Lighting Regulations in Bartlett, Illinois: Balancing Safety, Functionality, and Community Character

Introduction: Illuminating Bartlett's Historical Perspective

Founded in the late 19th century when Luther Bartlett strategically offered land to the railroad, the Village of Bartlett has grown into a thriving community while maintaining its small-town charm. With over 36,000 residents, Bartlett balances modern development needs with historical preservation, as evidenced by the Bartlett Historical Society's active work converting a church into a museum to showcase the village's past.

This commitment to preserving community character while addressing contemporary needs is reflected in Bartlett's approach to lighting regulations. These standards ensure that lighting enhances safety and functionality while respecting the aesthetic priorities and historical identity that make Bartlett unique.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here are the most critical lighting regulations in Bartlett:

• Light Trespass Limits:
• Maximum 1.0 foot-candle at property lines adjacent to industrial, commercial, or office zones
• Maximum 0.2 foot-candle at property lines adjacent to residential zones
• Color Temperature: Exterior lighting fixtures cannot exceed 3000K
• Height Restrictions:
• Standard parking lot light poles: 30 feet maximum height
• O-R and B-4 zoning parking lot light poles: 25 feet maximum height
• Parking Lots: Must maintain minimum 0.5 foot-candles over entire ground area
• Directional Requirements: All exterior lighting must be directed away from adjacent highways, streets, and properties

Residential Property Lighting Requirements

Home Exterior Lighting

Bartlett's regulations focus on preventing light trespass while allowing homeowners to adequately illuminate their properties. Exterior lighting from your property must not exceed 0.2 foot-candles at any residential property line.

Home Occupation Considerations

If you operate a business from your home, lighting must not create glare that's "readily discernible at the property lines" beyond what a typical single-family dwelling would produce.

Sports Court Lighting

For residential properties with sports courts, lights must be directed specifically toward the court to avoid light spillage onto neighboring properties.

Swimming Pool Lighting

All swimming pool lighting fixtures must be low voltage with not more than 15 volts between conductors, ensuring safety around water features.

Commercial & Industrial Lighting Standards

Light Levels and Trespass

Commercial and industrial properties face strict light trespass regulations:

• Light levels cannot exceed 1.0 foot-candle at property lines adjacent to industrial, commercial, or office zones
• Light levels cannot exceed 0.2 foot-candle at property lines adjacent to residential zones

Parking Lot Illumination

Parking lot lighting requirements include:

• Minimum 0.5 foot-candles over the entire ground area
• Illumination must be maintained in functioning condition
• Lighting must be activated by photo electronic device (not timers)
• Maximum pole height of 30 feet (25 feet for O-R and B-4 zones)

Vacant Commercial Properties

Even vacant commercial properties must maintain exterior lighting according to standards established by the village director.

Glare Control

Any operation producing intense glare or heat must be performed within a completely enclosed building to prevent public nuisance or hazard along lot lines.

Sign Lighting Regulations

Illuminated Sign Requirements

• Electrical work requires a valid permit
• Voltage must be conspicuously marked on electrical apparatus
• No flashing, scintillating, traveling, or blinking lights
• No rotating beacons or projected beams that periodically change color
• Signs must be shaded to avoid casting bright light on residential property
• 11 PM to 7 AM illumination restriction for signs adjacent to residential areas

Internal Illumination Standards

For internally illuminated signs, light must shine fully through only the lettering and graphic elements. The background must be opaque or translucent, transmitting substantially less light than the lettering and graphics.

Awning Signs

No awnings with signs shall contain any lighting or illuminating apparatus or have electrical wiring attached.

Safety & Emergency Lighting

Exit Lighting

Assembly halls accommodating 100+ persons must have:

• "Exit" signs with letters at least 6 inches high over every egress
• Red globe light placed at or over each sign
• Lighting maintained during entire period the hall is open to the public

Closet Lighting

• Closets 5+ square feet must have approved lighting fixtures
• Walk-in closets require wall control switches for light fixtures

Furnace Area Lighting

All furnace areas must have lighting fixtures within 6 feet of the furnace service panel, and this light cannot be on the furnace circuit.

Emergency Strobes

All outside strobes for non-residential multiple-tenant buildings must be weatherproof, clear, and minimum 75 candela.

Street Lighting Standards

Light Level Requirements

• Residential streets: 0.4 average maintained footcandles, 0.2 minimum
• Commercial/office streets: 1.2 average maintained footcandles, 0.4 minimum
• Industrial streets: 0.6 average maintained footcandles, 0.4 minimum

Mounting Heights

• Arterial and collector streets: 25-foot mounting height
• Residential local streets: 15-foot mounting height
• Commercial, institutional, and industrial local streets: 25-foot mounting height

Technical Specifications

• Poles: Round aluminum poles (Hapco Co. series 77 or equal for 15' height; series 30 with flange base for 25' height)
• Luminaires: Must provide high output white mercury vapor with IES type III distribution
• Operation: Controlled by photocell to turn on at dusk and off at dawn

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

Before installing or modifying exterior lighting:

• Submit a lighting plan for review and approval by the village engineer
• Ensure fixtures don't exceed 3000K color temperature
• Consider neighbors by directing light away from property lines
• Install fixtures that minimize light trespass

Common Compliance Issues

The most frequent lighting violations involve:

• Excessive light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Improper direction of lighting fixtures
• Pole heights exceeding maximum limits
• Inadequate parking lot illumination levels

Benefits of Compliance

Proper lighting not only keeps you in compliance with village regulations but also:

• Reduces light pollution, allowing for better night sky visibility
• Creates a more pleasant environment for neighbors
• Improves energy efficiency
• Enhances the overall character of Bartlett

Supporting Bartlett's Lighting Vision

As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting shares Bartlett's commitment to balancing modern functionality with historical character. We understand that communities like Bartlett value lighting systems that enhance safety and usability while respecting the village's aesthetic priorities and small-town charm.

Bock Lighting appreciates Bartlett's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations, which protect residential areas from light pollution while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and security. Our expertise in regional architectural styles and lighting needs enables us to serve as a resource for property owners navigating these specific requirements.

We're committed to helping communities maintain their distinctive character through responsible lighting practices that align with local regulations. With our understanding of the balance Bartlett seeks between progress and tradition, we can provide guidance on solutions that comply with the village's technical specifications while enhancing its visual appeal.

Conclusion

Bartlett's lighting regulations reflect the village's dedication to creating a safe, functional community while preserving its historical identity and small-town character. By following these guidelines, property owners contribute to reducing light pollution, conserving energy, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the village.

Whether you're installing new exterior lighting, illuminating a parking lot, or adding signage to your business, understanding and complying with these regulations ensures your project will illuminate Bartlett beautifully while respecting its unique community values.

For specific questions about your lighting project's compliance, contact the Bartlett Village Engineer or Building Department before beginning installation.