Lighting Regulations in Spencer County, Indiana: Balancing History, Community Values, and Modern Needs

Introduction: Spencer County's Unique Heritage

Spencer County, Indiana, established in 1818, carries a rich historical legacy that shapes its approach to community planning and regulations. Named after Captain Spier Spencer, who fell at the Battle of Tippecanoe, this southern Indiana county bordering the Ohio River is perhaps best known as the boyhood home of Abraham Lincoln.

The county treasures its historical landmarks, from the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial to the Saint Meinrad Archabbey established in 1854. The charming town of Santa Claus, officially named in 1855, adds to the county's distinctive character.

Spencer County's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical integrity while addressing modern needs. These guidelines aim to maintain the county's aesthetic appeal, historical significance, and rural character while ensuring safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Residential Access Requirements: Light switches and controls must be in accessible locations
• Sexually-Oriented Business Interior Lighting: Minimum 15 foot candles measured at floor level
• Alternative Uses: Must prevent glare toward inhabited buildings and highways
• Wind Energy Conversion Systems: Lighting must adhere to FAA regulations with potential shielding requirements
• General External Lighting: Must be shielded and downcast to prevent light spill onto adjacent properties

Residential Lighting Requirements

Accessibility Standards

Spencer County requires that light switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls be placed in accessible locations within residential dwellings. This regulation ensures that all residents, including those with mobility limitations, can easily control their home environment.

While the code doesn't specify exact placement heights or locations, the focus is on universal accessibility that accommodates all residents.

Commercial Lighting Requirements

Sexually-Oriented Business Lighting Standards

Spencer County has established specific lighting requirements for sexually-oriented businesses to ensure safety and compliance:

Interior Lighting Requirements

• Overhead lighting fixtures must provide minimum illumination of 15 foot candles measured at floor level
• This illumination level must be maintained whenever patrons are present
• Diagram showing the location of all overhead lighting fixtures must be included in license applications

Exterior Lighting Requirements

• Exterior premises must be sufficiently lit to enable visual inspection or video monitoring
• Entry areas must be well-lit for posting of conspicuous signs stating business rules
• Exterior lighting must be adequate to prohibit loitering

These requirements aim to ensure safety, visibility, and appropriate monitoring of such establishments.

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Alternative Uses Structures

For Alternative Uses Structures (AUSES), the county code specifically addresses the issue of light pollution and glare:

• Structures must be designed and located to prevent glare toward:
• Inhabited buildings
• Adjacent highways
• Rights-of-way

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS)

Wind energy projects have specific lighting guidelines to balance safety and minimal light pollution:

FAA Compliance

• Lighting intensity and frequency must adhere to Federal Aviation Administration requirements
• Must not exceed FAA regulations

Light Pollution Control

• Except for FAA-required lighting, shielding may be required
• Shielding must prevent glare from extending substantially beyond the WECS structure

Operational Lighting

• Lighting is limited to that required for:
• Safety purposes
• Inspection needs
• Repair and maintenance
• Operational requirements
• All lighting must be shielded and downcast to prevent light spill onto:
• Adjacent parcels
• Neighboring residences
• Other principal structures

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding the Intent Behind Regulations

Spencer County's lighting regulations aim to balance several important community values:

• Historical Preservation: Protecting the character of historical landmarks and districts
• Rural Character: Maintaining the natural darkness of night skies in rural areas
• Safety Needs: Ensuring adequate lighting for security and navigation
• Neighbor Consideration: Preventing light trespass onto adjacent properties

Practical Compliance Tips

When installing or updating lighting on your property, consider these practical steps:

• Choose Appropriate Fixtures: Select fixtures designed to direct light downward
• Use Proper Shielding: Ensure lights are properly shielded to prevent glare
• Consider Light Temperature: Warmer light tends to be less intrusive
• Adjust Brightness: Use only the intensity needed for the intended purpose
• Check Placement: Position lights to illuminate your property without affecting neighbors

Supporting Spencer County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation priorities. As a manufacturer with experience in communities like Spencer County, we recognize the value of maintaining architectural character while incorporating functional lighting solutions.

Our commitment to community education about lighting regulations aligns with Spencer County's vision. We appreciate the county's efforts to preserve its unique historical sites—from Lincoln's boyhood home to the Saint Meinrad Archabbey—while accommodating necessary modern infrastructure.

Bock Lighting's experience with projects in historically significant areas gives us insight into creating lighting solutions that respect community character and comply with local regulations. We share Spencer County's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that honor the county's rural heritage and historical significance.

Conclusion

Spencer County's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical character while providing for the safety and functionality needs of residents and businesses. By balancing preservation with practical requirements, these guidelines help maintain the county's unique charm and rural character.

Property owners who understand and follow these regulations contribute to preserving Spencer County's distinctive historical atmosphere and natural beauty. Whether lighting a home, business, or special use structure, compliance with these standards helps maintain the county's visual integrity for future generations to enjoy.

By respecting these carefully considered lighting guidelines, residents and businesses play an important role in honoring Spencer County's past while building its future.