Lighting Regulations in Steubenville, Ohio: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Safety Standards

Introduction

Founded in 1797 along the banks of the Ohio River, Steubenville, Ohio, boasts a rich historical heritage that continues to shape its approach to urban development today. The city's historic districts, including the Steubenville Commercial Historic District and North End Neighborhood Historic District, stand as testaments to its architectural significance and commitment to preservation.

This dedication to maintaining historical character while ensuring public safety is reflected in Steubenville's lighting regulations. Since the introduction of electric lighting to the city in the 1880s, Steubenville has continuously evolved its approach to illumination, balancing modern needs with historical sensitivity.

For property owners, understanding these lighting requirements is essential to maintaining compliance while contributing to the city's distinctive atmosphere and character.

Quick Reference Guide

• Construction Sites: Warning lights required at night for all excavations or structures under construction
• Outdoor Lighting Plans: Required for new developments, modifications, or additions to existing lighting
• Sign Lighting: Specific restrictions on illumination direction to prevent glare
• Uplighting: Permitted but limited to low wattage fixtures (max 75 watts)
• Electrical Installation: Underground feeds required for lighting standards
• Industrial Properties: Buffer zones must obscure light glare throughout the year
• Swimming Pools: Lights must be arranged to reflect away from adjoining properties

Understanding Steubenville's Lighting Philosophy

Historical Context and Modern Needs

Steubenville's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring public safety. The city's famous murals, depicting scenes from over a century ago, demonstrate the community's appreciation for its past, while its regulations acknowledge the necessity of modern illumination standards.

The Value of Appropriate Lighting

In a city with significant historical districts, lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting architectural features while maintaining the distinctive atmosphere that makes Steubenville special. Property owners are encouraged to view lighting as not just a functional necessity but as an element that contributes to the city's unique identity.

General Lighting Requirements

Outdoor Lighting Plan Approval

One of the foundational requirements in Steubenville is the need for an Outdoor Lighting Plan. This plan must be:

• Submitted to the Zoning Administrator as part of development proposals
• Approved before zoning approval can be issued
• Detailed enough to demonstrate compliance with applicable provisions
• Required for new installations, replacements, modifications, extensions, expansions, or additions

Underground Installation Requirements

The city places a strong emphasis on aesthetics and safety in lighting installation:

• Electrical service to outdoor lighting fixtures should be underground when practicable
• Electrical feeds to lighting standards must be run underground, not overhead
• This requirement helps maintain the visual character of the city while improving safety

Maintenance Responsibilities

Property owners are responsible for maintaining lighting fixtures to ensure ongoing compliance with regulations. This commitment to maintenance helps ensure both safety and aesthetic standards are preserved throughout the city.

Special Property Requirements

Industrial District Lighting Controls

In several industrial districts (I-1, I-1A, I-2, and I-3), special attention is given to controlling light impacts:

• Buffer zones are required along property lines shared with residential districts
• Vegetation in these zones must be of sufficient density to obscure glare from lights throughout the year
• This requirement demonstrates Steubenville's commitment to preventing light pollution and protecting residential areas

Swimming Pool Lighting

For property owners with swimming pools, specific lighting requirements apply:

• Lights used to illuminate any swimming pool or family pool must be arranged and shaded
• Lighting must reflect away from adjoining premises
• This requirement helps minimize light trespass into neighboring properties

Parking Areas and Access Drives

For multi-family residential, commercial, industrial, and public/semi-public uses:

• Lighting is required for all off-street parking areas
• Lighting is required for loading and unloading areas
• Lighting is required for access drives
• Implementation is required when the Zoning Administrator determines such lighting is necessary

Sign Illumination Guidelines

Indirect Illumination

For indirectly illuminated signs, Steubenville permits:

• Gooseneck lighting
• Thin line reflectors
• These must not extend more than 6 feet beyond the sign structure
• Illumination must be directed upon the face of the sign
• Lighting must be positioned to reduce direct light rays or glare affecting adjacent properties or streets

Architectural and Sign Uplighting

When highlighting architectural features or signs:

• Uplighting is permitted, but only with low wattage fixtures
• Fixtures must be designed for bulbs not exceeding 75 watts
• Light must be trained directly onto the intended surface
• This focused approach helps preserve the night atmosphere while highlighting important features

Ground Signs

For ground-mounted signage:

• Lighting reflectors may project beyond the top or face of a ground sign
• However, all exterior lighting must still prevent glare from encroaching onto adjoining properties

Exemptions and Special Circumstances

Holiday and Temporary Lighting

Not all lighting installations are subject to the standard regulations:

• Temporary holiday lights during November, December, and January are exempt
• However, even holiday lighting must not create dangerous glare on adjacent streets or properties

Other Exemptions

Additional exemptions include:

• Street lighting and lighting activated by motion sensors
• Lighting for temporary circus, fair, carnival or civic uses
• Construction or emergency lighting (only while the condition necessitating it exists)

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When undertaking any development or modification that involves lighting:

• Consult early with the Zoning Administrator
• Include lighting plans in your initial submission
• Remember that entire installations become subject to current requirements when modifications are made
• Consider underground electrical service from the beginning of your planning process

Preventing Common Issues

Most lighting compliance issues can be avoided by focusing on:

• Directing light appropriately to prevent glare and trespass
• Using appropriate buffers between industrial and residential areas
• Maintaining fixtures in good working condition
• Following the specific requirements for your property type and zoning district

Supporting Steubenville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Steubenville's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing necessary modern technology. We understand the balancing act required to maintain the charm of historic areas like Steubenville's downtown district while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

Our expertise in regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a valuable resource for Steubenville property owners seeking to navigate lighting regulations. We appreciate Steubenville's thoughtful approach to maintaining its historical districts while accommodating contemporary lighting needs.

As a community partner, Bock Lighting is committed to supporting sustainable and responsible lighting practices that align with Steubenville's vision for preserving its unique historical identity. Our local presence enables us to better understand the community's specific needs and standards, helping property owners create lighting solutions that respect both regulatory requirements and community character.

Conclusion

Steubenville's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to balancing preservation with progress, creating safe, attractive spaces while honoring its historical heritage. By understanding and following these regulations, property owners contribute to maintaining the distinctive character that makes Steubenville special.

For the most current and complete information, property owners should consult Section 1185.31 of the Steubenville Zoning Code and speak directly with the Zoning Administrator before undertaking any lighting projects. This proactive approach ensures compliance while supporting the city's ongoing efforts to preserve its historical integrity for future generations.