Lighting Regulations in Rockville, Indiana: Preserving Historical Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

In the heart of Parke County, the charming town of Rockville stands as a testament to Indiana's rich historical heritage. Founded in 1824 by Andrew Ray, Rockville boasts a Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing a variety of preserved architectural styles that tell the story of this quintessential Midwest town.

The town's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to maintaining its historical character while addressing modern needs. These regulations help ensure that lighting throughout Rockville complements its unique aesthetic and preserves the charm that makes this community special.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements in Rockville:

• Fixed charge of $8 per lamp per month for security lighting service
• Solar lights permitted on shepherd hooks or similar iron decorations (one per decoration)
• No glare visible from any street or residential area
• Illuminated signs permitted with restrictions on flashing/intermittent lighting
• Outdoor artificial lighting requires Commission approval
• Lamp posts allowed as accessory uses in front, side, or rear yards

General Lighting Regulations

Glare Control

One of the most straightforward requirements in Rockville's lighting code is the prohibition on light pollution: No glare shall be seen from any street or any residential area.

This simple yet effective regulation helps maintain the town's peaceful ambiance while preventing light trespass that could impact neighbors or distract drivers.

Outdoor Lighting Approval Process

Rockville takes a careful approach to outdoor lighting installations. The regulations clearly state that:

• Outdoor artificial lighting shall be approved by the Commission

This oversight ensures that new lighting installations align with the town's aesthetic goals and historical character, providing a consistent approach to illumination throughout the community.

Permitted Lighting Features

The code specifically mentions lamp posts as permitted accessory uses:

• Lamp posts are allowed in any required front, side, or rear yard
• They fall under the same category as other accessory features like utility installations, walks, and mailboxes

This provision allows property owners the flexibility to enhance their landscapes with appropriate lighting fixtures that complement their homes and the surrounding neighborhood.

Signage Illumination Requirements

Illumination Restrictions

Rockville's regulations provide clear guidance on sign illumination:

• Signs may be illuminated, but flashing, intermittent, or animated illumination is generally prohibited
• Exceptions exist in LB and GB Districts with street lighting and traffic regulated at 40mph or less
• No illuminated signs within 100 feet of residential district property unless designed to prevent light from shining onto such property

Traffic Safety Considerations

Sign illumination must not interfere with roadway safety:

• No sign shall be erected where its illumination, size, shape, or color might:
• Obstruct or impair the view of traffic control devices
• Be confused with authorized traffic control signs or signals
• Create hazards for motorists or pedestrians

These requirements balance the need for visible business signage with public safety and neighborhood tranquility.

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Construction Site Lighting

For construction areas, especially those affecting roadways, specific lighting is required:

• Adequate lighting must disclose the existence of construction in streets (day and night)
• During nighttime, blinking lights must be placed:
• At least one at the end of each work area
• Additional lights spaced at intervals appropriate for traffic speed in and around the construction area

Warning Lights Specifications

The code provides detailed specifications for warning lights:

• Must be used from sunset to sunrise to indicate hazards
• May include flares, torches, lanterns, or electrical markers/flashers
• Torches must be open wick or flame flares/bombs using kerosene or similar fluid
• Lanterns must burn kerosene or similar fluid with clear red or ruby globes
• Electrical markers must emit light at sufficient intensity and frequency to be visible at reasonable distance
• Reflectors may supplement but not replace light sources

Important note: The Town Council may restrict lanterns or open flame devices in fire hazard areas.

Festival and Event Lighting

Rockville's regulations include specific provisions for festival lighting, particularly for events on the courthouse lawn:

• $35 lighting cost for booths/shacks during festivals sponsored by Parke County, Inc.
• $60 non-refundable electrical connection fee
• $25 refundable meter deposit for every booth/shack on the courthouse lawn

These fees ensure proper management of temporary lighting installations during the town's popular community events.

Solar Lighting Provisions

In keeping with modern sustainability trends, Rockville's regulations specifically address solar lighting:

• Solar lights are permitted on shepherd hooks or similar iron decorations
• Limited to one solar light per decorative element

This allowance provides property owners with energy-efficient lighting options while maintaining aesthetic controls.

Supporting Rockville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, understands the importance of preserving historical character through thoughtful illumination. We share Rockville's commitment to maintaining architectural heritage while incorporating appropriate modern lighting solutions.

Our experience with historic communities throughout the Midwest gives us a deep appreciation for Rockville's balance of safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation. We recognize that in towns with such rich historical significance, lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining community character after dark.

As lighting professionals, we value the educational role we can play in helping communities understand and implement lighting regulations that support their preservation goals. Our expertise in regional architectural styles allows us to recommend lighting solutions that complement the unique character of towns like Rockville.

We believe that understanding local regulations is essential for any lighting project's success, and we're committed to being a resource for communities seeking to maintain their distinctive character through thoughtful illumination strategies.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Considerations for Compliance

When planning lighting for your Rockville property, keep these key points in mind:

• Commission approval is required for outdoor artificial lighting
• Ensure any lighting installations prevent glare from being visible from streets or residential areas
• When installing decorative elements, remember solar lights are permitted (one per shepherd hook or similar decoration)
• Sign illumination must be designed to prevent light from spilling onto residential properties if within 100 feet

Planning for New Installations

Before installing new exterior lighting:

• Check with local authorities regarding approval requirements
• Consider the historical character of your neighborhood and surrounding properties
• Plan lighting that provides necessary illumination while minimizing potential glare
• Remember that lamp posts are specifically permitted as accessory uses in yards

Conclusion

Rockville's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical character while meeting modern safety and utility needs. By controlling glare, requiring approval for outdoor lighting, and setting clear parameters for illuminated signs, these regulations help maintain the town's distinctive charm.

For property owners, understanding these requirements is essential when planning lighting improvements. By following these guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to Rockville's continued efforts to balance growth with preservation of its rich architectural heritage.

Through thoughtful lighting choices that respect both regulations and community character, Rockville will continue to shine as one of Indiana's most charming historic towns—both day and night.