Lighting Regulations in Will County, Illinois: Balancing Growth, Safety, and Community Character

Introduction

Will County, Illinois, established in 1836, has evolved from rural farmlands to a dynamic mix of suburban communities and industrial zones. As one of Chicago's "collar counties," Will County's development has been profoundly shaped by its strategic location and transportation networks. The county's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to balancing growth with preservation of community character.

Lighting regulations in Will County address various concerns from safety and security to aesthetic considerations and light pollution. These standards help maintain the visual harmony of neighborhoods while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Outdoor Lighting Requirements:

• Maximum Light Trespass Limits:
• Residential Boundaries: 0.50 footcandles maximum
• Non-residential Boundaries: 1.00 footcandles maximum
• All outdoor light sources must be shielded to prevent light and glare spillover
• Prohibited Lighting: Flickering lights, flashing lights, search lights, laser source lights
• Dynamic Display Signs:
• Daytime maximum brightness: 5,000 nits
• Nighttime maximum brightness: 250 nits
• Active Recreational Facilities:
• Maximum lighting height: 60 feet
• Curfew: Lights must be off by 11:00 PM

General Outdoor Lighting Standards

Applicability and Exemptions

Will County's outdoor lighting regulations apply to most exterior lighting installations, but several categories are specifically exempted:

• Public street lights
• Single-family detached houses and certain agricultural uses
• Swimming pools and water features governed by building ordinance
• Exit signs and required exit illumination
• Lighting for stairs and ramps required by building codes
• Temporary holiday lighting (used fewer than 30 days per year)
• Low-voltage landscape lighting

Light Measurement Standards

When verifying compliance with lighting regulations, Will County requires specific measurement protocols:

• Measurement Equipment: Light levels must be measured in footcandles with a direct-reading light meter (±5% accuracy)
• Measurement Method:
• Meter sensor must be mounted no more than six inches above ground level
• Readings taken after sensor has stabilized
• Measurements made after dark with light sources on, then with sources off
• Results compared to maximum permitted illumination

Photometric Plan Requirements

For commercial and non-residential properties, Will County requires detailed documentation of lighting installations:

• Required Documentation: Photometric study and lighting fixture data stamped by a licensed professional
• Plan Elements:
• Scale drawing showing all outdoor lighting fixture locations
• Fixture specifications (type, height, shielding, wattage)
• Lamp type and size
• Point-by-point illumination array along property lines (at minimum 10-foot intervals)

Specialized Lighting Requirements

Commercial Establishments

Will County maintains specific lighting requirements for businesses serving alcohol:

• Interior Lighting: All licensed premises must remain continuously illuminated during business hours by natural light or artificial white light
• Enclosed Liquor Sale Areas: If within solid walls, must have a clear glass window (36" x 48" minimum) at eye level with continuous interior lighting

Adult Entertainment Venues

Adult entertainment establishments must adhere to strict lighting standards:

• Minimum Illumination: 30 lux horizontal measured at 30 inches above floor on 10-foot centers
• Distribution: Lighting must be equally distributed throughout public areas
• Exterior Lighting: No flashing lights, search lights, or spotlights permitted

Digital and Illuminated Signs

Will County carefully regulates illuminated signage to prevent light pollution:

• Dynamic Displays:
• Must include automatic brightness adjustment technology
• Light trespass near residential zones cannot exceed 0.1 footcandles above ambient levels
• Brightness verification required for displays adjacent to residential zones
• Externally Illuminated Signs:
• Must use only downward-cast, shielded light sources
• Light fixtures must be mounted on top of sign and aimed downward
• Bulbs must be shielded from view from public rights-of-way

Special Use Light Regulations

Recreational Facilities

Active outdoor recreational facilities have specialized regulations:

• Maximum Height: Lighting structures may not exceed 60 feet
• Curfew Requirement: Lights must be turned off by 11:00 PM
• Shielding: All light sources must prevent spillover to adjacent properties

Telecommunication Facilities

Telecommunication facilities must follow specific lighting guidelines:

• Lighting should be installed for security and safety purposes only
• All lighting must be shielded to prevent glare beyond facility boundaries
• Tower structure lighting is prohibited unless required by FAA regulations

Solar Energy Systems

Will County's regulations for solar installations include:

• Illumination Prohibition: Solar energy systems may not be permanently illuminated
• Exception: Illumination is permitted only when required by FAA or other government authority

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Timeline

If you have non-compliant outdoor lighting that receives complaints, Will County requires that it be brought into compliance by January 1, 2022.

Permit Requirements

While many standard lighting changes don't require permits, be aware of these guidelines:

• Routine replacements (light fixtures, exhaust fans, etc.) are exempt from permit requirements
• New electrical installations typically require permits
• Commercial installations must follow specific conduit requirements for power and lighting

Safety Systems

Emergency and safety lighting have special requirements:

• Emergency lighting circuits should be equipped with mechanical lockouts
• Commercial/industrial installations require special connections for power failure scenarios
• Exit signs and emergency lighting must be maintained during operations

Supporting Will County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Will County's commitment to balanced development that respects community character. Our experience with diverse lighting projects in communities transitioning from rural to suburban settings allows us to understand the unique challenges Will County faces.

We appreciate Will County's approach to lighting regulations that accommodate both modern needs and preservation priorities. As the county continues to grow and evolve, thoughtful lighting design plays a crucial role in defining community spaces while minimizing light pollution and energy waste.

Bock Lighting serves as a resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations, offering expertise in creating lighting solutions that enhance safety and aesthetics while respecting local ordinances. Our knowledge of regional architectural styles helps us recommend appropriate lighting that complements the diverse building types found throughout Will County.

Conclusion

Will County's lighting regulations reflect its journey from rural beginnings to a modern suburban community. These standards aim to ensure adequate illumination for safety and security while preventing light pollution and preserving community character.

The most significant requirements focus on minimizing light trespass beyond property boundaries, particularly near residential areas. With specific technical standards for light measurement and installation documentation, the county provides clear guidance for property owners and developers.

By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to Will County's vision of responsible growth that honors its historical character while embracing modern development needs.