Lighting Regulations in Centerville, Indiana: Preserving Historical Character While Meeting Modern Standards

Introduction

Nestled in Wayne County, Centerville, Indiana, stands as a testament to our nation's rich architectural heritage. Founded in 1814 by Quaker settlers, this charming town's historical significance is evidenced by its prominent listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The Centerville Historic District showcases numerous well-preserved buildings, including the Jacob Julian House, reflecting generations of careful preservation efforts.

As a former county seat and important stop along the National Road, Centerville has always balanced honoring its past while addressing contemporary needs. This balance extends to the town's approach to lighting - an essential element that impacts both functionality and aesthetics in this historic community.

Quick Reference Guide: Centerville Lighting Regulations

Before diving into details, here's a snapshot of key lighting requirements in Centerville:

• Residential Lighting Load Requirements: 3 watts per square foot minimum
• Reflection Requirements: Lighting must be arranged to reflect away from residential properties
• Lighting Outlets: Required in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, hallways, stairways, garages, and entrances
• Street Light Protection: Trees must be trimmed to prevent obstruction of street lights
• Swimming Pool & Fountain Lighting: Must comply with specific NEC codes

Residential Lighting Requirements

Lighting Load Calculations

The National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements incorporated into Centerville's regulations establish clear standards for residential lighting:

• Minimum Load Requirement: Not less than 3 watts per square foot for dwelling units
• Calculation Method: Based on outside dimensions of the dwelling
• Excluded Areas: Open porches, garages, and unused/unfinished spaces (unless adaptable for future use)
• Circuit Distribution: Load must be apportioned evenly among branch circuits

Practical Application

For a typical 1,000 square foot home in Centerville, this translates to:

• Total lighting load requirement: 3,000 watts (1,000 sq. ft. × 3 watts)
• Requires approximately two circuits for the lighting load
• Per NEC Table 220-11, the first 3,000 watts must be computed at 100%

Required Lighting Outlets

Centerville regulations specify mandatory lighting outlet locations:

• Main Living Areas: At least one wall switch-controlled lighting outlet in every habitable room
• Safety Areas: Required in bathrooms, hallways, and stairways
• Access Points: Required in attached garages and at outdoor entrances
• Utility Spaces: Required in attics, underfloor spaces, utility rooms, and basements used for storage or containing equipment needing service

Commercial and Mixed-Use Property Lighting

Light Positioning Requirements

For commercial properties in Centerville, particularly those adjacent to residential areas:

• Reflection Control: Lighting facilities must be arranged to reflect away from property that is residentially zoned or used
• This requirement helps maintain quality of life for residents while allowing for necessary commercial lighting

Street Lighting Standards and Protections

Municipal Street Lighting Service

Centerville provides municipal street lighting service with specific rates:

• 100 watt high pressure sodium: $5.50 per lamp per month
• 150 watt high pressure sodium: $5.50 per lamp per month
• 175 watt mercury vapor: $5.50 per lamp per month
• 250 watt high pressure sodium: $5.50 per lamp per month
• 400 watt mercury vapor: $5.50 per lamp per month

Protecting Street Light Functionality

To ensure street lighting effectiveness, Centerville has specific regulations regarding obstructions:

• Prohibited Actions: No person shall erect or maintain any sign, post, awning or shade tree that obstructs street lights
• Tree Planting Distance: Shade trees shall not be planted nearer than ten feet to street crossings or alley openings
• Tree Trimming Requirements:
• Branches extending over sidewalks must be at least 10 feet above the sidewalk
• Branches extending over streets must be at least 14 feet above the street grade

Special Installation Requirements

Swimming Pool and Fountain Lighting

Centerville requires compliance with specific NEC codes for water-related lighting:

• Swimming Pools:
• NEC 680-6: Lighting fixtures (wet-niche)
• NEC 680-20: Underwater lighting fixtures (wet-niche)
• NEC 680-31: Storable swimming pools
• Fountains:
• NEC 680-41(a): Supplying fountain equipment
• NEC 680-50: All power supply connected equipment

These specialized requirements ensure safety in areas where water and electricity must coexist.

Security Lighting Options

Centerville offers security lighting service with the following rates:

• 175 watt mercury vapor: $8.25 per lamp per month
• 250 watt high pressure sodium: $9.25 per lamp per month
• 400 watt mercury vapor: $10.80 per lamp per month

These options provide property owners with standardized solutions for security needs.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Considerations for Homeowners

When planning lighting for your Centerville property, remember:

• Historical Sensitivity: Consider fixtures that complement Centerville's historic character
• Residential Impact: Position outdoor lighting to minimize spillover into neighboring properties
• Proper Planning: Calculate lighting loads correctly during renovations or new construction (3 watts per square foot)
• Mandatory Outlets: Ensure all required spaces have appropriate lighting outlets
• Tree Maintenance: Regularly trim trees that might obstruct street lights

Commercial Property Considerations

Business owners should be particularly mindful of:

• Light Direction: Arrange lighting to reflect away from residential areas
• Historical Context: Choose fixtures that enhance rather than detract from Centerville's historic aesthetic
• Street Light Clearance: Ensure signs, awnings, and landscaping don't obstruct municipal lighting

Supporting Centerville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique challenges faced by communities like Centerville that balance historical preservation with modern needs. Our experience working with historic districts throughout the Midwest has given us a deep appreciation for Centerville's commitment to maintaining its architectural heritage.

We share Centerville's values regarding historical preservation and community character. Our team recognizes that appropriate lighting solutions must respect the town's unique aesthetic while meeting contemporary safety and efficiency standards.

As a regional manufacturer with extensive experience in historically sensitive communities, we're committed to serving as an educational resource on lighting regulations rather than just a product provider. Our understanding of the balance Centerville seeks between modern functionality and historic character positions us as a partner in preservation efforts.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns perfectly with Centerville's vision for thoughtful development that honors its past while embracing the future.

Conclusion

Centerville's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By following these established guidelines, property owners contribute to maintaining the town's unique charm that has endured since its founding in 1814.

The balance of practical requirements with aesthetic considerations demonstrates Centerville's thoughtful approach to development. As lighting technology continues to evolve, these standards help ensure that modern improvements enhance rather than detract from the town's distinctive character.

Property owners with specific questions about lighting compliance should consult with local officials to ensure full compliance with current requirements.