Lighting Regulations in Smithville, Ohio: Preserving Historic Charm while Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in Wayne County, Smithville, Ohio carries a rich historical legacy dating back to its founding in 1818 by Thomas Smith, a War of 1812 veteran. This charming village of approximately 1,200 residents takes great pride in preserving its historical character, as evidenced by the Pioneer Village that showcases buildings and artifacts from the 1830s to 1890s.

The village's commitment to maintaining its historical integrity naturally extends to how it approaches lighting regulations. While Smithville's lighting codes may not be as extensive as those of larger municipalities, they reflect the community's values of safety, functionality, and historic preservation.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's a snapshot of Smithville's key lighting regulations:

• Street Lighting: Required for all new subdivisions following village standards
• Illuminated Signs: Permitted but light sources must not be visible; no flashing/blinking lights allowed
• Glare Prevention: Classified as an "objectionable element" with specific measurement boundaries
• Tree Management: Property owners must trim trees that obstruct street light distribution
• Development Plans: Must include exterior lighting plans with fixture details and intensity levels
• Public Areas: Lighting of public places falls under Street Commissioner supervision

Street Lighting Requirements

New Development Standards

For developers planning new subdivisions in Smithville, street lighting installation is mandatory. The regulations specify that:

• Street lights must be installed on all streets within new subdivisions
• Lights must conform to standards established by the village for subdivision street lighting
• The number and location of such lights will be determined by the village
• Street light specifications must follow standards established by the Village Council

Documentation Requirements

When submitting plans for development, applicants must include:

• Detailed construction plans for street lights
• Plans must be prepared and certified by a registered professional engineer
• In development plan submissions, an exterior lighting plan showing:
• Location and height of all exterior fixtures (luminaires)
• Distribution and proposed intensity of lighting levels at finished grade
• Fixture catalog numbers and shop drawings

Public Oversight

The village code designates the Street Commissioner or engineer to supervise the lighting of all public places, ensuring proper implementation and maintenance of lighting in communal areas.

Managing Light Obstruction

Tree Trimming Requirements

Smithville has specific regulations addressing how vegetation may affect lighting effectiveness:

• It is unlawful to maintain trees or shrubbery that obstruct proper distribution of light from street lamps
• Property owners must ensure branches near street lights are trimmed to allow free passage of light to streets and sidewalks
• The Legislative Authority will provide written notice to property owners ordering them to trim trees obstructing light
• If property owners fail to comply, the village may trim the vegetation and charge the cost as a lien on the property

Safety Considerations

These regulations serve a dual purpose:

1. Ensuring adequate illumination for public safety
2. Maintaining visibility at intersections to prevent traffic hazards

Controlling Light Pollution and Glare

Glare Restrictions

Smithville classifies glare as an "objectionable element" that must be controlled:

• No land or building may be used in a manner that creates or allows glare beyond acceptable limits
• In residential ("R") and certain commercial districts ("C-1" and "C-2"), glare is measured 25 feet from the establishment
• In manufacturing ("M") and agricultural ("A-1") districts, glare is measured at district boundaries or within adjacent residential districts

Approval Process

The approval process includes checks for lighting compliance:

• The Zoning Inspector or Board of Zoning Appeals may require statements and plans showing how glare will be eliminated or reduced
• These must be submitted prior to issuance of a zoning certificate
• Development plans must include exterior lighting as part of site improvements

Sign Illumination Guidelines

Illumination Standards

For those interested in illuminated signage, Smithville's regulations state:

• Signs may be illuminated, provided the source of light is not visible
• No flashing or blinking lights are permitted on signs
• The source, design, and placement of illumination must not create a public or private nuisance
• Lighting must not interfere with vehicular traffic or neighborhood tranquility
• Development plans must include details on the type of illumination for all signs to be placed on the property

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Essentials

When planning lighting installations or modifications, Smithville property owners should:

1. Check with village officials before installing new exterior lighting
2. Include lighting details in any development plan submissions
3. Maintain trees and vegetation to prevent obstruction of street lights
4. Control glare to stay within acceptable limits
5. Ensure sign illumination complies with visibility and non-flashing requirements

Special Use Considerations

The village has specific provisions for certain facilities:

• Sports field lighting: There is a $50 per night fee for using lights at the baseball diamond (exceptions for youth programs)
• Tournament use: $75 per field per day includes lighting, with fees payable at Village Hall prior to events

Supporting Smithville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Smithville's commitment to preserving historic character while addressing modern lighting needs. As a regional manufacturer, we understand the unique charm of communities like Smithville and the importance of lighting that complements rather than detracts from historical aesthetics.

Our experience with projects throughout the region has taught us how proper lighting can enhance community safety while respecting architectural heritage. We appreciate Smithville's balanced approach to lighting regulations that protect the village's small-town atmosphere.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, offering expertise that helps maintain the character of historic areas. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Smithville's vision of preserving its distinctive 19th-century charm while meeting modern needs.

Through our local presence, we've developed a deep understanding of the lighting challenges faced by communities seeking to balance preservation with adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

Conclusion

Smithville's lighting regulations, though not extensive, reflect the village's commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. The focus on controlling glare, properly illuminating streets in new developments, and managing light obstruction demonstrates a thoughtful approach to lighting governance.

Property owners and developers should work closely with village officials when planning lighting installations to ensure compliance with these standards. By following these guidelines, community members contribute to preserving Smithville's unique historic charm and small-town atmosphere for future generations.

Understanding and respecting these lighting regulations helps maintain the special character that makes Smithville a treasured historic gem in Wayne County.