Lighting Regulations in Alva, Oklahoma: A Guide to Historic Preservation and Property Compliance

Introduction

Nestled in northwestern Oklahoma, the city of Alva carries a rich history dating back to its establishment during the Cherokee Outlet land run of 1893. Home to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, whose campus architecture has evolved from the historic "Castle on the Hill" to modern facilities, Alva embraces a balance of preservation and progress.

With approximately 5,000 residents, this regional hub maintains its small-town character while addressing modern needs. The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects this balance—preserving the community's historical integrity while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into specifics, here are the most important lighting regulations to know in Alva:

• Building Moving: Red lights required on buildings being moved through the city
• Sign Illumination: Only non-intermittent white lighting permitted for signs
• Flashing Signs: Not permitted within 300 feet of residential, parking, or office districts
• Residential Impacts: Light intensity must not interfere with residential district uses
• Underground Utilities: Street lighting wires in new residential subdivisions must be placed underground
• Airport Vicinity: Lighting cannot cause glare or confusion for aircraft operations

Building Movement Lighting Requirements

Safety First: Red Light Requirements

When moving structures through Alva, safety lighting is mandatory. The city code provides specific requirements:

• Red lights must be placed in plainly visible positions
• Lights must extend at least 200 feet on each side of the building being moved
• Lights must remain burning throughout the night until one hour after sunrise
• Light placement must ensure unobstructed visibility
• Additional lights required at other points on the building if necessary

Why These Requirements Matter

These regulations ensure public safety when large structures are transported through public rights-of-way. The red lighting alerts motorists and pedestrians to potential obstacles, particularly during nighttime hours when visibility is naturally reduced.

Sign Illumination Standards

Permitted Sign Lighting

Alva's code provides specific guidelines for sign illumination to maintain community character while allowing businesses to advertise effectively:

• Only non-intermittent white lighting is permitted for signs
• No illumination simulating traffic control devices or emergency vehicles
• No instantaneous flashing signs permitted in any district

Restrictions on Flashing Signs

The code defines specific limitations on flashing signs:

• No flashing signs within 300 feet of residential (R), parking (P), or office (O) districts if directly visible
• Flashing sign definition: Signs with changing light effects where rate of change exceeds:
• Revolving/oscillating signs: one revolution per 30 seconds
• Time/temperature displays: one change of information per 15 seconds
• Alternating lights: 15 seconds on and 15 seconds off

These regulations help prevent light pollution and distractions in residential areas while still allowing appropriate business signage.

Airport Vicinity Protections

Aviation Safety Requirements

Properties near Alva's airport must comply with special lighting regulations focused on aviation safety:

• No land use may make it difficult for pilots to distinguish between airport lights and others
• No land use may result in glare affecting pilots using the airport
• No land use may impair visibility in the vicinity of the airport
• Owners of nonconforming structures near the airport must permit installation of markers and lights deemed necessary by administrative authorities
• Such markers and lights are installed at city expense

Historical Context

These regulations reflect Alva's role as a regional transportation hub, dating back to the city's founding alongside railroad expansion in the 1890s. Today, air transportation continues this important connection to the wider region.

Residential Lighting Considerations

Protecting Residential Character

Several provisions in Alva's code protect residential areas from lighting impacts:

• Parking and driveway lighting intensity and arrangement must not interfere with residential district uses
• Screening should prevent the passage of glare insofar as practical
• When evaluating conditional uses, the Board of Adjustment considers glare of vehicular and stationary lights and their effects on the established character of neighborhoods

Underground Utilities Requirement

To maintain aesthetic quality in newer residential areas:

• Wires providing street lighting in residential subdivisions must be placed underground
• This requirement applies to all local utility services including electric, telephone, and cable television

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Growing Area Requirements

For designated growing areas:

• All lighting components must comply with municipal building and fire codes

Prohibition on Damaging Lights

The code also protects lighting infrastructure:

• It is unlawful to throw or shoot any object at electric lights (public or private)
• No person shall place advertising signs on any street-lighting pole within the city

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Your Lighting Project

When planning new lighting for your property in Alva:

• Consider neighbors: Ensure your lighting won't interfere with residential uses
• Check zoning: Different requirements apply in different districts
• Sign illumination: Only use non-intermittent white lighting for signs
• Contact officials: For complex projects, consult with city officials before installation

Conditional Use Considerations

If you're seeking a conditional use permit, be aware that lighting factors into the evaluation:

• The location and type of lighting is a consideration
• Officials will evaluate the relationship of lighting to traffic control
• Adverse effects on adjacent properties will be assessed
• The glare from lights and their impact on neighborhood character will be reviewed

Supporting Alva's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Alva's commitment to balancing modern needs with preservation of historical character. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share an appreciation for communities that value their architectural heritage.

We recognize that Alva's approach to lighting regulations reflects its unique character as a historic Oklahoma community. Our team stays informed about regulations in communities throughout the region to serve as a resource for residents seeking to enhance their properties while respecting local requirements.

Our experience with projects that honor community character while incorporating modern technology makes us a valuable partner for Alva property owners. We're committed to supporting sustainable lighting practices that align with the city's vision for preserving its distinctive atmosphere while meeting practical needs.

Conclusion

Alva's lighting regulations, though not extensive, reflect the city's commitment to safety, functionality, and preservation of community character. From the practical considerations of moving buildings to the aesthetic concerns of sign illumination, these regulations help maintain Alva's unique blend of historical charm and modern function.

By understanding and following these guidelines, property owners contribute to the continued development of Alva as a vibrant community that honors its past while embracing its future. When in doubt about specific requirements for your property, consulting with city officials is always the best approach to ensure compliance.