Lighting Regulations in North Pekin, Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide for Property Owners and Businesses

Introduction

North Pekin, Illinois, a charming village in Tazewell County, has developed lighting regulations that reflect its unique character as a residential community within the broader Peoria Metropolitan Area. As part of the greater Pekin area, which has roots dating back to the 1850s, North Pekin has crafted lighting standards that balance modern safety requirements with the preservation of its residential atmosphere.

The village's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to community planning, as evidenced by its active Planning & Zoning Commission. These regulations aim to ensure adequate lighting for safety while preventing light pollution that could disrupt the residential character that makes North Pekin special.

Quick Reference Guide

Essential Lighting Requirements in North Pekin:

• Shielding Requirements: All lighting must be shielded from adjacent residential districts and abutting streets
• Exit Lighting: Assembly halls (100+ capacity) require exit signs with 6-inch letters and red globe lights
• Business Lighting: Establishments serving alcohol require continuous white lighting during business hours
• Sign Illumination: Must not cast bright light on residential areas or public streets
• Prohibited Lighting: Flashing lights, rotating beacons, strobes, and high-intensity lighting generally prohibited
• Clearance Requirements: Illuminated metal signs require 9-foot clearance to grade

Exit and Safety Lighting Requirements

Assembly Hall Regulations

For buildings used as assembly halls with capacity for 100 or more people, North Pekin has specific requirements to ensure public safety:

• Exit doors must have signs with the word "Exit" in letters at least 6 inches high
• A light with a red globe must be placed at or over each exit sign
• These lights must remain on during the entire period the hall is open to the public
• Lighting must continue until the audience has completely left the premises

Business Interior Lighting

The village code specifies that rooms where alcoholic beverages are sold for on-premises consumption must maintain proper illumination:

• Areas must be continuously lighted during business hours
• Lighting can be natural or artificial white light
• Illumination must be sufficient so that all parts of the interior are clearly visible

This requirement likely stems from public safety concerns and the need for proper supervision of alcohol service areas.

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting

North Pekin's code provides detailed regulations for illuminated signage:

• Illuminated signs must be shaded to avoid casting bright light upon residential property, public streets, or parks
• Signs must not be illuminated in an obtrusive manner or create a nuisance
• Flashing or moving signs are prohibited unless specifically allowed elsewhere in the code
• Rotating beams, beacons, strobes, or similar illumination devices are not permitted

Technical Specifications for Sign Lighting

The village has established specific technical requirements for sign illumination:

• Metal illuminated signs must maintain a 9-foot clearance to grade
• Non-metal frame signs with accessory lighting fixtures also require 9-foot ground clearance
• Exception: Metal signs properly grounded with GFCI protection may not require the 9-foot clearance
• Wall signs may use gaseous-type illumination or interior lighting with intensity that prevents excessive glare
• Illuminated wall signs must have shielded silhouette lighting or shielded spot lighting
• Light sources must not be visible or exposed on the face or sides of sign characters

Digital and Message Board Regulations

For electronic message boards, the code specifies that they:

• Must not function as flashing signs
• Cannot display video or graphic animation
• Must not utilize chasing, scintillating, or high-intensity lighting

Special Regulations by Location

In certain areas, additional restrictions apply:

• Businesses operating under special use permits in residential districts are prohibited from having any illuminated signage
• Portable signs may not have flashing lights but can be backlit

General Property Lighting

Residential Considerations

North Pekin places high value on maintaining the quality of life in residential areas:

• All lighting shall be shielded from adjacent residential districts and from abutting streets
• This requirement appears multiple times in the code, emphasizing its importance
• The regulations aim to prevent light trespass into neighboring properties

Prohibited Lighting Types

The village explicitly prohibits certain types of lighting:

• It is unlawful to maintain or operate any flashing or rotating beacon of light in view of any street or highway
• Such unauthorized devices are declared a nuisance and may be removed by police

Development and Subdivision Requirements

Streetlight Standards

For new developments, North Pekin requires appropriate lighting infrastructure:

• No subdivision will be accepted unless the developer provides proper streetlights
• Streetlights must be installed in a minimum number and location for proper lighting
• Placement and specifications must receive approval from the village engineer
• Developers must pay for the estimated electricity and maintenance costs for a minimum of three tax years in advance

Site Planning Requirements

When submitting site plans for new projects, developers must include:

• Details on the type, height, and intensity of external illumination
• Information about the size, design, placement, and illumination of any signs visible from outside the development

Supporting North Pekin's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares North Pekin's commitment to balancing safety, functionality, and community character. We understand the unique challenges faced by small villages like North Pekin that want to maintain their residential atmosphere while ensuring proper illumination for safety.

Our experience with communities throughout the Midwest gives us insight into how lighting can enhance residential areas without creating nuisance or light pollution. Bock Lighting appreciates North Pekin's thoughtful approach to regulating illumination to preserve its distinctive character.

As lighting technology continues to evolve, we remain dedicated to helping communities like North Pekin navigate changing standards while respecting local regulations. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a resource for property owners seeking to create appropriate lighting solutions that comply with local codes.

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Essentials

For North Pekin property owners, understanding these lighting regulations is important for several reasons:

• Code Enforcement: Violations of lighting regulations could result in enforcement actions
• Good Neighborliness: Compliant lighting respects adjacent properties and maintains community harmony
• Safety Considerations: Proper lighting enhances safety while avoiding hazardous conditions

Electrical Compliance

The village requires all electrical work to conform to the 1968 National Electrical Code, as amended. This includes:

• All electric wiring and installations
• Electrical fixtures and apparatus
• Lighting and other electrical applications

Planning for New Projects

When planning new construction or renovations:

• Consider lighting requirements early in the design process
• Include detailed lighting information in site plans
• Ensure proper shielding for all exterior lighting
• Pay special attention to regulations if your property borders residential areas

Conclusion

North Pekin's lighting regulations reflect its identity as a residential community that values safety, aesthetics, and consideration for neighbors. The village has established clear guidelines that prevent nuisance lighting while ensuring adequate illumination for public safety.

Property owners and businesses should familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure compliance and contribute to the village's community-focused atmosphere. By following these regulations, residents help preserve North Pekin's character as a desirable place to live and work.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property, contacting the North Pekin village officials is recommended, as they can provide guidance tailored to your particular situation.