Lighting Regulations in Campbell County, Kentucky: Balancing Growth While Preserving Community Character

Introduction: Campbell County's Evolution and Lighting Approach

Campbell County, Kentucky, established in 1794 as the Commonwealth's 19th county, carries a rich historical legacy that shapes its modern development policies. Named after John Campbell, an Irish immigrant who helped draft Kentucky's constitution, the county has always maintained a balance between growth and preservation of its historical character.

From its early days with a log courthouse (later replaced by a brick building in 1815) to the development of vibrant communities like Newport, Bellevue, Cold Spring, and Dayton, Campbell County has consistently demonstrated a commitment to thoughtful infrastructure development.

This careful approach extends to the county's lighting regulations, which aim to minimize light pollution and nuisance while supporting safety and modern needs across residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Quick Reference Guide: Campbell County Lighting Requirements

Key Lighting Regulations:

• No glare permitted onto streets, roads, highways, or adjacent properties (applies to most zones)
• Swimming pool lighting must direct glare away from adjacent properties
• Parking area lighting must direct light away from residential zones
• Sign illumination generally limited to concealed light sources
• Sexually oriented businesses require minimum 20 lumens lighting at 36" above floor level
• Cellular towers shall not be illuminated except as required by FAA
• Industrial activities producing glare must contain it within property boundaries

Glare Control: The Foundation of Campbell County's Lighting Approach

Consistent Cross-Zone Requirements

One of the most consistent regulations throughout Campbell County's zoning code is the prohibition of lighting that causes glare beyond property boundaries. Nearly every zone includes some variation of:

"No lighting shall be permitted which would glare from this zone onto any street, road, highway, deeded right-of-way, or into any adjacent property."

This fundamental principle applies to residential, commercial, and industrial areas alike, underscoring the county's commitment to preventing light trespass and nuisance.

Respecting Neighboring Properties

The consistency of this regulation across multiple zones reflects Campbell County's understanding that inappropriate lighting doesn't just affect aesthetics – it can significantly impact quality of life and property enjoyment for residents.

By setting clear boundaries on light trespass, the regulations help maintain peaceful coexistence between different property types while still allowing for appropriate illumination.

Recreational Lighting Requirements

Swimming Pool Illumination Standards

Both private and public swimming pools in Campbell County must follow specific lighting directives:

• Glare control required: "Glare from lights used to illuminate the swimming pool area shall be directed away from adjacent properties"
• Applies equally to private, public, semi-public, and commercial swimming pools
• Safety balanced with consideration for neighboring properties

Other Recreational Areas

While the code doesn't provide extensive detail on other recreational lighting, the general glare prohibition would apply to all outdoor recreational areas, including:

• Sports fields
• Tennis/basketball courts
• Outdoor gathering spaces
• Community parks

Commercial and Parking Area Lighting

Parking Lot Requirements

Businesses and developments with parking areas must adhere to specific lighting conditions:

• Direction control: "Any lighting used to illuminate off-street parking areas shall be directed away from property in any residential zone in such a way as not to create a nuisance"
• Documentation required: Plans for all parking facilities must show the "location of lighting facilities"
• Loading area requirements: Similar direction control requirements apply to off-street loading/unloading areas

Commercial Operation Lighting Controls

For commercial operations that may produce glare:

• Activities must be conducted so that glare "is not perceptible at any lot line"
• Detailed plans for glare elimination may be required before building permit issuance
• Any exterior illumination must "direct light away from adjoining zones"

Signage Illumination: Class-Based Requirements

Campbell County regulates sign lighting based on sign classification, balancing business needs with community aesthetics.

Sign Classes and Illumination Rules

• Class 2 Signs: No illumination permitted
• Class 3 Signs:
• May be illuminated from concealed light sources only
• No flashing, glaring or animated lighting
• Class 4 Signs: Illumination permitted only from concealed light sources
• Class 8 Signs:
• Illumination only from concealed light sources
• Neither flashing nor animated

Time Restrictions and Special Categories

• Real Estate Signs & Bulletin Boards:
• May use concealed lighting only
• Illumination must end by 10:00 p.m.
• Industrial Park Identification Signs:
• Concealed light sources only
• No illumination between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
• No flashing or animated lighting

Concealed Lighting Definition

The code specifically defines concealed lighting as: "An artificial light source intended to illuminate the face of a sign, the direct source of which is shielded from public view and surrounding properties."

Specialty Use Lighting Requirements

Cellular Tower Illumination

Cellular infrastructure has specific lighting limitations:

• General prohibition: "Cellular antenna towers shall not be lit, except as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)"
• Height restrictions in residential zones: Towers limited to heights that don't require FAA lighting
• Small cell towers: Not illuminated except when required by state/federal regulations or when illumination is part of stealth technology (like street light pole designs)

Sexually Oriented Businesses

These establishments have specific illumination requirements:

• Minimum light levels: At least 20 lumens at 36" above floor level throughout public areas
• Operational requirements: At least 90% of required lighting must be working during business hours
• Documentation: Schematic lighting plans required for entertainment areas

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Zone's Requirements

Campbell County's lighting regulations vary slightly by zone, but generally maintain consistent principles of:

• Preventing light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Controlling glare that may affect public roadways
• Limiting nuisance from commercial operations
• Preserving the aesthetic character of communities

Planning for Compliance

When developing lighting plans for your property:

• Check your specific zone: While many requirements are consistent, some zones have unique provisions
• Focus on direction control: Nearly all regulations emphasize controlling where light is directed
• Consider neighbors: The spirit of the regulations is to prevent your lighting from negatively impacting others
• Seek professional guidance: For complex commercial developments, professional lighting design can help ensure compliance

Supporting Campbell County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with community character preservation. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate Campbell County's approach to lighting regulations that respect both property rights and community needs.

Campbell County's emphasis on preventing glare and light trespass while allowing appropriate illumination for safety and functionality aligns with our philosophy of responsible lighting design. Our experience with projects that respect community character and local regulations positions us as a resource for property owners seeking to enhance their lighting while complying with county requirements.

We're committed to supporting Campbell County's communities through education about lighting regulations and sustainable lighting practices. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs allows us to serve as a partner in preserving the county's unique character across its diverse communities from Newport to Cold Spring.

Conclusion

Campbell County's lighting regulations reflect its historical commitment to balancing progress with preservation. From its founding in 1794 to today, the county has developed thoughtful approaches to infrastructure that respect both individual needs and community character.

The lighting requirements emphasize preventing nuisance and glare while allowing property owners flexibility in how they illuminate their spaces. By focusing primarily on the effects lighting has on neighboring properties rather than prescribing specific technical details, Campbell County's approach provides practical guidelines that preserve community harmony.

Whether you're a homeowner installing pool lighting, a business owner developing signage, or a developer planning a new project, understanding and following these regulations helps maintain Campbell County's character while meeting your illumination needs.