lexington's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the delicate balance New Lexington maintains between historical preservation and modern illumination needs. Our experience with communities similar to New Lexington has given us appreciation for how proper lighting can enhance historical architecture while providing necessary functionality.

We recognize New Lexington's commitment to preservation, particularly evident in projects like the 2020 Main Street renovation with its decorative street lighting. Our team stays informed about local regulations to serve as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting requirements.

As a regional manufacturer, we understand Ohio's architectural heritage and the importance of lighting solutions that respect community character. While New Lexington continues to preserve landmarks like the Perry County Courthouse and Tecumseh Theater, proper lighting plays a crucial role in showcasing these historical treasures.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Tips

When planning your lighting:

• Containment is key: Ensure light stays within your property boundaries
• Direction matters: Aim lights away from neighboring properties and public rights-of-way
• Consistency counts: Match lighting intensity with neighborhood standards
• Safety first: Provide sufficient illumination for security while avoiding excessive brightness
• Consult professionals: When in doubt, seek advice from lighting experts familiar with local regulations

Common Compliance Challenges

Many property owners struggle with:

• Balance between security and compliance: Achieving adequate security lighting without creating light trespass
• Historical property considerations: Finding fixtures that complement historical architecture while meeting modern standards
• Understanding technical requirements: Navigating illumination standards without specific numerical guidelines

Conclusion

New Lexington's lighting regulations reflect its character as a community that values both historical preservation and modern functionality. By maintaining thoughtful illumination standards, the town ensures safety and visibility while preserving its unique charm and protecting residential comfort.

Property owners play a crucial role in this balance, from maintaining trees that might block street lights to ensuring private lighting remains confined to their property. As New Lexington continues to preserve its historical treasures while embracing appropriate modernization, lighting will remain an essential element in defining the town's character for future generations.