Lighting Regulations in Perrysburg, Ohio: A Guide to Illuminating Historic Charm While Meeting Code Requirements

Introduction

Nestled along the picturesque Maumee River, Perrysburg, Ohio boasts a rich architectural heritage spanning over 175 years. Founded in 1816 and named after War of 1812 hero Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, this charming city has evolved from a planned commercial hub to a thriving community that carefully balances growth with historical preservation.

Perrysburg's lighting regulations reflect this commitment to maintaining its distinctive small-town ambiance while supporting modern development needs. With diverse architectural styles influenced by New England settlers, the city has implemented thoughtful lighting standards that enhance safety while preserving the historical character that makes Perrysburg special.

Quick Reference Guide to Perrysburg Lighting Regulations

Before diving into the details, here's a snapshot of the most critical lighting requirements in Perrysburg:

• General Light Output: Limited to 1,400 lumens in any district (except flood/spotlights)
• Height Restrictions: Range from 15 feet in residential areas to 35 feet in industrial zones
• Light Trespass: Maximum 1 foot-candle within 2 feet of buildings in residential districts
• Commercial Properties: Must shield lighting from adjacent residential areas
• Security Lighting: Motion-activated only, with 10-minute maximum duration
• Prohibited Features: Flashing, twinkling, or intermittent lights generally forbidden
• Street Lighting: Required at all intersections, curves, cul-de-sacs, and eyebrows

Residential Lighting Requirements

Height and Placement Regulations

In Perrysburg's residential neighborhoods, lighting fixtures must adhere to strict height limitations to maintain the intimate scale of these historic areas:

• Maximum Height: 15 feet in R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and RM districts
• Placement: Structures supporting lighting fixtures may be permitted in yards where off-street parking is allowed
• Setbacks: When adjacent to residential districts, the distance between light structures and property lines must equal or exceed the height of the light source

Light Output and Direction

Perrysburg carefully regulates light intensity and direction in residential areas to minimize disturbances:

• Standard Fixtures: Light sources rated at 1,400 lumens or less are permitted in all districts
• Directional Lighting: Must be arranged to reflect light away from adjacent properties
• Flood/Spotlights: Limited to 1,000 lumens and must not be aimed toward residential areas or streets
• Down-Lighting: Required for fixtures exceeding 1,000 lumens to reduce glare

Light Trespass Prevention

The code specifically addresses light spillover concerns:

• Maximum Impact: Exterior lighting cannot cause luminance greater than one foot-candle within two feet of any main building in adjacent residential districts
• Tree Maintenance: Property owners are responsible for pruning trees that obstruct street lights

Commercial and Industrial Lighting Standards

Height Allowances by District

Commercial and industrial areas have different height allowances reflecting their functional needs:

• C-1, C-2 Districts: Maximum 20 feet
• C-3, C-4, OS Districts: Maximum 30 feet
• I-1, I-2, PBP, POS, UVO, INS Districts: Maximum 35 feet

Business-Specific Requirements

Different business types have specialized lighting requirements:

• Auto Sales/Service: All lighting must be shielded from residential districts; string lights prohibited
• Service Stations: Under-canopy lighting must be flush-mounted and not distractive to traffic
• Restaurants: All lighting must be shielded from adjacent residential districts
• Self-Service Storage: No exterior lighting may shine beyond property lines
• Schools: Athletic field lighting must be shielded from residential areas
• Transportation/Trucking: Outdoor lighting must be shielded from abutting properties and streets; maximum height of 30 feet

Commercial Signage Lighting

The code addresses how businesses can illuminate their signage:

• Constant Illumination Only: Lighting must be of constant intensity
• No Flashing Elements: Flashing, twinkling, blinking, or traveling lights prohibited
• Digital Signs: Static images cannot change more frequently than once every 7 seconds
• Material Restrictions: Fluorescent lighting prohibited in signage
• Positioning: Must not cause direct glare onto other properties

Street Lighting Requirements

Placement Standards

Perrysburg requires strategic placement of street lighting throughout the city:

• Mandatory Locations: Street lights required at all intersections, curves of 125 feet or shorter centerline radius, cul-de-sacs, and eyebrows
• Additional Lighting: Extra street lights may be approved by City Council for arterial, collector, and marginal access streets
• Subdivision Requirements: All subdivisions must include street lighting
• Planning Responsibility: City prepares street lighting plans for residential subdivisions (developer bears costs)

Infrastructure and Maintenance

The code addresses infrastructure considerations for street lighting:

• Underground Wiring: Required for subdivisions with more than five lots
• Easements: Several ordinances grant easements to Toledo Edison for street light installation
• Tree Maintenance: Property owners must prune vegetation that obstructs street lights

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Construction and Safety Lighting

Safety is a priority for temporary lighting during construction:

• Warning Lights: Required for construction sites, excavations, and other hazards
• Maintenance Responsibility: Those who damage warning lights must replace or relight them

Adult Establishments

Specific lighting standards apply to adult cabarets:

• Illumination Requirement: Sufficient lighting throughout public areas required
• Minimum Standard: Not less than 30 lux horizontal, measured at 30 inches from floor on 10-foot centers

Security Lighting

Security lighting has specific requirements:

• Motion Activation: Must be controlled by motion detectors
• Time Limitation: Cannot remain on longer than 10 minutes after activation
• Direction Control: Cannot be aimed toward residential districts or public streets

What Property Owners Should Know

Common Compliance Issues

When planning exterior lighting, be aware of these frequently overlooked requirements:

• Light Trespass: Ensure your lighting doesn't exceed one foot-candle at neighboring residential properties
• Fixture Height: Check your zoning district's maximum height restrictions before installation
• Security Lighting: Must be motion-activated with automatic shutoff after 10 minutes
• Shields and Direction: All lighting must be properly shielded and directed to prevent glare

Planning Your Lighting Project

Before installing new exterior lighting:

• Check Your Zoning: Different districts have different height and intensity requirements
• Consider Neighbors: Plan lighting to minimize impact on adjacent properties
• Understand Lumen Limits: General lighting is limited to 1,400 lumens; floodlights to 1,000 lumens
• Focus Downward: Down-lighting is required for fixtures exceeding 1,000 lumens

Supporting Perrysburg's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting shares Perrysburg's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing modern technology. We understand the unique challenges of balancing safety and functionality with aesthetic preservation in communities rich with architectural heritage.

Our experience with regional architectural styles helps us appreciate Perrysburg's diverse building traditions. From its New England-influenced historic district to modern development areas, Perrysburg's varied lighting needs require thoughtful solutions that respect the city's character.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. We're committed to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that align with Perrysburg's vision of maintaining its small-town ambiance while supporting economic growth.

Our local presence enables us to better understand community needs and standards, helping property owners find lighting solutions that enhance safety and beauty while complying with local regulations.

Conclusion

Perrysburg's lighting regulations thoughtfully balance modern needs with historic preservation. From the strategic placement of street lights to careful controls on light trespass, these standards help maintain the city's distinctive character while ensuring safety and functionality.

Property owners should pay particular attention to height restrictions, lumen limitations, and shielding requirements when planning lighting projects. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to Perrysburg's ongoing efforts to preserve its architectural heritage while embracing appropriate development.

These lighting standards reflect Perrysburg's commitment to maintaining its special character as a vibrant community with deep historical roots and a bright future ahead.