Lighting Regulations in Arlington Heights, Ohio: Preserving Small-Town Character Through Simple Guidelines

Introduction

Nestled within the unique geographic confines of Interstate 75's median, Arlington Heights, Ohio stands as one of the nation's most distinctively situated villages. Incorporated in 1889 and covering just 0.27 square miles, this close-knit community of 823 residents maintains its small-town charm while balancing modern municipal needs.

Arlington Heights' approach to lighting regulations reflects its practical, community-focused values. The village's compact size and historical development have shaped a straightforward set of lighting guidelines that prioritize public safety while respecting the community's character.

Quick Reference Guide: Arlington Heights Lighting Regulations

• Public Lighting Oversight: The Street Commissioner/engineer and Administrator supervise lighting of all public spaces
• Tree Maintenance: Trees must not obstruct light from street lamps
• Flag Lighting: Underground lighting for flagpoles must meet specific installation requirements
• Construction Warning Lights: Required for any street/sidewalk obstruction
• Street Lighting Authority: Municipal departments may only light streets with legal public status

Public Lighting Administration

Administrative Responsibilities

Arlington Heights designates specific officials to oversee public lighting throughout the village. The Street Commissioner or engineer is tasked with supervising "the lighting, sprinkling, and cleaning of all public places" and performing related duties as required by the Mayor.

Additionally, the Administrator has official duties concerning:

• Supervision of "lighting, sprinkling, and cleaning of all streets, alleys, and public buildings and places"
• Powers relating to "electric light, power, gas plants, and other similar public utilities"

Street Lighting Authorization

The village's regulations clearly state that no municipal department shall light any street or way unless:

• The street has been accepted or opened with legal public street status prior to the code's effective date
• The street corresponds in location and extent with a street shown on a recorded plat legally accepted by the Legislative Authority

This requirement ensures that lighting resources are allocated only to officially recognized public thoroughfares.

Tree Maintenance and Street Lighting

Preventing Light Obstruction

To maintain effective street lighting, Arlington Heights has established specific regulations regarding trees and vegetation:

• It is unlawful to plant, grow, or maintain any shade trees or shrubbery that obstruct proper light distribution from street lamps
• Tree branches near street lights must be trimmed to allow unobstructed light passage to streets and sidewalks

These requirements serve both safety and practical purposes, ensuring that public areas receive adequate illumination.

Visibility at Intersections

The regulations also address traffic safety concerns, prohibiting trees or shrubbery that "obstruct the view of traffic approaching an intersection by operators of vehicles approaching such intersection from another direction."

Flag Display Lighting Requirements

Underground Lighting Specifications

Arlington Heights permits property owners to install underground lighting for flag displays, subject to these requirements:

• Underground lighting must be situated within a reasonable distance to the flagpole holder
• Lighting must meet all underwriters' requirements governing installation
• The highest part of the lighting fixture must remain flush with the sidewalk or sodded area in which it is embedded

Flagpole Installation Requirements

The regulations also specify that:

• Flagpole holders must be embedded in concrete
• Holders must be flush with the sidewalk or sodded area
• Holders must have a cap or cover for use when not displaying the American flag

Construction and Safety Lighting

Warning Lights for Public Safety

Arlington Heights has established clear requirements for warning lights during construction or when public ways are obstructed:

• Any person excavating or obstructing a street, sidewalk, alley, or other public way must install and maintain illuminated warning lamps
• At least two illuminated warning lamps must be installed at each end of the obstruction
• Lamps must be in place at all times during the night
• For obstructions exceeding 50 feet, at least one additional lamp is required for each additional 50 feet or portion thereof
• All lamps must be securely and conspicuously posted

These regulations prioritize public safety by ensuring that potential hazards are clearly visible at night.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Responsibilities

As a property owner in Arlington Heights, your main lighting-related obligations involve:

1. Maintaining vegetation to prevent obstruction of street lighting
2. Following proper procedures if installing flag display lighting
3. Providing adequate warning lights if conducting any work that obstructs public ways

The village's concise approach to lighting regulations reflects its small-town character and practical governance style.

When Planning Property Improvements

When considering exterior lighting for your property, it's always advisable to:

• Consult with village officials about any planned installations
• Consider how your lighting might affect neighboring properties
• Balance security and visibility needs with respect for Arlington Heights' community character

Supporting Arlington Heights' Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the unique character of communities like Arlington Heights. Our company shares the village's commitment to balancing practical needs with community aesthetics.

Bock Lighting appreciates Arlington Heights' approach to municipal governance, which reflects its close-knit community values. Our experience with similar small Ohio municipalities helps us understand the importance of:

• Preserving community character while addressing modern lighting needs
• Finding practical solutions that respect village regulations
• Supporting small communities with appropriate lighting resources

Our regional presence enables us to serve as an educational resource for residents and businesses seeking to understand and comply with local lighting requirements. We're committed to helping preserve the distinctive character of communities like Arlington Heights through responsible lighting practices.

Conclusion

Arlington Heights' lighting regulations, while limited in scope, reflect the village's practical approach to municipal governance. These straightforward guidelines focus primarily on administrative oversight, public safety, and basic standards for specific applications like flag lighting.

The village's small size and close-knit community likely facilitate informal coordination on lighting matters that might require more detailed regulations in larger municipalities. As Arlington Heights continues to maintain its unique character within the Greater Cincinnati area, these lighting provisions help ensure that public spaces remain safe and appropriately illuminated while respecting the village's small-town atmosphere.

For specific questions about lighting regulations or to discuss particular projects, residents and property owners should contact the Arlington Heights village offices directly.