Lighting Regulations in South Jacksonville, Illinois: Balancing Heritage and Modern Needs

Introduction: Lighting in a Historic Community

South Jacksonville, Illinois carries a rich historical legacy as a village adjacent to Jacksonville, which was founded in 1825 and named after General Andrew Jackson. This Morgan County community, with its deep agricultural roots and commitment to historical preservation, has developed lighting regulations that reflect its values of maintaining traditional character while accommodating contemporary needs.

Home to the Prairie Land Heritage Museum, an open-air institution celebrating traditional farming and antique machinery, South Jacksonville demonstrates its appreciation for preserving connections to the past. This same philosophy extends to how the village approaches lighting regulations – balancing safety and functionality with respect for the community's historical ambiance.

Quick Reference Guide: South Jacksonville Lighting Requirements

• Light Trespass Prevention: Lighting must be arranged to prevent unnecessary illumination of neighboring properties
• Shielding Requirements: Flood and spotlights must be shielded to prevent glare
• Parking Area Illumination: Specific footcandle standards for different property types (residential, commercial/industrial)
• Height Restrictions: Lighting sources generally must be between 15-30 feet above grade
• Sign Illumination: Must concentrate light on sign area to prevent glare on streets or adjacent properties
• Flashing Signs: Generally prohibited except for time/temperature displays meeting specific requirements
• Construction Requirements: Lighting plans must be included as part of construction plans

General Lighting Requirements

Light Trespass Prevention

South Jacksonville places significant emphasis on preventing light trespass between properties. The village code specifically states that "lighting within any property that unnecessarily illuminates another property and interferes with the use and enjoyment of such other property is prohibited."

This regulation demonstrates the community's commitment to respecting property boundaries and maintaining the peaceful character of the village.

Shielding and Directional Requirements

The regulations require that lighting on private property be arranged or designed:

• Using cut-off lenses as necessary to direct light away from adjoining properties and streets
• With appropriate shielding for flood and spotlights to prevent glare
• To avoid visual interference with traffic control devices

Documentation Requirements

For certain projects, "detailed lighting design plans and calculations shall be provided when deemed necessary by the Enforcement Officer." This requirement ensures proper review of lighting installations that might have significant impact on surrounding areas.

Parking Lot Lighting Standards

The most detailed section of South Jacksonville's lighting regulations addresses parking area illumination. These standards represent the village's most comprehensive lighting requirements.

Applicability

Lighting is required in parking areas containing five or more parking spaces:

• Residential uses: Illumination required between dusk and dawn
• Nonresidential uses: Illumination required between dusk and dawn whenever premises are open for operation

Illumination Standards (in footcandles)

Minimum Initial Level at Any Point

• Residential use: 0.07
• Commercial/industrial use: 0.50
• Other uses: 0.30

Average Initial Level

• Residential use: 0.35
• Commercial/industrial use: 1.00
• Other uses: 0.50

Maximum Initial Level (5 feet from light standard base)

• Residential use: 3.00
• Commercial/industrial use: 8.00
• Other uses: 5.00

Height Requirements

For most lighting applications, the lighting source must be between 15 and 30 feet above grade, with exceptions made for low-level accent lighting.

Sign Illumination Requirements

General Sign Lighting Standards

The village regulates sign illumination to maintain aesthetic quality and prevent safety hazards:

• Internal and external sign illumination must concentrate light on the sign area
• Lighting must be designed to prevent glare upon streets or adjacent property

Flashing Signs

Flashing signs are generally prohibited in all zoning districts, with limited exceptions for:

• Illuminated signs showing time, temperature, or weather information
• Such signs must:
• Not exceed 16 square feet in total area
• Have vertical dimensions of letters/numbers not exceeding 24 inches
• Maintain constant color and light intensity (except when changing displayed information)

Special Use Lighting Considerations

Temporary and Construction Lighting

The village code includes specific provisions for temporary lighting situations:

• House movers must place at least one red light in front and one in rear of any building or obstruction in the street from sunset to sunrise
• Construction of light poles and similar structures requires appropriate permits

Golf Course Lighting

For golf courses with driving ranges, lighting installations are "subject to issuance of special use permit" according to specific sections of the village code.

Home Occupation Restrictions

For home-based businesses, the regulations state that "the appearance of the dwelling shall not be altered in a manner which would cause the premises to differ from its residential character" including through lighting.

Supporting South Jacksonville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation. Our experience working with communities like South Jacksonville has given us insight into how lighting can enhance community character while meeting safety and functionality requirements.

We share South Jacksonville's commitment to preserving historical character through thoughtful infrastructure development. Communities with rich historical contexts deserve lighting solutions that respect their unique heritage while providing the necessary illumination for safety and security.

As a regional manufacturer with deep appreciation for local architectural styles and community values, Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource to help property owners navigate lighting regulations. We understand that in communities like South Jacksonville, lighting isn't just about visibility—it's about maintaining the village's distinctive character and respecting its historical roots.

Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Functionality

South Jacksonville's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. Though not exhaustive, these guidelines establish important principles regarding light trespass, illumination levels, and the visual impact of lighting on the community.

Property owners should pay particular attention to the detailed parking lot illumination standards and light trespass prevention requirements. By following these regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to preserving South Jacksonville's unique character while ensuring properly illuminated private and public spaces.

For specific projects, consulting with village officials during the planning phase is recommended to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements. Through thoughtful lighting practices, South Jacksonville can continue to honor its historical legacy while meeting the needs of its community today.