Lighting Regulations in Claremore, Oklahoma: Balancing Heritage and Modern Needs

Nestled in northeastern Oklahoma, Claremore embraces its rich historical heritage while meeting the lighting needs of a growing community. From its beginnings as part of the Cherokee Nation's Cooweescoowee District to its development along Route 66, Claremore's character continues to influence its approach to urban planning, including lighting regulations.

As property owners in this historically significant city, understanding the specific lighting requirements helps maintain Claremore's unique character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide

• Outdoor Area Lighting (OAL):
• Monthly rate: $6.50 per 50 watt LED lamp on existing city-owned poles
• Available for private property illumination only
• Not permitted for public street/highway lighting
• Minimum 2-year contract required
• Parking Area Lighting:
• Must be adequate while directing light away from residential properties
• Multifamily developments near single-family areas require shielded lighting
• Light sources must not be visible from adjacent properties
• Vegetation Requirements:
• Property owners must trim vegetation that blocks public lighting

Outdoor Area Lighting Program

Availability and Application

Claremore offers a specific Outdoor Area Lighting (OAL) program for property owners seeking dusk-to-dawn illumination. This service is available year-round to electrical consumers but comes with specific parameters:

• Available only when service can be provided from existing secondary distribution lines
• Additional facilities required will be at the customer's expense
• Not available for lighting public streets or highways
• Requires a minimum two-year contract with the city

Rates and Installation

The city provides straightforward pricing for its outdoor lighting services:

• Lighting unit mounted on existing city-owned pole: $6.50 per 50 watt LED lamp
• For private streets within city limits or areas outside city limits but within city electrical service areas:
• Standard lighting (matching city street lights): $10.31
• Decorative lighting: $15.00

Maintenance Responsibilities

Understanding maintenance responsibilities is crucial for property owners:

• The city is responsible for electrical power, light bulb maintenance, and ballast replacement only
• Property owners, developers, or homeowners' associations are responsible for maintenance and replacement of light fixtures, light heads, globes, and poles

Parking Area Lighting Requirements

General Standards

Claremore's code addresses lighting requirements for parking areas to ensure both safety and neighborhood compatibility:

• Lighting must be adequate for safety purposes
• Fixtures must be arranged to direct light away from adjoining residential properties

Special Requirements for Multifamily Developments

When multifamily developments are located adjacent to single-family residential areas, additional lighting restrictions apply:

• Lighting must have minimal impact on abutting properties
• All lights must be shielded or oriented to prevent light source visibility from neighboring properties
• Light sources must not shine onto any abutting property or right-of-way

These measures ensure that necessary lighting for safety doesn't negatively impact the quality of life in adjacent residential areas.

Property Owner Responsibilities

Vegetation Management

Property owners in Claremore have specific responsibilities related to lighting:

• Vegetation must be trimmed so it does not obstruct light from public lights to adjacent streets, paths, and sidewalks
• Trees that block light from street lamps may be deemed detrimental to public welfare
• The City Urban Forester can identify problematic vegetation that obstructs lighting

Protection of Lighting Infrastructure

The city code prohibits actions that might damage lighting infrastructure:

• It is unlawful to cut or injure ropes, wires, or appliances attached to electric light works
• Residents cannot place advertising on street-lighting poles
• It is prohibited to throw objects at electric lights or lighting property

Special Applications

Construction Site Lighting

For construction projects in Claremore:

• Contractors must maintain suitable and sufficient lighting to prevent accidents

Building Moving Operations

When relocating structures on public rights-of-way after dark:

• Buildings must have at least six continuously burning lights
• One light must be placed at each corner of the structure
• One light must be placed on each side at midpoint of the structure's length

Antenna Installations

For antenna and support structures:

• Continuous, blinking, or strobe lighting is not permitted unless required by the Federal Aviation Administration

Supporting Claremore's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with historical preservation in communities like Claremore. As a manufacturer with deep appreciation for regional architectural styles, we recognize how Claremore's unique heritage—from its Cherokee Nation origins to its Route 66 character—influences its approach to lighting.

Our team appreciates Claremore's efforts to maintain the aesthetic qualities that make it special while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and functionality. We're committed to serving as an educational resource on lighting regulations, helping property owners navigate requirements while preserving community character.

Bock Lighting shares Claremore's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices. Our experience with projects that respect community character makes us a valuable partner for those seeking to enhance their properties while honoring local standards and the city's historical significance.

Conclusion

Claremore's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to balancing modern needs with its rich historical character. While the city's lighting code is not as extensive as some municipalities, it provides clear guidance on key areas including outdoor lighting services, parking area illumination, and property owner responsibilities.

Understanding these requirements helps property owners contribute to a community that honors its Cherokee heritage and Route 66 history while providing safe, functional lighting for residents and visitors. By following these guidelines, you can help maintain the distinctive character that makes Claremore a special place to live and work.