Lighting Regulations in Colman, South Dakota: A Small Town Approach to Public Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in eastern South Dakota with just over 600 residents, Colman embraces its small-town charm while working toward thoughtful development. Founded in the late 19th century during the expansion of railroads and settlement in the Midwest, Colman maintains its traditional character while looking toward the future.

Unlike larger municipalities with extensive lighting codes, Colman takes a streamlined approach to lighting regulations. This approach aligns with the town's commitment to balancing growth with preservation of its rural aesthetic and community-focused environment.

Quick Reference Guide

Colman's lighting regulations focus primarily on municipal oversight rather than detailed technical specifications:

• Municipal Authority: The mayor supervises lighting of streets, alleys, and public buildings
• Public Infrastructure: The municipality may erect and regulate street lighting equipment
• Event Requirements: Special events must provide appropriate and safe lighting based on crowd size
• Development Flexibility: Installation of lighting in district areas is generally permitted

Municipal Authority and Street Lighting

Mayoral Oversight

Colman's approach to lighting begins with leadership at the top. According to municipal code, the mayor shall supervise the "lighting of the streets, alleys, and public buildings of the municipality." This centralized oversight ensures consistent management of public lighting throughout the town.

Infrastructure Development

The town maintains statutory authority to develop and improve its lighting infrastructure. Specifically, the municipality may "erect equipment for street lighting in and otherwise improve...roads, streets, alleys, sidewalks, and public grounds."

Regulatory Authority

Beyond installation, Colman's municipal government has the authority to "regulate the making of openings and connections therein and the erection of lights" on public ways and grounds as provided in South Dakota Codified Law § 9-45-1. This provides the legal framework for managing public lighting infrastructure.

District Development and Lighting

Permitted Installations

For those developing property within designated district areas, Colman's regulations explicitly state that "Construction or installation of ... lighting... in the district area" is permitted. This provision supports development while maintaining municipal oversight.

Community Growth Focus

This permissive approach to lighting installations aligns with Colman's broader development goals. The Colman Economic Development Corporation actively works to promote growth, expand opportunities, and enhance the local economy—efforts that require practical infrastructure development including appropriate lighting.

Special Event Lighting Requirements

Safety First Approach

When hosting public events or activities in Colman, organizers face specific obligations regarding illumination. The municipal code requires that "The applicant shall provide appropriate and safe facilities for the activity or event, including such lighting...as may be warranted by the estimated crowd size or as otherwise required by the appropriate municipal authorities."

Scalable Requirements

This regulation takes a practical approach by scaling lighting requirements to the nature and size of the event. Larger gatherings naturally require more comprehensive lighting solutions to ensure public safety.

Municipal Guidance

The provision empowers "appropriate municipal authorities" to determine specific lighting needs for events. Event organizers should consult with town officials during the planning process to ensure compliance with safety expectations.

What Property Owners Should Know

Limited Technical Specifications

Unlike larger cities with detailed lighting codes, Colman does not specify technical requirements such as:

• Minimum Color Rendering Index (CRI)
• Maximum light trespass measurements
• Specific fixture types or shielding requirements
• Precise illumination levels

Focus on Functionality and Safety

In the absence of detailed technical specifications, property owners should focus on lighting that:

• Provides adequate illumination for safe navigation
• Respects neighboring properties
• Supports the town's traditional aesthetic
• Fulfills practical needs while avoiding excessive brightness

Consultation Recommended

When undertaking significant lighting projects, property owners are encouraged to consult with municipal officials. This proactive approach ensures alignment with community expectations and compliance with any applicable general regulations.

Supporting Colman's Lighting Vision

Small Town Values, Forward-Looking Solutions

Bock Lighting understands the unique character of small towns like Colman. With roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate communities that balance traditional values with practical development needs.

Regional Understanding

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with extensive experience in communities similar to Colman, Bock Lighting recognizes the importance of lighting solutions that respect local character while providing modern functionality.

Community Resources

While Colman's lighting regulations are limited in technical specificity, our team can serve as a resource for property owners seeking to make thoughtful lighting choices that align with the town's aesthetic and functional priorities.

Sustainable Practices

We share Colman's commitment to sustainable growth and can provide guidance on energy-efficient lighting options that support both development goals and environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

Colman's approach to lighting regulations reflects its character as a small, close-knit community with an eye toward practical development. Rather than imposing detailed technical specifications, the town focuses on clear lines of authority and basic safety requirements.

This streamlined regulatory environment provides flexibility for property owners while maintaining municipal oversight through the mayor's supervision of public lighting and the authority to regulate connections and installations.

As Colman continues to grow through the efforts of its Economic Development Corporation, thoughtful lighting choices will play an important role in maintaining the town's traditional charm while supporting its development vision.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property or event in Colman, contacting municipal officials remains the most reliable approach to ensuring compliance with local expectations.