Lighting Regulations in Solon, Ohio: Balancing Community Growth and Safety Standards

Introduction

Founded in 1820 by Connecticut settlers, Solon, Ohio has transformed from challenging swampy terrain to a thriving city that officially incorporated in 1960. Under Mayor Edwin Carter's leadership, the city embraced strategic zoning and industrial development, setting aside 2,200 acres for industry while maintaining high-quality services for residents.

This balance between growth and community values is reflected in Solon's approach to various regulations, including those governing lighting. As the city evolved from its historical roots to a diverse modern community with significant residential and commercial development, lighting regulations have emerged as an important tool for maintaining safety, functionality, and community character.

Quick Reference Guide to Solon's Lighting Requirements

• Street Lighting (Residential/Industrial Developments): Required in subdivisions with more than 10 lots
• Construction Safety: Warning lights required at night for excavations and construction
• Minimum Illumination (Specialized Businesses): 5 foot-candles at floor level
• Electrical Service (Residential Rentals): Minimum 100-ampere, three-wire, 120/240 volt service
• Exterior Monitoring: Video monitoring with adequate lighting required for certain businesses

Street Lighting Requirements for Developers

Mandatory Installation

In Solon, developers must install street lighting equipment, fixtures, and facilities in residential and industrial subdivisions consisting of more than ten lots that involve street improvements to be dedicated to the city.

Planning and Approval Process

Before installation, developers must submit their street lighting plans to the City Engineer for approval. This ensures all lighting meets the city's standards and integrates properly with existing infrastructure.

Technical Standards

Street lighting must conform to either:

• The existing standards for roadway lighting of the Illuminating Engineering Society, OR
• Standards recommended by the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company

The City Engineer does not have authority to vary these standards without proper review.

Variance Procedures

In specific cases, the Planning Commission may grant variations to street lighting standards. This requires:

• Formal application
• Payment of fees pursuant to Chapter 1295
• Review by City Council pursuant to Chapter 1291
• Consideration of the subdivision's requirements for adequate street lighting

Safety Lighting for Construction and Excavation

Protection Requirements

Property owners and contractors must ensure that any excavation, well, cesspool, or structure under construction is adequately protected with:

• Suitable barricades
• Warning lights at night to prevent dangerous conditions

Maintenance Responsibilities

Important: It is illegal to destroy, remove, damage, or extinguish any barricade or warning light placed for public protection. These safety measures are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining site security after hours.

Specialized Commercial Lighting Requirements

Indoor Illumination Standards

Certain specialized businesses in Solon must maintain specific lighting levels:

• Minimum illumination level: 5 foot-candles measured at floor level
• All areas accessible to patrons must be illuminated, including restrooms
• Illumination must be maintained whenever patrons are present
• In case of power failure, the premises must be cleared and closed until minimum illumination can be restored

Exterior Lighting and Monitoring

For specific business types, exterior premises must have:

• Adequate lighting to facilitate visual inspection or video monitoring
• Video monitoring systems that operate continuously during business hours
• Sufficient illumination to prevent loitering

Documentation Requirements

Business license applications must include:

• Diagrams showing the location of all overhead lighting fixtures
• Details of monitoring systems where required

Residential Rental Lighting Requirements

Electrical Service Standards

Every residential rental unit must have:

• Approved electrical service, outlets, and fixtures
• Installation and maintenance that prevents potential ignition sources
• A three-wire, 120/240 volt, single-phase electrical service
• A minimum service rating of 100 amperes

Safety and Maintenance

When electrical components are damaged:

• Insufficient lighting outlets require correction to eliminate hazards
• Fixtures exposed to fire or water must be replaced according to the Residential Code of Ohio or Ohio Building Code
• Exceptions may be granted for repairs if an inspection report from the manufacturer indicates replacement is unnecessary

What Property Owners Should Know

Residential Development Impact

If you're developing a residential subdivision with more than ten lots in Solon, you'll need to factor street lighting installation into your development costs and planning process.

Construction Site Management

Property owners undertaking construction or excavation must maintain proper warning lights at night. Failure to do so could create liability issues if accidents occur due to inadequate safety measures.

Rental Property Compliance

Owners of rental properties need to ensure lighting systems meet minimum electrical service requirements and are properly maintained. Regular inspections can help prevent code violations and safety hazards.

Supporting Solon's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the unique balance Solon strives to maintain between industrial growth and community character.

Bock Lighting shares Solon's commitment to quality infrastructure and safety standards while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs enables us to serve as a resource for property owners, developers, and businesses seeking to comply with local regulations.

Our expertise in street lighting, safety illumination, and commercial lighting solutions aligns with Solon's vision for responsible development that serves both industrial and residential needs. We're committed to helping maintain the character that makes Solon one of Northeast Ohio's most desirable communities.

Conclusion

Solon's lighting regulations reflect its journey from rural settlement to thriving city. By establishing clear standards for street lighting in new developments and safety lighting for construction sites, the city maintains infrastructure quality while promoting safety.

The regulations demonstrate Solon's pragmatic approach to development—establishing necessary standards while allowing flexibility through variance procedures when appropriate. This balanced approach has helped Solon maintain its reputation as a well-planned community that successfully integrates industrial, commercial, and residential elements.

Understanding and following these lighting regulations helps property owners contribute to the community vision that has made Solon a desirable place to live and work for over 200 years.