Lighting Regulations in Chenoa, Illinois: Preserving Heritage Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Founded in 1856 by Matthew T. Scott, Chenoa, Illinois carries a rich historical character that blends Scott's original park-centered design with the architectural heritage typical of central Illinois towns from the 1830s. This unique small-town character is preserved not only through its buildings and layout but also through thoughtful regulations governing various aspects of community life—including lighting.

While Chenoa doesn't have comprehensive lighting ordinances, its targeted regulations reflect the community's commitment to maintaining its historical character while addressing modern needs. Let's explore the specific lighting regulations that help preserve Chenoa's distinctive ambiance.

Quick Reference Guide

• Streetlights: Must be placed at every intersection and spaced no more than 250 feet apart
• Sodium Vapor Specifications:
• Minor streets: 8,700 lumen fixtures at 25' height
• Major streets: 23,000 lumen fixtures at 30' height
• Signs: May be illuminated reasonably but without creating substantial glare
• Prohibited: Flashing signs, rotating beams, or lights resembling emergency signals
• Historic Preservation: City lighting fixtures protected from damage or defacement
• Exit Lighting: Red EXIT lights required in theaters and public meeting halls

Streetlight Requirements

Placement Standards

Chenoa has specific requirements for streetlight placement throughout the community:

• Intersection Requirements: A streetlight must be installed at every cross or tee intersection
• Cul-de-sacs: Lights required at the end of every cul-de-sac or eyebrow
• Spacing: Additional streetlights must be placed so they are never more than 250 feet apart

Technical Specifications

The sodium vapor lighting used throughout Chenoa is carefully specified based on street classification:

• Minor Streets and Frontage Roads:
• 8,700 lumen luminaires
• 25-foot mounting height
• Major and Collector Streets:
• 23,000 lumen luminaires
• 30-foot mounting height

Material and Installation Requirements

Pole materials and wiring methods are specifically regulated:

• Residential Zones (R-1): Streetlights must be affixed to ornamental concrete or aluminum poles
• Business/Commercial/Manufacturing Zones: Similar ornamental concrete or aluminum poles required
• Wiring Requirements: Underground wiring mandated in R-1 zones and business/commercial/manufacturing areas
• Private Development: All private streetlights in residential planned unit developments must meet city illuminance standards

Right-of-Way Considerations

All streetlights must be installed in either:

• Public easements, or
• Dedicated public right-of-way

Sign Illumination Regulations

General Sign Lighting Rules

Chenoa's sign regulations include several provisions regarding illumination:

• Signs may be lighted in a reasonable manner that makes them visible
• Lighting must not create substantial glare
• No sign may use flashing lights, sounds, or mechanical devices
• Unusual lighting or other means of animation are prohibited

Safety and Residential Protection

Several rules protect neighborhood character and public safety:

• No rotating beams or beacons are permitted
• No flashing illumination resembling emergency lights can be used with any sign
• Light from signs must not project onto residential property

Building-Specific Lighting Requirements

Public Assembly Areas

Theaters and public meeting halls have specific exit lighting requirements:

• Red lights illuminating the word "EXIT" must be kept burning over each exit
• This requirement applies to both regular and emergency exits
• Illumination must remain active whenever the venue is occupied by an audience or patrons

Service Buildings

Service buildings throughout Chenoa must:

• Be well lighted at all times of the day and night
• Comply with all applicable ordinances and statutes regarding electrical installations
• Include plans for electrical lighting as part of the application process

Home Occupation and Residential Considerations

For home-based businesses, Chenoa maintains specific standards to preserve residential character:

• Only one attached, non-illuminated sign is permitted
• The sign must not exceed one square foot in area
• No equipment or process may create glare or electrical interference visible outside the dwelling

Permit Requirements for Lighting Installation

Permit Process

Before installing or altering any electrical equipment (including lighting):

• A permit must be secured from the city
• Applications must be made in writing to the City Clerk
• Plans and specifications are required for new installations or extensive repairs/alterations

Fee Structure

Permit fees for lighting-related work in Chenoa are as follows:

• General electrical work (except signs and fixtures): $3.00
• Wiring for incandescent lighting and small motors: $1.50
• Wiring for arc lighting and projection equipment: $1.50 plus $0.10 per outlet
• Fixture hanging: $1.50
• Electric signs: $2.00

Protection of City Lighting Infrastructure

Chenoa places importance on protecting its lighting assets:

• It is unlawful to injure, mar, disfigure, deface or interfere with any property belonging to the city
• This specifically includes all decorative or ornamental street lighting fixtures
• Prior authorization from the city council is required before any interaction with these fixtures

Safety Considerations

Other regulations address the relationship between lighting and other infrastructure:

• Fire hydrants must not be located closer than ten feet from any light standard
• This ensures both access to hydrants and maintains their visibility

Supporting Chenoa's Lighting Vision

As a community with deep historical roots dating back to 1856, Chenoa's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to preserving its distinctive character while accommodating modern needs.

Architectural lighting manufacturers that understand the balance between historical preservation and modern functionality can serve as valuable resources for Chenoa residents. Lighting providers with experience in small-town Illinois settings can help property owners navigate regulations while enhancing the community's historic charm.

The best partners for Chenoa's lighting needs are those who appreciate the town's blend of Matthew T. Scott's original vision with practical, safety-oriented lighting standards. Manufacturers who prioritize community character over one-size-fits-all solutions will best serve Chenoa's unique needs.

Conclusion

While Chenoa's lighting regulations aren't extensive, they strategically address key areas that impact the community's character, safety, and functionality. From the ornamental streetlight poles that line the streets to the careful management of sign illumination, these standards help maintain Chenoa's distinctive small-town ambiance.

Property owners should pay particular attention to permit requirements before making electrical modifications and ensure any exterior lighting complies with the town's focus on reasonable illumination without excessive glare. By working within these guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to preserving the historical character that makes Chenoa special.

For specific questions about lighting compliance, the Chenoa City Clerk's office can provide guidance and clarification on permit requirements and applicable standards.