Lighting Regulations in Putnam County, Indiana: Balancing Heritage with Modern Needs

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, Putnam County carries a rich historical legacy dating back to its establishment in 1822. Named after Revolutionary War hero General Israel Putnam, this county has carefully preserved its historical character while adapting to modern development needs. From the early railroads of 1852 to the historical buildings in Putnamville laid out by James Townsend in 1830, Putnam County values its architectural heritage.

This commitment to preserving historical character while meeting contemporary needs is reflected in the county's approach to lighting regulations. Though relatively limited in scope, these regulations aim to maintain community aesthetics while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide to Putnam County Lighting Regulations

For property owners and developers seeking to understand lighting requirements, here are the key regulations currently in place:

• Park Lighting: Exterior park lights must be shielded to prevent illumination exceeding .01 footcandle beyond park boundaries
• Temporary Structures: Must direct outdoor lighting away from adjoining residential areas
• Residential Subdivisions: Major subdivisions must include lighting as part of entrance features
• Tower Lighting: Towers shall not be illuminated unless specifically required by the FAA or other authority
• Site Plans: Must include the location of all project lighting
• Screening: Woodlands can be used to screen lighting from adjacent residential areas
• Accessibility: Light switches and controls must be located in accessible positions

Understanding Putnam County's Approach to Lighting

Historical Preservation Influences

Putnam County's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to preserving its historical districts and landmarks. With roots going back to the early 19th century, including the establishment of Greencastle as the county seat and historical sites like the Townsend Inn (Whitehall Inn), the county balances modern needs with historical preservation.

Limited but Focused Regulations

While Putnam County doesn't maintain extensive lighting codes compared to some municipalities, the regulations in place focus on key concerns:

• Preventing Light Trespass: Particularly for parks and temporary structures
• Maintaining Community Character: Through requirements for subdivision entrances
• Balancing Utility and Aesthetics: Through screening requirements

Park Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Illumination Limits

One of the most specific lighting regulations in Putnam County pertains to parks:

• All exterior park lights must be located and shielded to prevent direct illumination of areas outside the park
• Illumination beyond park boundaries must not exceed .01 footcandle

Purpose and Implementation

This regulation helps ensure parks remain good neighbors to surrounding residential areas. The low footcandle threshold demonstrates the county's commitment to minimizing light pollution while maintaining safety within park boundaries.

Residential and Development Requirements

Major Subdivision Entrances

For developers working on major residential subdivisions, entrance features must include:

• Landscaping
• Walls
• Signs
• Lighting
• Similar aesthetic elements

Screening Requirements

The county code specifically notes that:

• Woodlands can be used to screen lighting from adjacent residential areas
• This approach aligns with the county's balanced approach to development and preservation

Site Plan Requirements

When submitting site plans, developers must include:

• The location of all lighting for the project
• This ensures lighting is considered holistically within development planning

Temporary Structures and Special Cases

Temporary Lighting Controls

For temporary structures and uses, lighting must be:

• Directed away from adjoining residential areas
• Positioned to minimize impact on neighboring properties

Tower Illumination Restrictions

The county code is clear regarding towers:

• Towers shall not be illuminated by artificial means
• Towers shall not display strobe lights
• Exception: Only when specifically required by the Federal Aviation Administration or other federal/state authority

What Property Owners Should Know

Permitted Residential Features

Property owners will be pleased to know the code specifically permits:

• Lamp posts on residential properties
• This allows for decorative and functional lighting options that enhance home aesthetics

Accessibility Requirements

For all dwellings, lighting controls must feature:

• Light switches in accessible locations
• Electrical outlets in accessible locations
• Thermostats and environmental controls in accessible locations

Documentation Requirements

When undertaking projects requiring approval:

• Be prepared to document the exact location of all lighting fixtures
• Consider how lighting might impact neighboring properties

Supporting Putnam County's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the unique balance Putnam County maintains between preserving its historical character and meeting contemporary needs. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Putnam County's appreciation for historical architecture and community character.

Our familiarity with the architectural styles common throughout the Midwest enables us to provide lighting solutions that complement Putnam County's historical districts. While lighting regulations in the county are limited in scope, we recognize the importance of the existing requirements for preventing light trespass and maintaining community aesthetics.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource, helping property owners understand how lighting choices impact both regulatory compliance and historical preservation. We appreciate Putnam County's emphasis on screening lighting appropriately and minimizing impact on residential areas.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Putnam County's balanced approach to development and preservation, ensuring lighting solutions that serve the community's needs while respecting its historical legacy.

Conclusion

While Putnam County's lighting regulations are not as extensive as those in some other jurisdictions, they reflect the county's priorities: balancing growth with preservation, protecting residential areas from light trespass, and maintaining community character through thoughtful development requirements.

Property owners and developers should focus particularly on:

• Preventing light trespass, especially near parks and residential areas
• Including appropriate lighting in major subdivision entrances
• Documenting lighting locations in site plans
• Ensuring accessibility of lighting controls

By understanding and following these regulations, community members contribute to Putnam County's continued success in honoring its historical legacy while meeting contemporary needs.