Lighting Regulations in Norton, Ohio: Balancing Heritage with Modern Illumination

Introduction

Norton, Ohio, with its rich historical background dating back to early explorations in the Western Reserve area, has evolved while maintaining its distinct character. From the historical Loyal Oak House of the 1840s to the community-centered Cider Festival that began in 1989, Norton demonstrates a commitment to preserving its heritage while adapting to contemporary needs.

This balance between tradition and progress is reflected in the city's approach to lighting regulations. As Norton continues to develop, these regulations help ensure that illumination serves the community's needs while respecting both historical integrity and modern safety requirements.

Quick Reference Guide to Norton's Lighting Requirements

Key lighting regulations that property owners should know:

• Outdoor Lighting Heights: Maximum 25 feet for driveways/parking areas, 12 feet for pedestrian walkways
• Property Line Illumination: Maximum 0.5 foot-candles at property lines
• Light Trespass Control: All lighting should be shielded (0 foot-candles at adjacent lots)
• Commercial Parking Areas: Minimum 5 foot-candles required for late night retail/gas station parking
• Lighting Plans: Required for new developments, including location plans and lighting intensity data
• Residential Restrictions: Home occupations cannot cause lighting in excess of normal residential lighting
• Sign Illumination: Permitted in business districts but regulated for brightness and color
• Maintenance Responsibility: 10% guarantee required for subdivision street lighting systems

Street Lighting Administration

Historical Management Structure

Norton's approach to street lighting has been formalized through several ordinances granting franchises to the Ohio Edison Company. These franchises, dating back to the 1960s and 1970s, established the framework for lighting streets and public places throughout the city.

Current Administration

The city maintains a dedicated Street Lighting Fund as part of its special revenue fund structure. This financial designation highlights the importance Norton places on maintaining appropriate illumination in public spaces.

Tree Management for Light Distribution

The city has established clear authority to maintain proper street lighting by addressing obstructions:

• The City has the right to trim or remove any vegetation on private property when it interferes with street light distribution
• Property owners are also responsible for removing or trimming vegetation that blocks light from street lights

This approach ensures effective illumination while maintaining the tree-lined character that contributes to Norton's charm.

Commercial Property Lighting Requirements

Late Night Establishment Standards

Safety is paramount for businesses operating after dark:

• The entire customer parking area for late night retail establishments and gas stations must be illuminated
• A minimum of 5 foot-candles per square foot is required in these areas
• This illumination must be maintained whenever the business is in operation

Commercial Districts Design Guidelines

Norton's commercial lighting regulations aim to balance visibility with aesthetics:

• Height restrictions: Maximum 25 feet for driveways/parking areas, 12 feet for pedestrian areas
• Illumination limits: Maximum 0.5 foot-candles at property lines
• Shielding requirements: All lighting must be contained to the specific lot (0 foot-candles at adjacent properties)
• Glare prevention: No outdoor lighting can cause glare or impair driver/pedestrian vision

Special Use Requirements

Skill-based amusement arcades must provide exterior lighting of sufficient intensity to illuminate all means of ingress/egress and adjacent parking areas.

Sign Illumination Regulations

District-Based Permissions

Norton takes a zoned approach to sign lighting:

• Signs in Residential Districts generally cannot be illuminated (with limited exceptions)
• Signs in Business and Industrial Districts may be illuminated (with specific requirements)

Technical Requirements for Illuminated Signs

When signs are permitted to be illuminated, they must comply with:

• National Electric Code requirements
• Underground electrical wiring installation (or within the structure supporting the sign)
• Restrictions on excessive brightness
• Shielding to prevent direct light or glare into residential areas or toward vehicles
• Prohibition on flashing, moving, or intermittent illumination
• Restrictions on red/green colors that could interfere with traffic signals

Special Considerations for Electrical Signs

• Must bear the label of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. (for new installations)
• Historical signs without labels may be re-erected if they meet inspection requirements
• Installation of conductors and equipment must comply with Chapter 1432 standards

Residential and Special Use Lighting

Home Occupation Restrictions

Norton carefully regulates lighting for home-based businesses:

• No home occupation shall cause lighting in excess of normal residential lighting
• This prevents commercial-level illumination from disrupting neighborhood character

Flagpole Illumination

The city allows for patriotic displays while maintaining standards:

• Underground lighting for flagpoles is permitted
• Must be installed within a reasonable distance to the flagpole
• Must meet all Underwriters' requirements for installation

Construction Site Requirements

Safety and access are priorities during building projects:

• Adequately lighted walkways (minimum 44 inches wide) must be maintained for public use when construction materials are stored in a street
• Building materials and temporary structures must not obstruct or interfere with street lights

Development and Subdivision Requirements

Planning and Approval Process

New developments must address lighting through formal planning:

• A comprehensive lighting plan is required, including location plans, specifications, and lighting intensity data
• Plans must address lighting for public rights-of-way, walkways, and other public areas

Infrastructure Requirements

Developers must provide and properly guarantee lighting infrastructure:

• Street lighting systems must be installed at intersections and along public/private streets
• A maintenance guarantee (10% of improvement value) must be provided to the city
• This guarantee ensures proper maintenance and potential restoration of lighting systems

Technical Standards for Street Lighting

• All luminaire mast arms must match the length, arch, and style of the original luminaire arm (unless otherwise specified)
• Installation must comply with Ohio Edison standards

Special Considerations

Oil Well Operations

Norton's regulations restrict lighting impacts from drilling operations:

• No lighting during drilling or on a producing well shall constitute a nuisance to surrounding properties

Tower Lighting

The city balances safety requirements with minimal light pollution:

• Towers under 150 feet shall not be artificially lighted (except for safety or FAA requirements)
• Towers between 150-200 feet must follow FAA safety marking and obstruction lighting standards
• Security lighting is permitted around equipment shelters

Supporting Norton's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the importance of balancing modern illumination needs with the preservation of community character. As Norton continues to honor its historical heritage while embracing necessary development, lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining this equilibrium.

Our team appreciates Norton's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that protect neighborhood aesthetics while ensuring safety and functionality. With decades of experience working with communities throughout the region, we understand the unique architectural styles and lighting needs that define Norton's character.

We're committed to serving as an educational resource for property owners, developers, and municipal officials navigating lighting regulations. Our expertise in sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Norton's vision for managed growth that respects community values and historical integrity.

Permit and Fee Information

The city maintains a structured fee schedule for lighting installations:

• Temporary lighting: $50.00
• Parking lot & exterior lighting: $50.00 + $0.25 per building attached fixture + $2.00 per individual sign or pole
• Contractors performing lighting/fixture installation for new homes must register with the city

Conclusion

Norton's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to maintaining its historical character while addressing modern safety and aesthetic needs. From street lighting to commercial properties and residential considerations, these guidelines help ensure that illumination enhances the community without causing disruption.

Property owners should consult with the city's Building Department before undertaking significant lighting projects to ensure compliance with current standards. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to Norton's vision of a well-lit community that honors its past while looking toward the future.