Lighting Regulations in Troy, Ohio: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Illumination Needs

Introduction

Nestled along the Great Miami River, Troy, Ohio boasts a rich historical legacy dating back to its founding in 1807. The city's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage is evident in landmarks like the Miami County Courthouse, Troy-Hayner Cultural Center, and the historic public square—all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

With approximately 25,000 residents, Troy carefully balances modern development needs with historic preservation. This balance extends to the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to enhance safety and functionality while preserving the community's distinctive aesthetic character.

Quick Reference Guide to Troy's Lighting Regulations

• Residential Properties:
• No-cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 15 feet with illumination limited to 0.20 foot-candles
• Partial cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 20 feet with illumination limited to 0.50 foot-candles
• Full cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 25 feet with illumination limited to 1.0 foot-candle
• Non-Residential Properties:
• No-cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 20 feet with illumination limited to 0.30 foot-candles
• Partial cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 40 feet with illumination limited to 2.0 foot-candles
• Full cutoff luminaires: Maximum height of 50 feet with illumination limited to 4.0 foot-candles
• Street Lighting:
• Must use LED technology
• Heights of 14-18 feet in residential areas
• Spacing of 200-300 feet

Understanding Troy's Lighting Philosophy

The Purpose Behind the Regulations

Troy's lighting regulations serve multiple purposes, from ensuring public safety to maintaining the city's historical character. The regulations specifically aim to:

• Provide adequate light for safety and functionality
• Prevent light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Reduce glare that can cause discomfort or hazards
• Preserve the aesthetic quality of Troy's historic districts

Historical Context and Modern Needs

With historic buildings dating back to the early 19th century, Troy's regulations reflect a careful consideration of how modern lighting affects historic architecture. The detailed regulations help ensure that contemporary lighting needs don't detract from the city's historical charm.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Types of Luminaires and Restrictions

Troy's code classifies luminaires based on their cutoff angle—the angle at which light is completely eliminated above the fixture:

No Cutoff Luminaires (unrestricted light distribution):

• Maximum height: 15 feet
• Maximum illumination: 0.20 foot-candles

Partial Cutoff Luminaires (cutoff angle > 90 degrees):

• Maximum height: 20 feet
• Maximum illumination: 0.50 foot-candles

Full Cutoff Luminaires (cutoff angle < 90 degrees):

• Maximum height: 25 feet
• Maximum illumination: 1.0 foot-candle

Preventing Light Trespass

The regulations are specifically designed to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties. This is particularly important in residential areas where unwanted light can affect quality of life.

Commercial and Non-Residential Lighting Standards

Illumination Levels and Height Restrictions

Non-residential properties have different standards to accommodate their operational needs while still protecting surrounding areas:

No Cutoff Luminaires:

• Maximum height: 20 feet
• Maximum illumination: 0.30 foot-candles

Partial Cutoff Luminaires:

• Maximum height: 40 feet
• Maximum illumination: 2.0 foot-candles

Full Cutoff Luminaires:

• Maximum height: 50 feet
• Maximum illumination: 4.0 foot-candles

Special Commercial Considerations

All fixtures must be shielded so that no direct light is cast upon any property located in a residential zoning district. This requirement helps maintain the quality of life in residential areas adjacent to commercial zones.

Street Lighting Requirements

Standard Specifications

Troy requires consistent street lighting to ensure safety and visibility:

• Technology: Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights on poles
• Power: Served by underground utilities
• Height: 14-18 feet in residential subdivisions
• Spacing: 200-300 feet apart
• Timing: Must be installed before final asphalt is placed

Post Lamp Alternative

As an alternative to street lights, Troy allows post lamps that:

• Must be at least 8 feet above grade
• Located within 5 feet of the right-of-way
• Operated by photo cells and hard-wired
• Maintained as operational and illuminated

Important Note: The city reserves the right to install standard street lighting if post lamps are not properly maintained.

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Stadium and Athletic Field Lighting

Athletic facilities have unique lighting needs balanced with neighborhood considerations:

• Maximum height: 100 feet
• Required illumination: 30 foot-candles on playing surfaces
• Minimum distance from residential properties: 1.5 times the height of the light pole
• Existing vegetation must be maintained to screen residential properties

Construction Sites and Temporary Lighting

For