Lighting Regulations in Topton Borough, Pennsylvania: Preserving Historic Charm While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Illuminating Topton's Rich Heritage

Nestled in the northeast corner of Berks County, Topton Borough carries a distinctive historical character that dates back to the mid-19th century. Named in 1859 by Berks County Judge George D. Stitzel after he reached the highest point between Reading and Allentown terminals, Topton grew from a railroad junction into a vibrant community.

With its roots as a shipping center for iron ore and home to several blast furnaces, Topton has evolved while maintaining its small-town charm. This balance between historical preservation and modern functionality is reflected in the borough's approach to lighting regulations.

The lighting standards in Topton Borough serve multiple important purposes:

• Preserving the community's historical aesthetic
• Minimizing light pollution
• Ensuring safety for residents and visitors
• Preventing nuisance to neighboring properties

Let's explore the specific requirements that help maintain Topton's character while meeting modern lighting needs.

Quick Reference Guide to Topton Borough Lighting Regulations

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting requirements to know:

• Light Trespass Limits: Maximum 0.2 foot-candles beyond property lines
• Shielding Requirements: All lighting must be shielded from neighboring properties
• Street Lighting Standards: Must conform to Spotts, Stevens & McCoy Plan No. 7010-172-B
• Sign Illumination: Light must remain constant throughout sign face
• Pedestrian Areas: Must have adequate lighting for safe nighttime movement
• Flashing Lights: Prohibited except for seasonal holiday displays (Oct 25-Jan 10)
• Parking Areas: Non-residential parking must be adequately illuminated during night use

General Property Lighting Requirements

Light Trespass Prevention

Topton Borough places significant emphasis on preventing light from spilling onto neighboring properties. When illuminating your property at night:

• Light sources must be shielded from adjoining properties and streets
• No direct beams of light may be directed toward adjacent properties or roads
• All light sources must be properly diffused with translucent covers
• Maximum light intensity allowed is 0.2 foot-candles beyond property lines

Glare Reduction Measures

The borough regulations explicitly prohibit glare that affects neighboring properties:

• "No lighting shall be utilized in a manner which produces glare perceptible at or beyond the lot lines"
• Light sources (including signs) must have proper diffusion to prevent direct visibility from streets, sidewalks, or adjacent properties

Special Circumstances

In certain situations, specific lighting requirements apply:

• Excavations or openings: Must have "substantial barricades with adequate illumination"
• Backflow devices: Must be accessible with "adequate natural or artificial lighting" for maintenance and inspection
• Home occupations: No outside appearance of business use, including lights

Development and Planning Requirements

Lighting Plan Submission

When developing property in Topton Borough, lighting details must be included in your plans:

• Land development plans must show "provisions for lighting of the tract"
• A dedicated lighting plan must include:
• Location of all light poles
• Type and height of poles
• Type and brightness of lighting fixtures
• Specific fixture type for each location

Street Lighting Standards

The borough maintains specific standards for street lighting:

• Must conform to Spotts, Stevens & McCoy, Inc., Plan No. 7010-172-B
• Borough Manager provides developers with these standards
• Street lights are required in all subdivisions and land developments
• Installation conditions must be agreed upon by the developer, borough, and utility company

Pedestrian Considerations

Safety for pedestrians is a priority in the lighting regulations:

• All pedestrian walks must have lighting units that allow safe movement at night
• Lighting must be properly spaced, equipped, and installed
• The placement must not create hazards for pedestrians or vehicular traffic

Sign Illumination Requirements

Dynamic and Digital Signs

The borough has specific requirements for illuminated and dynamic signs:

• Dynamic signs cannot exceed zero foot-candles at property lines
• Must include automatic day/night dimming software
• Must cease illumination by 11:00 p.m. or 30 minutes after business hours
• Light intensity and contrast must remain constant throughout the sign face

Prohibited Lighting Types

Certain lighting features are not permitted:

• Flashing, flickering, or strobe lighting is prohibited (except seasonal holiday lights between October 25 and January 10)
• Signs cannot use flashing or intermittent illumination
• Light sources for signs must be "steady and stationary"
• Exception: Units displaying time and temperature alternately are permitted

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Parking Areas

Non-residential parking areas have specific lighting requirements:

• Must be adequately illuminated during night hours of use
• Illumination must be designed and shielded from adjoining properties and streets
• Must comply with the general lighting requirements of § 154.082

Commercial Communications Towers

The borough limits lighting on tall structures:

• No artificial lighting of commercial communications towers or antennas
• Exception: When required and approved by the FAA

Small Wind Energy Systems

Similar to communications towers:

• No illumination of turbines or towers allowed
• Exception: When required by the FAA

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Your Lighting

When designing lighting for your property in Topton Borough, consider these practical steps:

1. Start with shielding: Select fixtures that direct light downward and away from neighboring properties
2. Measure light levels: Ensure your lighting won't exceed 0.2 foot-candles at property lines
3. Choose appropriate fixtures: Use diffused lighting rather than direct, exposed bulbs
4. Consider the historical context: Select styles that complement Topton's character
5. Consult early: When in doubt, check with borough officials before installation

Common Compliance Issues

Property owners should be aware of these frequent challenges:

• Improper shielding leading to light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Over-illumination of signs or properties
• Decorative lighting that may be considered flashing or flickering
• Insufficient pedestrian area lighting for safety

Supporting Topton's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, shares Topton Borough's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern lighting technology. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer, we understand the regional architectural styles and the importance of maintaining community character in places like Topton.

Our expertise can help property owners navigate lighting regulations while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their buildings. We appreciate Topton's careful balance of safety, functionality, and historical preservation expressed in these lighting standards.

Bock Lighting's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Topton's vision for minimizing light pollution while providing adequate illumination. Our team can serve as a resource for property owners seeking to understand and comply with local lighting regulations.

Our experience with projects that respect community character makes us a valuable partner for those looking to maintain Topton's small-town charm while meeting modern lighting needs.

Conclusion

Topton Borough's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and preventing nuisance. The careful balance between adequate illumination and light pollution control helps maintain the community's distinctive charm.

Property owners should pay particular attention to light trespass limits, shielding requirements, and specific regulations for different types of lighting. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to Topton's continued appeal as a historic Pennsylvania borough.

Whether you're planning a new development, updating your business signage, or simply improving your home's exterior lighting, these guidelines will help ensure your project aligns with Topton's vision for thoughtful illumination that respects both history and neighbors.