Lighting Regulations in Clark County, Kentucky: Balancing History with Modern Illumination Needs

Introduction

Clark County, Kentucky, has a rich historical tapestry that dates back to the late 18th century when forty Baptist families led by Capt. William Bush first settled the area in 1775. Named after Revolutionary War hero General George Rogers Clark, the county takes pride in its pioneer heritage, visible in historic settlements like Strode's Station and McGee's Station.

This blend of historical significance and natural beauty shapes the county's approach to development and community aesthetics. The gently rolling landscapes and Kentucky River views provide a picturesque backdrop that local regulations aim to preserve.

While Clark County's lighting regulations are relatively limited in scope, they reflect the community's desire to balance modern needs with historical character preservation.

Quick Reference Guide to Clark County Lighting Regulations

• Illuminated Signs: Must prevent light from crossing property lines
• Neon Lighting: Permitted only behind solid lettering for "halo" effects or when used indirectly
• Light Pole Signs: Limited to two per road frontage with 7-foot minimum clearance
• Electronic Displays: Must remain static for at least 8 seconds with specific transition requirements
• Commercial Lighting: Sexually oriented businesses require minimum 5 foot-candle illumination
• Street Lighting: Required for subdivisions with specific installation protocols
• Light Pollution: Regulations aim to reduce artificial light glare throughout the county

Sign Illumination Requirements

Preventing Light Trespass

Clark County places importance on preventing light nuisance to neighboring properties. Illuminated signs must be positioned to prevent all direct rays of light from shining beyond the property lines of the lot where the sign is located.

This requirement helps maintain the peaceful character of residential areas while still allowing businesses to use illuminated signage effectively.

Types of Illuminated Signs

The county code defines three distinct types of illuminated signs:

• Directly Illuminated: Signs with an unshielded light source visible as part of the sign
• Indirectly Illuminated: Signs where the light source projects light onto the exterior sign surface
• Internally Illuminated: Signs with a light source within the sign, behind transparent or translucent materials

Neon Lighting Restrictions

Clark County has specific limitations on neon and lighted tubing:

• Neon signs are not generally permitted
• Exceptions include when neon is used behind solid lettering to create a "halo" effect
• Neon may also be used indirectly in certain circumstances
• Neon lighting cannot be used to outline buildings, structures, or ornamental features

These restrictions help maintain the county's historical aesthetic while still allowing modern lighting technologies when used appropriately.

Light Pole Signs

Size and Placement Regulations

Light pole signs represent a specific category with clear guidelines:

• Limited to 12 square feet maximum size
• Must be attached to light poles owned by the property/business owner
• Maximum of two light pole signs per road frontage
• Must maintain a minimum ground clearance of 7 feet

Zoning Considerations

Not all areas permit light pole signs:

• Approved as conditional uses in B-3 and B-4 Zoning Districts
• Explicitly prohibited in I-1 and I-2 Industrial Zones

Business owners should consult with county planning officials before installing light pole signs to ensure compliance with these zoning requirements.

Electronic Display Regulations

Billboard Display Requirements

For billboards featuring electronic message displays, Clark County maintains specific operational requirements:

• Messages must remain static for at least 8 seconds
• Transitions between messages must occur in less than 2 seconds
• Displays cannot blink, scroll, or contain animation or video
• Systems must be programmed to freeze in a static display if a malfunction occurs

Interstate Signage Limitations

The county code specifically states that interstate signs shall not have an electronic message display system. This restriction helps maintain visual clarity along highway corridors.

Commercial Lighting Standards

Requirements for Specific Businesses

While Clark County doesn't provide comprehensive commercial lighting standards, specific businesses face more detailed requirements:

• Sexually oriented businesses must:
• Submit lighting fixture plans with license applications
• Maintain overhead lighting with minimum illumination of 5 foot-candles measured at floor level
• Ensure this illumination level whenever patrons are present

Home Occupation Considerations

For home-based businesses, lighting impact on neighborhoods is specifically addressed:

• Home occupations must not adversely affect neighborhoods through excessive light flashes or glare
• This requirement balances entrepreneurship opportunities with residential quality of life

Street and Subdivision Lighting

Developer Requirements

Clark County requires proper illumination of new developments:

• Every subdivision must include a satisfactory street and walkway lighting system
• Within city limits, lights are installed at the city's expense
• Locations must be predetermined by Kentucky Utilities and approved by the county
• Underground service to streetlights must be provided at the developer's expense

These requirements ensure safe, well-lit community spaces while clarifying cost responsibilities between developers and the city.

Supporting Clark County's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique balance that communities like Clark County strive to achieve between preserving historical character and meeting modern illumination needs.

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with experience in historically sensitive communities, Bock appreciates Clark County's commitment to reducing artificial light glare while providing appropriate illumination for safety and functionality.

We take pride in serving as an educational resource to help property owners and businesses understand and comply with local lighting regulations. Our experience with projects that respect community character aligns with Clark County's vision for thoughtful development that honors its pioneering heritage.

Bock's regional presence enables us to better understand the architectural styles and lighting needs specific to communities in Kentucky and throughout the Midwest, supporting the preservation of Clark County's unique character for future generations.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Light Trespass

One consistent theme in Clark County's lighting regulations is the prevention of light trespass onto neighboring properties. When installing outdoor lighting, ensure fixtures are properly shielded and aimed to keep light within your property boundaries.

Planning for New Developments

Developers should account for lighting requirements early in the planning process:

• Budget for underground service to streetlights
• Coordinate with Kentucky Utilities on light placement
• Incorporate county lighting standards into overall development plans

Business Sign Considerations

Business owners should carefully review illuminated sign regulations before installation:

• Consider indirect illumination methods for signs
• Evaluate if proposed electronic displays meet timing and transition requirements
• Ensure neon elements comply with "halo effect" or indirect use restrictions

Conclusion

Clark County's lighting regulations, while not comprehensive, reflect the community's dedication to preserving its historical character while accommodating modern needs. The focus on preventing light trespass, regulating electronic displays, and managing illuminated signage demonstrates a thoughtful approach to community aesthetics.

Property owners, businesses, and developers should consult with county officials when planning lighting installations to ensure compliance with these regulations. By working together, Clark County can maintain its charming historical atmosphere while providing the illumination necessary for safety and functionality in the 21st century.