Lighting Regulations in Plymouth Township, Michigan: A Guide to Street and Property Lighting Requirements

Introduction

Plymouth Township, Michigan, with its rich history dating back to 1825, has developed a set of lighting regulations that reflect its balanced approach to growth and preservation. First settled in 1825 and later incorporated as a village in 1867, Plymouth Township became a city in 1932, carrying forward its historical connections to Plymouth, Massachusetts.

The township's historical landmarks, including the 1871 Plymouth Railroad Station, speak to its heritage as a transportation hub. Today, Plymouth Township continues to value this historical character while embracing modern development needs, including appropriate lighting standards.

Quick Reference Guide: Plymouth Township Lighting Requirements

• Licensed premises: Must not be lighted in ways that distract or annoy passing motorists
• Trees and streetlights: Trees must be pruned to avoid obstructing streetlights
• Tree placement: No trees allowed within 10 feet of any streetlight pole
• Business licensing: Junk yards and used car lots must specify nighttime lighting in applications
• Subdivisions: Street lighting may be required at intersections
• Utilities: Easements for street lighting service must be provided by property owners

Street Lighting Requirements

Authority and Responsibility

The township superintendent has charge of the "construction, repair, maintenance, lighting and cleaning of streets" and public property when these duties are delegated by the township board. This centralized authority ensures consistent lighting standards throughout the township.

Subdivision Street Lighting Standards

Plymouth Township has specific requirements for lighting in new residential developments:

• Street lighting service must use underground conductors throughout residential subdivisions
• Installation must conform to:
• Engineering standards and construction practices prescribed by the utility
• State Public Service Commission requirements
• Street lights may be required specifically at intersections throughout subdivisions
• Developers must follow requirements set by both the township and the public utility providing lighting

Tree Management Near Street Lights

Proper maintenance of trees near street lighting is essential for effective illumination:

• Trees must be pruned regularly to prevent branches from obstructing light from streetlights
• Trees must also be pruned to maintain clear views of street intersections
• No trees may be planted closer than ten feet from any streetlight pole

Business Property Lighting Requirements

General Business Lighting

Applications for business licenses must include comprehensive plans showing:

• Adequate lighting for the premises
• Plans demonstrating how lighting will be implemented
• How lighting integrates with other site elements like parking and screening

The township board may determine if premises have or will soon have "adequate lighting" as part of the licensing process.

Special Business Types

Junk Yards

License applications must specifically detail "lighting to be employed at night" to ensure proper security and minimal impact on surrounding properties.

Used Car Lots

When applying for a used car lot license, applications must include detailed information about:

• The lighting to be employed at night
• How lighting relates to the size of the lot
• Integration with signs and structures
• Hours of operation in a 24-hour period

Licensed Premises Restrictions

All licensed premises in Plymouth Township must adhere to this important requirement:

"No licensed premises may be lighted so as to distract or annoy passing motorists."

This regulation helps maintain traffic safety while allowing businesses to have adequate lighting for security and operations.

Development Requirements and Easements

Utility Coordination

Property developers must coordinate closely with utility companies regarding lighting:

• Proprietors must provide easements acceptable to utilities for street lighting service
• Plat proprietors must furnish plans for electric lighting with engineering drawings
• Side lot easements (3 feet wide) must be granted for street lighting dropouts
• Underground lines for street lighting systems require approved easements

Special Agreements for Street Lights

When the Township Board requires street lights in a development:

• A special agreement must be entered into between the proprietor and the Board
• This ensures proper installation, maintenance, and operation of street lighting

Financial Guarantees

The Township has specific policies regarding financial guarantees for lighting installations:

• The Commission may recommend waiving financial guarantees for street lights
• If specified, completion of street light installation may be required prior to the issuance of occupancy permits
• When bonds are required, they must cover the total estimated cost for completing construction of the lighting system

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When developing property or operating a business in Plymouth Township, consider these key points:

• Consult with the township early in your planning process to understand specific lighting requirements for your property type
• Coordinate with utility providers regarding easements for street lighting
• Ensure trees on your property don't obstruct streetlights
• For businesses, ensure your lighting enhances safety without creating distractions for motorists

Exceptions Process

The Township Board may grant exception permits for work that might affect neighboring properties through light impact. The Board considers:

• The location and nature of the work
• Hours and dates of permitted work
• Relationship to surrounding land uses
• Potential effects on neighboring property

Supporting Plymouth Township's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Plymouth Township's careful balance of development with historic preservation. Our roots as a Northeast Ohio manufacturer dating back to 1918 give us a unique perspective on communities like Plymouth Township that value their heritage while embracing thoughtful growth.

We recognize Plymouth Township's commitment to environmental stewardship, as evidenced by initiatives like the Environmental Leadership Commission established in 2019. This aligns with our own dedication to sustainable lighting solutions that respect community character and local regulations.

As a regional lighting resource, we understand the architectural styles and community needs specific to this area. Our experience with projects that preserve community character while meeting modern lighting standards positions us to help property owners navigate Plymouth Township's lighting requirements.

Conclusion

Plymouth Township's lighting regulations reflect its balanced approach to growth and preservation. While not extensively detailed in technical specifications, the township's requirements focus on ensuring appropriate street lighting in developments, preventing light distraction for motorists, and requiring businesses to plan their lighting appropriately.

Property owners and developers should consult directly with township officials during planning stages to ensure compliance with current lighting standards. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Plymouth Township's character as a community that honors its history while embracing thoughtful development.

Remember that regulations may be updated over time, so it's always advisable to check with township officials for the most current requirements before undertaking significant lighting projects.