Lighting Regulations in Bethany, Oklahoma: Balancing Community Character with Modern Needs

Introduction

Bethany, Oklahoma, founded in 1909 by members of the Church of the Nazarene, holds a special place in Oklahoma County's history. With its roots as a religious community and its historic connection to Route 66, Bethany maintains a small-town atmosphere while being part of the larger Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for its approximately 20,000 residents. These regulations aim to balance modern lighting needs with Bethany's community-focused values and aesthetic priorities.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Electronic message center signs:
• Permitted only in commercial, industrial, educational, and commercial portions of mixed-use zones
• Maximum brightness: 600 candelas per square meter from dusk to dawn; 800 candelas during daytime
• Must include automatic dimming capabilities
• Cannot exceed 50% of total allowed sign area
• Medical marijuana facilities:
• Lighting must not exceed 1,000 watts per light
• Must not produce light/glare that constitutes a public nuisance
• Parking areas:
• Lighting must not create nuisance or hazard for streets or adjoining properties
• Signs:
• Illuminated signs must have underground utility service
• Externally lit wall sign fixtures may extend up to 7 feet beyond sign face
• Fixtures must be at least 15 feet above any public right-of-way

Electronic Message Center Sign Requirements

Brightness and Dimming Controls

Electronic message center signs in Bethany must comply with specific brightness limitations to prevent light pollution and ensure traffic safety. These digital displays must:

• Not exceed 600 candelas per square meter between dusk and dawn
• Not exceed 800 candelas per square meter during all other times
• Include automatic dimming software, solar sensors, or comparable methods to control brightness
• Adjust automatically for nighttime viewing and variations in daytime conditions

Application Requirements

When applying for an electronic message center sign, property owners may need to:

• Submit a photometric plan showing candelas per square meter
• Provide manufacturer's specifications for the automatic dimming system
• Include a description of the proposed dimming method
• Have the photometric plan signed and sealed by an Oklahoma licensed engineer

Display Restrictions

To maintain safety and community aesthetics, electronic message centers:

• Must not produce glare that constitutes a traffic hazard
• Cannot display moving text or images
• Must not have varying light intensity
• Cannot use revolving, strobing, beaming, or flashing effects

Sign Illumination Standards

Allowed Sign Lighting Types in CBD and MUD Districts

The Central Business District (CBD) and Mixed-Use District (MUD) have specific regulations for sign illumination:

• Internal illumination: Permitted if letters are individually illuminated using routed or push-through type letters
• Ground-mounted lighting: Allowed if light source is concealed through planting or screening
• Indirect lighting: Permitted if light source is concealed or compatible with building architecture
• Neon lighting: Allowed in these districts

Awning Sign Illumination

Illuminated awning signs must follow these guidelines:

• Lighting source must be mounted parallel to the building elevation
• Light fixtures must be concealed within the interior of the awning
• Illumination must be directed downward to prevent light spill

Maintenance Requirements

Property owners must maintain sign lighting in good condition:

• All illuminative elements must be kept in satisfactory working condition
• Non-functioning elements must be immediately repaired or replaced

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Telecommunications Towers

Lighting on telecommunications towers is strictly regulated:

• Must comply with Federal Communications Commission requirements
• Must comply with Federal Aviation Administration requirements
• No additional lighting is permitted unless specifically approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission

Medical Marijuana Facilities

Lighting for medical marijuana growing operations must:

• Not exceed 1,000 watts per light
• Not create light or glare that constitutes a public nuisance
• Not interfere with reasonable enjoyment of life and property

Parking Areas

Lighting in off-street parking areas:

• Must not create a nuisance or hazard for streets
• Must not create a nuisance or hazard for adjoining properties

What Property Owners Should Know

Development Plans and Approvals

When preparing development plans:

• All Final Development Plans must include comprehensive lighting plans
• The City Council may impose specific conditions related to lighting
• Special use permits may include lighting-specific requirements

Prohibited Lighting Effects

Be aware that certain lighting effects are prohibited:

• Lights that revolve, rotate, strobe, beam, blink, flash or reflect upon public streets
• Signs continuously outlined with individual light bulbs (with specific exceptions)
• Lights or spotlights visible from any lot, parcel or right-of-way

Exceptions to Light String Prohibitions

While signs outlined with individual light bulbs are generally prohibited, exceptions include:

• Temporary holiday decorations
• Temporary lighting for carnivals, fairs, or similar events
• Design elements within the CBD and MUD zone districts

Supporting Bethany's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Bethany's commitment to balancing historical character with modern functionality. We understand the unique character of communities like Bethany that value their historical connections – particularly its Route 66 heritage – while meeting the needs of residents and businesses.

Our team appreciates Bethany's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to preserve the community's small-town atmosphere while ensuring safety and functionality. With experience working in communities that value their distinctive character, we recognize the importance of lighting solutions that respect local regulations and community aesthetics.

As a resource for understanding lighting regulations, Bock Lighting emphasizes education about how proper lighting can enhance community character while meeting safety requirements. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Bethany's community-focused values and aesthetic priorities.

Conclusion

Bethany's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to maintaining its unique character while ensuring public safety and functionality. Property owners should carefully review these requirements, particularly when planning electronic message centers, illuminated signs, or special use properties.

By understanding and following these regulations, businesses and property owners can contribute to Bethany's vision of preserving its historical ambiance while appropriately lighting the community for safety and enjoyment.

When planning any lighting installation or modification, consultation with Bethany's Planning Department is recommended to ensure compliance with all current regulations and requirements.