Lighting Regulations in Wintersville, Ohio: A Guide for Property Owners and Businesses

Introduction

Wintersville, Ohio, a charming village in Jefferson County with a population of 3,609, balances suburban development with small-town character. First settled in 1831, this community in the Weirton–Steubenville metropolitan area has evolved thoughtfully over nearly two centuries while maintaining its distinct identity.

Though lacking widely recognized historical districts, Wintersville's approach to municipal regulations, including lighting, reflects its commitment to creating a cohesive, pleasant living environment. The village's lighting regulations serve multiple purposes: enhancing safety, maintaining aesthetics, and minimizing light pollution—all while accommodating both residential and commercial interests.

Let's explore what property owners and businesses need to know about Wintersville's lighting requirements.

Quick Reference Guide

• Construction sites must have warning lights at night
• Mobile home parks require street lights every 300 feet (maximum)
• Industrial properties must limit light to 0.5 foot candles at residential boundaries
• Signs may be illuminated if they don't create hazards or nuisances
• Telecommunications towers cannot be lit unless required by FAA/FCC
• Flickering lights that cause nuisance across property lines are prohibited

Construction and Development Requirements

Safety Lighting for Construction Sites

Safety is paramount in Wintersville when it comes to construction areas. Section 521.03 specifically addresses lighting requirements for construction zones:

• All excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction must be protected
• Warning lights required at night for any potentially dangerous condition
• Applies to both public and private property
• Abandoned excavations must also be properly illuminated for safety

Development Planning Requirements

When submitting plans for new developments in Wintersville, lighting considerations are required documentation:

• Street lighting data must be included with preliminary plat submissions
• Parking facility illumination plans must be submitted for approval
• Travel trailer parks must comply with all lighting regulations for their district

Residential Area Lighting Requirements

Mobile Home Park Lighting

The village has detailed regulations specifically for lighting in mobile home parks:

Street Light Requirements

• Ornamental-type poles are permitted
• Placement on alternate sides of roadways when possible
• Maximum distance between poles: 300 feet
• Required at all roadway intersections
• Must comply with village standards for residential street lighting
• Underground wiring required for all installations

Alternative Post Lantern Option

• Post lanterns may be installed on each mobile home site
• Uniform distance from required roadway
• Must remain lit from sunset to sunrise
• Cannot be controlled by mobile home occupants

Commercial and Industrial Lighting Regulations

Sign Illumination Standards

Signs in Wintersville may be illuminated, but with important restrictions:

• Cannot create nuisance to adjoining properties
• Must not cause hazardous conditions on streets or highways
• Signs near residential areas (within 50 feet) require special design considerations
• Advertising signs may be lighted if not distracting to motorists
• No red, green, or amber illumination for signs visible from traffic signal areas
• Directional signs in parks may be lighted to guide visitors

Industrial Glare Limitations

Industrial properties must be particularly careful about light pollution:

• Maximum illumination: 0.5 foot candles when measured at any residential district boundary
• Flickering or intense light sources must be controlled to prevent nuisance
• Light monitoring may be required to ensure compliance
• Adjustments to lighting may be necessary if violations occur

Telecommunications Tower Lighting

Wintersville maintains specific regulations for telecommunications facilities:

• No lighting permitted on wireless telecommunications towers
• Exception: when required by FAA or FCC regulations
• Security lighting allowed if compliant with village ordinances and Ohio state law

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Light Trespass

Light trespass occurs when light from your property spills onto neighboring properties. In Wintersville:

• Industrial properties must limit light at residential boundaries
• Commercial signage must be designed to minimize light impact on residences
• Flickering lights creating nuisance across property lines are prohibited

Planning for New Construction

If you're planning new construction or significant renovations:

• Include lighting plans in your development submissions
• Consider neighboring properties when designing outdoor lighting
• Document compliance with applicable lighting regulations
• Keep safety requirements in mind for any construction areas

Special Use Considerations

Different property types have specific requirements:

• Mobile home parks have detailed lighting standards
• Travel trailer parks must adhere to district-specific lighting rules
• Commercial signage has illumination restrictions
• Industrial properties face stricter light trespass limitations

Supporting Wintersville's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the unique character and needs of communities like Wintersville. We share the village's commitment to balancing safety, functionality, and aesthetics in creating pleasant suburban environments.

Regional Understanding

Our decades of experience in the region give us unique insight into the architectural styles and lighting needs of communities throughout Northeast Ohio, including Wintersville and the broader Weirton–Steubenville metropolitan area.

Commitment to Community Standards

Bock Lighting appreciates Wintersville's approach to maintaining a cohesive community appearance while accommodating both residential and commercial interests. Our lighting solutions are designed to help property owners meet local regulations while enhancing their properties.

Educational Resources

Beyond manufacturing quality lighting products, we serve as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. Our team can help clarify requirements and identify solutions that align with Wintersville's standards and community values.

Sustainable Lighting Practices

We're committed to sustainable and responsible lighting practices that minimize light pollution and energy waste—priorities that align with Wintersville's approach to balanced community development.

Conclusion

Wintersville's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to maintaining a pleasant suburban environment while ensuring safety and functionality. From construction sites to mobile home parks, commercial signage to industrial properties, these standards help create a cohesive community appearance.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with these requirements before undertaking new projects or modifications to existing lighting systems. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to Wintersville's continued development as an attractive place to live and work.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property, contacting the village administration is recommended to ensure full compliance with current regulations.