Lighting Regulations in Conway, North Carolina: A Guide to Limited but Important Requirements

Introduction

Conway, North Carolina, a charming small town with a population of just 752 residents as of the 2020 Census, takes a minimalist approach to lighting regulations. While lacking comprehensive lighting codes found in larger municipalities, Conway maintains select regulations that reflect its commitment to safety, community character, and quality of life.

The town's approach to lighting aligns with its broader mission of balancing growth with preservation of its small-town atmosphere. Conway's demographic diversity and commitment to being responsive to community needs shapes its practical approach to municipal regulations, including those related to lighting.

Quick Reference Guide

• Public lighting infrastructure must be protected - Damaging town lanterns, lamps, or lampposts is prohibited
• Residential lighting requirements focus on safety and basic functionality
• Sexually oriented businesses must maintain minimum illumination of 5 foot-candles at floor level
• Athletic field lighting must be turned off by 11:00 p.m. on weeknights
• All electrical installations must comply with State Electrical Code standards

Residential Lighting Requirements

Basic Electrical Requirements

Conway's building code establishes foundational standards for residential lighting that prioritize safety and functionality:

• Every dwelling must be wired for electric lights and convenience receptacles
• Habitable rooms require at least two floor- or wall-type electric convenience receptacles
• All fixtures and wiring must be maintained in good repair and installed according to State Electrical Code

Room-Specific Requirements

Different spaces within residences have specific lighting requirements:

• Bathrooms must have at least one ceiling or wall-type electric light fixture
• Water closet rooms must have at least one ceiling or wall-type electric light fixture
• Laundry rooms must have at least one ceiling or wall-type electric light fixture
• Furnace rooms must have at least one ceiling or wall-type electric light fixture

Multi-Family Dwelling Requirements

For buildings with multiple dwelling units, Conway mandates:

• Public halls and stairways must be adequately lighted by electric lights
• Lighting must function at all times when natural daylight is insufficient
• This requirement supports both safety and security in shared spaces

Commercial Property Lighting

Sexually Oriented Businesses

Conway's most detailed lighting requirements apply specifically to sexually oriented businesses:

• Minimum illumination level of 5 foot-candles measured at floor level
• Every area accessible to patrons must meet this illumination standard
• No flashing lights permitted on the exterior portion of the business
• License applications must include a diagram showing location of all overhead lighting fixtures

Other Commercial Properties

While the code extracts don't reveal specific lighting requirements for other types of commercial properties, all electrical installations would need to comply with the State Electrical Code as referenced in residential requirements.

Public and Recreational Lighting

Athletic Field Lighting

Conway regulates the hours of operation for outdoor lighting at athletic facilities:

• No outdoor athletic events shall continue beyond 11:00 p.m. on weeknights
• Town law officers are authorized to cut off lights at 11:00 p.m. if not done voluntarily
• Officers may secure light switches or boxes to enforce this regulation

Protection of Public Lighting

Conway's code explicitly prohibits:

• Injuring or defacing any lantern, lamp, or lamppost belonging to the town
• This provision helps protect the town's investment in public lighting infrastructure

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Conway's Approach

Conway's lighting regulations reflect its practical, minimalist approach to governance. Property owners should recognize:

• The town places greater emphasis on basic safety standards than aesthetic considerations
• State Electrical Code compliance is the foundation of Conway's lighting requirements
• There are few restrictions on lighting design or placement beyond basic safety standards

Planning for Compliance

When developing or renovating property in Conway:

• Consult with licensed electricians familiar with North Carolina State Electrical Code
• Ensure adequate lighting in all required locations within residential properties
• Document lighting plans thoroughly, especially for specialized business types
• Consider neighbor impacts even though specific light trespass regulations aren't detailed

Gaps in Regulation

Property owners should note that Conway's code does not appear to address:

• Light trespass (light shining onto neighboring properties)
• Correlated color temperature (CCT) of outdoor lighting
• Specific fixture shielding requirements
• Maximum illumination levels

Supporting Conway's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Conway's approach to maintaining its small-town character while ensuring basic safety standards. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we recognize the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with community character.

Bock Lighting has extensive experience working with small towns like Conway, helping property owners navigate local requirements while respecting community values. Our team can serve as an educational resource for understanding how lighting choices impact both code compliance and community aesthetics.

While Conway's regulations are minimal compared to many municipalities, we appreciate the town's focus on safety and functionality. Our commitment to sustainable lighting practices aligns with Conway's practical approach to community development.

Conclusion

Conway's lighting regulations focus primarily on basic safety standards rather than comprehensive control of lighting design. The requirements emphasize adequate illumination in residential settings, time restrictions for athletic facilities, and specific standards for certain business types.

Property owners enjoy considerable flexibility in lighting choices while still needing to ensure compliance with the State Electrical Code. This approach reflects Conway's broader values of maintaining a safe community environment while preserving the small-town atmosphere that makes Conway unique.

For specific questions about compliance or for clarification of requirements not explicitly addressed in the town code, property owners should contact Conway town officials directly.