Lighting Regulations in Concord Township, Michigan: Preserving Rural Character Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Nestled in southern Michigan, Concord Township traces its roots back to the early 1830s when pioneers William Van Fossen and Thomas McGee first settled the area. The establishment of a flour mill in 1837 became the economic cornerstone that spurred the community's growth, leading to the development of a business district along Main Street.

Today, the Concord Village Historic District stands as a testament to the township's commitment to preserving its rich architectural heritage. The well-preserved 19th-century buildings contribute significantly to the area's historical character and charm.

This dedication to historical preservation and aesthetic continuity naturally extends to the township's approach to exterior lighting. The lighting regulations aim to maintain Concord's historical ambiance while preventing light pollution that could detract from the rural night sky.

Quick Reference Guide

For property owners and developers in Concord Township, here are the key lighting requirements:

• All exterior lighting must be hooded or shielded to deflect light away from adjacent properties
• Sign illumination must be electrical only and shielded from neighboring properties
• Flashing or moving lights are prohibited with limited exceptions
• Sign luminance cannot exceed one foot candle measured at four feet perpendicular to any surface
• Residential lighting cannot direct light onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-way

Exterior Lighting Requirements

General Standards

Concord Township's regulations focus primarily on preventing light trespass onto neighboring properties. The core requirement is straightforward:

• All exterior lighting, including illuminated signs, must be erected and hooded or shielded to deflect light away from adjacent property

This requirement appears multiple times throughout the township's regulations, emphasizing its importance to the community's lighting standards.

Commercial District Considerations

The Commercial District (C) regulations specifically mention preventing uses that would create "glare." This aligns with the township's overall approach to maintain its aesthetic character while providing adequate lighting for safety and functionality.

Special Processes

For maintenance, construction, or industrial processes:

• Arc welding, acetylene torch cutting, or similar processes causing glare must be performed behind:
• Solid walls or frosted glass
• At least 15 feet high (measured from adjacent ground level)

Sign Illumination Standards

Sign lighting requirements are more detailed than general exterior lighting regulations:

Illumination Methods

• Only electrical illumination is permitted
• All wiring must satisfy Township Electrical Code requirements
• Light must be shielded at its source to prevent shine on:
• Adjacent properties
• Public streets

Prohibited Lighting Types

• Flashing, rotating, or moving lights are prohibited
• Exception: Time and temperature signs

Light Intensity and Design

• Maximum luminance: one foot candle (measured at four feet perpendicular to any surface)
• Recommended design: dark backgrounds with lighter colored message units for internally illuminated signs

Residential District Restrictions

• Signs in residential districts may not contain any internal lighting
• Yard signs of any nature are expressly prohibited in residential districts

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Self-Service Storage Facilities

Self-storage facilities have specific lighting regulations:

• Outdoor lights must be shielded to direct light and glare only onto storage buildings
• Lighting may be of sufficient intensity to discourage vandalism and theft
• Light and glare must be deflected, shaded, and focused away from adjoining property

Parking Areas

For off-street parking areas:

• Lighting fixtures must be arranged to reflect light away from:
• Adjoining residential premises
• Institutional premises
• Public roadways

Bed and Breakfast Establishments

Applications for bed and breakfast establishments must include:

• A site plan showing proposed lighting
• Compliance with residential district lighting restrictions
• No lighting that flashes, rotates, or directs light onto adjacent property or public right-of-way

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When installing or updating exterior lighting on your property, remember:

• The primary focus is preventing light from spilling onto neighboring properties
• Shielding and proper direction of light fixtures is essential
• Different standards apply based on your property's zoning district
• Sign illumination has its own specific set of requirements

Application Requirements

For new developments or changes requiring township approval:

• Site plans must include exterior lighting locations and illumination patterns
• Performance guarantees may be required for lighting improvements
• Lighting that constitutes a nuisance to occupants of adjacent property by brightness may be prohibited

Supporting Concord Township's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Concord Township's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing necessary modern technology.

With deep understanding of regional architectural styles, Bock appreciates the balance Concord Township seeks between safety, functionality, and preservation of its rural and historic character.

Our expertise can help maintain the character of Concord's historic areas through lighting solutions that respect both the letter and spirit of local regulations. As a regional partner, we focus on supporting communities like Concord Township in their efforts to maintain their distinctive character and preserve their night skies.

Our commitment extends beyond products to community education about responsible lighting practices that align with Concord's vision for thoughtful development that honors its heritage.

Conclusion

Concord Township's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By focusing primarily on preventing light trespass onto neighboring properties, the regulations strike a balance between modern lighting needs and the preservation of rural ambiance.

Property owners should pay particular attention to shielding requirements and direction of light, especially when illuminating signs or commercial areas. As the township continues to evolve while honoring its rich history, thoughtful lighting practices will remain an important part of maintaining Concord's distinctive character.

By understanding and adhering to these lighting regulations, residents and businesses can contribute to preserving Concord Township's historical integrity and rural charm for future generations.