Lighting Regulations in Bexley, Ohio: Preserving Historic Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in central Ohio, Bexley has a rich architectural heritage dating back to its founding in 1908. The merger of Bullit Park, with its affluent Columbus residents' country estates, and Pleasant Ridge, a Lutheran community centered around Capital University, created a city with distinctive character that continues to this day.

As the only municipality in the United States designated as an arboretum, Bexley's commitment to natural beauty and aesthetic appeal is evident in many aspects of city management—including its approach to exterior lighting.

The city's lighting regulations reflect a careful balance between modern needs and historical preservation, ensuring that illumination enhances rather than detracts from Bexley's unique charm.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's a summary of Bexley's most important lighting regulations:

• Height Restrictions:
• Standard parking lot light fixtures: maximum 18 feet above grade
• Fixtures within 25 feet of residential districts: maximum 14 feet above grade
• Light Control Requirements:
• Cut-off type fixtures required to limit glare
• Lighting must be directed away from neighboring properties, streets, and night sky
• Off-street parking illumination limited to 0.5 foot candles at surface grade within 10 feet of property lines
• Permits:
• Required for exterior area lighting in residential districts (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-6, R-12, R-24)
• Prohibitions:
• No backlit awnings
• No flashing or intermittently lighted signs
• No illumination of temporary signs

Residential Lighting Standards

Permit Requirements

Bexley takes residential lighting seriously. A permit is required before installing exterior area lighting in R-1, R-2, R-3, R-6, R-12 and R-24 Residential Districts. This includes high-intensity discharge lights, incandescent lights, and private area lights (including those offered by Columbus Southern Power Company).

Neighborhood Consideration

The intent of Bexley's residential lighting regulations is clear: to prohibit exterior lighting that shines, glares, reflects, or directs brightness in ways that could disturb neighbors' comfort or repose.

Neighbor Recourse Process

If you believe a neighbor's lighting is affecting your property:

• You may file an objection with the Board
• A hearing will be scheduled at the next Board meeting
• Both the light owner and objecting party must be present
• The Board may take action including prohibiting continued use of the lights
• All residents must comply with Board decisions

Commercial and Parking Area Lighting

Height and Fixture Regulations

Bexley maintains strict standards for commercial lighting to preserve the city's character:

• Standard parking lots: Light fixtures cannot exceed 18 feet above grade
• Near residential areas: Light fixtures within 25 feet of residential districts cannot exceed 14 feet above grade
• All lighting must use cut-off fixtures to prevent light pollution

Light Trespass Prevention

The regulations specifically address light trespass with technical specifications:

• Parking area lighting cannot exceed 0.5 foot candles at surface grade within 10 feet from property lines
• All exterior area lights must be arranged and shielded to reflect light away from neighboring properties

Shared Parking Considerations

For businesses with shared parking arrangements, regulations require "safe, convenient walking between uses and parking, including safe, well-marked pedestrian crossings, signage, and adequate lighting."

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Swimming Pool Lighting

If you have a private swimming pool with a depth exceeding 18 inches, specific regulations apply:

• All lights must be installed, arranged, and shaded to prevent any light from shining on adjoining premises
• This requirement helps maintain privacy and prevent light nuisance between neighbors

Wind Energy Systems

For those with wind energy conversion systems, lighting requirements are minimal:

• Lighting shall be limited only to what is required by the Federal Aviation Administration
• This prevents unnecessary illumination while ensuring safety compliance

Signage Illumination

Bexley maintains strict control over sign lighting:

• Prohibited: Flashing or intermittently lighted signs
• Prohibited: Any illumination on temporary signs
• Prohibited: Reflective materials on temporary signs
• Prohibited: Backlit awnings in commercial areas

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Tips

When planning exterior lighting for your Bexley property, consider these practical steps:

• Research before installing: Check if your lighting project requires a permit
• Choose appropriate fixtures: Ensure all exterior lighting uses cut-off type fixtures
• Point lights downward: Direct illumination away from neighboring properties and the night sky
• Consider fixture height: Remember the 18-foot standard maximum and 14-foot requirement near residential areas
• Measure light levels: Ensure lighting doesn't exceed 0.5 foot candles within 10 feet of property lines

Landscape Considerations

Bexley's arboretum status means trees are a cherished part of the city landscape:

• Property owners must prune trees and shrubs to ensure they don't obstruct or shade street lights
• This maintains both safety and the effectiveness of public lighting

Supporting Bexley's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Bexley's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing appropriate modern technology.

As a regional manufacturer, Bock understands the unique challenges of balancing safety and functionality with the preservation of historic aesthetics that make communities like Bexley special.

Our knowledge of architectural lighting for early 20th-century styles aligns with Bexley's notable collection of historic homes. We appreciate the city's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that maintain its distinctive character while providing adequate illumination.

Bock serves as a resource for communities and property owners navigating lighting regulations, offering expertise without pushing specific products. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices parallels Bexley's focus on preservation and community values.

Conclusion

Bexley's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to preserving its unique character while ensuring properly illuminated spaces for safety and functionality.

From residential neighborhoods to commercial districts, these requirements help maintain the aesthetic appeal that makes Bexley special while providing clear standards for property owners.

By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to the continued charm and livability of this distinctive community—the only municipality in the United States designated as an arboretum.

Whether renovating a historic property or developing a new commercial space, thoughtful lighting choices help preserve Bexley's special character for future generations to enjoy.