Lighting Regulations in Southport, North Carolina: Preserving Maritime Heritage Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Nestled at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, Southport, North Carolina boasts a rich historical heritage dating back to Spanish exploration in the 1520s. The city's development from Fort Johnston in 1744 to the town of Smithville in 1792, and eventually to Southport in 1887, has created a distinctive coastal community with deep maritime roots.

This historical character, visible in landmarks like Fort Johnston and the many preserved 19th-century buildings, forms the foundation of Southport's approach to development—including its lighting regulations. As the city balances preservation with modern needs, lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining Southport's small-town charm while ensuring safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements:

• Maximum Color Temperature: 3,000 degrees Kelvin (warm white) for most lighting applications
• Maximum Fixture Height: 40 feet for standard lighting fixtures
• Street Light Spacing: Varies by area (150-300 feet intervals)
• Light Direction: Downward-facing fixtures required to minimize light pollution
• Prohibited Sources: Non-color corrected high-pressure sodium lamps
• Dark Sky Compliance: References International Dark Skies Association standards

Street Lighting Standards

Downtown & Waterfront Areas

The historical heart of Southport receives special lighting consideration:

• Fixture Type: Concrete poles with bell-shaped fixtures
• Bulb Type: 50-watt LED
• Spacing: At all intersections and approximately every 150 feet
• Placement: As close to lateral property lines as possible
• Responsibility: Cost of new and replacement fixtures paid by the City

Main Roadway Corridors

For Southport's primary transportation routes:

• Fixture Type: Aluminum poles with 6-10 foot arms
• Pole Height: 30 feet
• Bulb Type: 100-125 watt LED (specifically BEMC Type 3 104-watt LED)
• Spacing: At all intersections and approximately every 140-300 feet
• Maximum Color Temperature: 4,000 Kelvin

Residential Streets

For quieter neighborhood roads:

• Fixture Type: Aluminum poles with 6-foot arms
• Pole Height: 25 feet
• Bulb Type: 70-80 watt LED
• Spacing: At all intersections and approximately every 300 feet
• Maximum Color Temperature: 3,000 Kelvin

Walkways on Public Right-of-Way

• Fixture Type: Decorative aluminum poles
• Pole Height: 12 feet maximum
• Bulb Type: 75-85 watt LED dark sky fixtures
• Spacing: Approximately every 90 feet

General Exterior Lighting Requirements

Light Source Standards

Southport carefully regulates the types of lighting permitted:

• Permitted Sources:
• Incandescent
• Fluorescent
• Metal halide
• Light emitting diodes (LED)
• Fiber optics
• Color-corrected high-pressure sodium
• Prohibited Sources:
• Non-color corrected high-pressure sodium lamps
• Spotlights throughout the city
• Consistency Requirement: The same light source type must be used for similar lighting on any single development site

Color Temperature & Direction

• Maximum Temperature: 3,000 degrees Kelvin (warm white)
• 2,700 Kelvin is recommended when available
• Side/private roads limited to 3,000K maximum
• Direction Requirements:
• All fixtures must direct light downward
• Overhead fixtures must prevent light from emitting upward toward the sky
• Lighting must not create direct glare onto streets, adjacent properties, or the night sky

Height Restrictions

• Maximum Overall Height: 40 feet for standard lighting
• Pathway Lights: Maximum 15 feet
• Private Security Lights: May not exceed 25 feet

Sign Illumination Standards

General Requirements

• Color Temperature: Must not exceed 3,000 degrees Kelvin (warm white)
• Permitted Types: Backlit and halo lighting allowed if meeting Section 3.19 requirements

District-Specific Regulations

For CBD and BO zoning districts:

• Size Limitations: Internally lit signs limited to 6 square feet
• Prohibited Types: Neon/LED signs prohibited in windows or on exterior signs/murals

What Property Owners Should Know

Grandfathering Provisions

Current property owners need not worry about immediate compliance:

• Existing Fixtures: Generally grandfathered until replacement is needed
• Proximity Exception: Existing lighting within 50 feet specifically grandfathered
• Adjustment Requirement: While not requiring replacement, existing fixtures should be adjusted or shielded to prevent light from shining away from intended focus

Exemptions

Several categories of lighting are exempt from certain regulations:

• Holiday Lighting: Seasonal and decorative string lighting exempt (except for height and direction requirements)
• Residential Properties: One- or two-family residential properties exempt from some lighting regulations
• Safety Lighting: Temporary lighting installed by government agencies for public safety

Requesting Changes

If you want to modify street lighting near your property:

• Additional Lights: Adjacent property owners must agree to extra lighting
• City Approval: The City must approve the request and will bear the financial expense
• Relocation: If you want a light fixture relocated, you must pay the total cost

Supporting Southport's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of preserving historical character while embracing modern technology. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with experience in coastal communities, we recognize Southport's commitment to maintaining its maritime heritage through thoughtful lighting practices.

Our team appreciates the balance Southport has struck between historical preservation, safety needs, and dark sky compliance. The city's approach to lighting—particularly the emphasis on warm color temperatures and downward-facing fixtures—aligns with growing awareness about light pollution's effects on wildlife and human health.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, helping property owners understand how proper illumination can enhance historical architecture while meeting modern standards. Our experience with projects that respect community character makes us a valuable partner for those seeking to maintain Southport's distinctive coastal aesthetic.

Special Applications

Helipad Lighting

For facilities with helipads, specific lighting requirements apply:

• Required Lighting:
• Flood lights directed toward the ground and windsock only
• Linear perimeter lighting (fluorescent or cold cathode type)
• Alternative: Amber lights spaced around the pad (minimum 20 feet apart)

Solar Lighting Initiatives

Southport has explored sustainable lighting options:

• City Pier Solar Lighting:
• 13-foot aluminum poles
• 45-watt LED lantern light fixtures
• 320-watt solar array wraps
• Programmable with dimming capabilities

Conclusion

Southport's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical maritime character while providing safe, functional illumination for residents and visitors. The emphasis on warm lighting, appropriate fixture heights, and dark sky compliance demonstrates a thoughtful approach to balancing modern needs with historical preservation.

Property owners should be aware of these requirements, particularly when installing new lighting or replacing existing fixtures. While many existing installations are grandfathered, the city's long-term vision is clearly focused on creating a cohesive lighting environment that enhances Southport's unique coastal charm.

By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining the distinctive character that has made Southport a treasured coastal community for generations.