Lighting Regulations in Barry, Illinois: Preserving Historic Character While Ensuring Public Safety

Introduction

Barry, Illinois, founded in the 1830s as an agricultural community, has carefully developed regulations that reflect its rich historical heritage. After a devastating fire in 1894 destroyed much of the commercial core, the community rebuilt, creating the well-preserved examples of late 19th-century architecture we see today. The Barry Historic District, which includes both commercial and older residential sections like the "Diamond Hill" area, stands as a testament to the city's commitment to historical preservation.

This commitment to maintaining Barry's distinct character extends to the city's approach to lighting regulations. With a population of around 1,675 (as of 2010), Barry has established specific lighting requirements that balance safety concerns with respect for the community's historical integrity. These regulations help ensure that Barry maintains its small-town charm while meeting modern needs.

Quick Reference Guide

Here are the key lighting regulations you need to know in Barry:

• Liquor Establishments: Must be fully illuminated and visible from street
• Assembly Halls: Require illuminated exit signs with 6" letters and red lights
• Construction Sites: Must have lights on barricades at nighttime
• Sidewalk Obstructions: Any materials left on sidewalks must be illuminated after dark
• Street Lighting: Under supervision of the Committee on Streets, Alleys and Sidewalks

Lighting Requirements for Businesses

Liquor Establishment Lighting

For businesses selling liquor for consumption on premises, specific lighting requirements apply:

• Full Visibility Required: No arrangement of lights shall prevent a full view of the premises from the street, road, or sidewalk
• Continuous Illumination: All rooms must be continuously lighted during business hours
• Light Quality: Must use natural light or artificial white light
• Illumination Level: Lighting must ensure all parts of the interior are clearly visible

These requirements serve both safety and community purposes, allowing for proper monitoring while maintaining Barry's commitment to responsible business practices.

Special Event Lighting

For special events where alcohol will be sold:

• Lighting Plan Required: Applicants must submit a description of proposed lighting
• Security Integration: Lighting must be coordinated with proposed security measures
• Boundary Illumination: Lighting must help define physical boundaries and ingress/egress points

Public Assembly Spaces

Exit Signage and Illumination

For buildings or halls used as assembly spaces with capacity for 100+ persons:

• Exit Signs: Must provide signs with "Exit" in letters at least 6 inches high over every exit
• Illuminated Exits: A light with a red globe must be placed at or over each exit sign
• Continuous Operation: This light must remain illuminated during the entire period the hall is open and until all audience members have left

These requirements focus on emergency safety while acknowledging the community gathering spaces that are central to Barry's small-town character.

Construction and Public Way Safety

Barricades and Lighting

When work is being done on public spaces, proper illumination is essential:

• Nighttime Visibility: Any person laying or repairing pavement or making excavations must protect barricades with lights at nighttime
• Sidewalk Materials: Any materials or coal left on sidewalks after nighttime must be guarded by lights
• Protection Requirements: Openings or excavations in pavement must be properly barricaded and lit as long as they remain open
• Tampering Prohibited: It is unlawful to disturb or interfere with any barricade or lights lawfully placed to protect new pavement or openings

These practical requirements highlight Barry's commitment to public safety while accommodating necessary improvements to the city's infrastructure.

Street Lighting Oversight

Barry's lighting regulations include specific governance structures:

• The Committee on Streets, Alleys and Sidewalks has supervision of street lighting
• The Committee enforces compliance with any contracts for street lighting
• The Committee performs other duties related to proper street lighting as necessary

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Improvements

Property owners should note that:

• Lighting improvements cannot be made by owners, their agents, or public service corporations at the request of owners without proper approval
• This regulation helps ensure coordinated development that aligns with Barry's community standards
• Early consultation with city officials is recommended when planning lighting upgrades

Historical Considerations

When planning lighting for properties within or near the Barry Historic District:

• Consider how lighting choices impact the historic character of the area
• Remember that visibility and safety requirements must still be met, even in historic contexts
• The city's regulations aim to balance modern needs with historical preservation

Supporting Barry's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique challenges and opportunities presented by communities like Barry. We appreciate Barry's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring public safety through appropriate lighting.

With extensive experience in communities that value their architectural heritage, Bock Lighting recognizes the importance of lighting solutions that respect Barry's distinct late 19th-century commercial architecture and historic residential areas like "Diamond Hill."

Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs enables us to serve as a resource for property owners navigating Barry's lighting regulations. We share the community's dedication to maintaining its small-town charm while meeting modern lighting requirements for safety and visibility.

Bock Lighting's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Barry's vision of preserving its historical integrity while accommodating contemporary needs. We believe that thoughtful lighting enhances rather than detracts from a community's distinctive character.

Conclusion

Barry's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to public safety and historical preservation. Though relatively specific to certain situations rather than comprehensive, these regulations help maintain the character that makes Barry special while ensuring practical safety considerations are addressed.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with these requirements, particularly when operating businesses that serve alcohol, managing public assembly spaces, or conducting construction activities. By understanding and following these regulations, residents contribute to preserving Barry's unique charm and historical significance for future generations.

Remember that these regulations are designed not just for compliance, but to maintain the distinctive character that has developed in Barry since its founding in the 1830s and particularly following its rebuilding after the 1894 fire. This balance of historical preservation and practical safety reflects the values that continue to shape this special Illinois community.