Lighting Regulations in Creston, Iowa: Balancing Historical Heritage with Modern Safety Standards

Introduction: Creston's Unique Lighting Approach

Established in 1869 and incorporated in 1871, Creston, Iowa has a rich historical heritage deeply connected to the railroad industry. As a division point for the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, the city's development was significantly shaped by its railway connections. The famous Creston station, built in 1899 in the French Provincial style with its distinctive red-tiled mansard roof, stands as a testament to the city's architectural legacy.

This blend of historical significance and architectural heritage influences Creston's approach to urban planning, including its lighting regulations. The city strives to balance modern safety requirements while preserving the character that makes Creston unique.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Sign Illumination: Signs shall only be lighted during business hours
• Light Trespass: Commercial/Industrial lighting must not increase illumination on nearby residential property by more than 0.1 foot-candle within 25 feet of dwellings
• Street Lighting: Minimum average of 0.1 foot-candle on all streets; 0.3 foot-candle at hazardous locations
• Glare Control: Light must not be visible from public right-of-ways or beyond property boundaries
• Residential Protection: All lighting must be arranged to prevent annoying glare to neighboring residential properties

Sign Lighting Regulations

Business Hours Limitations

One clear requirement in Creston's regulations is that signs shall only be lighted during business hours. This practical measure helps reduce unnecessary light pollution and energy usage during overnight hours while businesses are closed.

Residential Area Protections

The city takes special care to protect residential areas from commercial lighting impacts. Regulations specify that:

• Light sources shall not be directed at residential areas
• Sign lighting must use indirect lighting from the ground surface
• Sign illumination must be directed away from any Residential District
• Light sources shall not be visible from any public right-of-way

Types of Sign Illumination

Creston distinguishes between different types of illuminated signage:

• "Sign, flashing" refers to illuminated signs where the illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity and color
• "Sign, illuminated" means signs with characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes
• In Residential Districts, nameplate signs identifying owners or occupants shall not be illuminated

Commercial and Industrial Lighting Standards

Specific Light Level Requirements

Creston provides clear numerical standards for lighting levels between commercial and residential areas:

• Artificial light from Commercial or Industrial Districts must not increase illumination on nearby residential districts by more than 0.1 foot-candle within 25 feet of a dwelling
• Illumination must not increase by more than 0.5 foot-candle on any other part of a residential property

Glare Prevention

The regulations include multiple provisions to minimize the impact of lighting glare:

• All lighting must be arranged to prevent glare that would annoy occupants of adjoining property in a Residential District
• Lighting shall be reflected away from public right-of-way and nearby residential areas
• Glare (direct or reflected) shall not be visible beyond the immediate site from which it originates
• Parking lot and driveway lighting must not cause annoying glare toward residential buildings or streets

Public Area Lighting

Street and Walkway Illumination

Creston recognizes the importance of adequate lighting for public safety:

• Lighting should be provided for all streets, walkways, buildings, and facilities subject to nighttime use
• When no specific local requirements exist, streets should maintain an average illumination level of 0.1 foot-candle
• Potentially hazardous locations like street intersections, steps, or ramps should be individually illuminated with a minimum level of 0.3 foot-candle

Construction and Hazard Lighting

For public safety, the city requires:

• Adequate warning lights meeting city standards must be placed to protect the public from hazards at construction sites
• Barricades and fencing must be accompanied by appropriate warning lights

Specialty Lighting Situations

Airport-Related Lighting

Due to aviation safety concerns, Creston has specific requirements for structures near airports:

• Owners of nonconforming structures or trees must permit installation of markers and lights deemed necessary by the Airport Commission
• These markers and lights must indicate the presence of airport obstructions to aircraft
• Lighting and marking requirements are determined through an FAA 7460-1 airspace analysis

Solar Energy Systems

To prevent glare from solar installations:

• Solar energy systems must use neutral colors and non-reflective surfaces
• Measures to minimize glare may include:
• Modifying surface materials
• Adjusting placement or orientation
• Adding screening when necessary

Exceptions for Sports Facilities

The regulations acknowledge the unique lighting needs of athletic facilities:

• Lighting on sport complexes used periodically is exempt from certain lighting restrictions

What Property Owners Should Know

Key Considerations for Compliance

Property owners in Creston should focus on these important aspects of lighting regulations:

• Directionality of light is critical – ensure lighting is pointed away from residential areas and public rights-of-way
• Business signage should only be illuminated during business hours
• Specific light levels must be maintained between commercial and residential properties
• Glare prevention is a priority throughout all regulations

Residential Property Owners

If you own residential property, you should be aware that:

• Commercial properties near you must limit light trespass onto your property
• Signs identifying your residence cannot be illuminated
• You have protections against glare from commercial lighting

Commercial Property Owners

For commercial property owners, important considerations include:

• Ensuring sign lighting is only active during business hours
• Using indirect light sources that aren't visible from public rights-of-way
• Meeting maximum light level requirements when adjacent to residential areas
• Designing parking lot lighting to prevent glare toward residential areas

Supporting Creston's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate Creston's balanced approach to lighting regulations. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Creston's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern lighting technology.

Creston's regulations reflect a community that values both its railroad heritage and the architectural distinctiveness of landmarks like the 1899 Creston station. We recognize how proper lighting can enhance these historical elements while still providing the safety and functionality today's residents need.

Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting requirements positions us as a resource for property owners seeking to comply with local regulations while maintaining Creston's unique character. We're committed to supporting communities like Creston through education about lighting regulations and solutions that respect both history and modern needs.

Conclusion

Creston's lighting regulations reflect a thoughtful approach to balancing historical preservation with modern safety needs. The focus on preventing light trespass and glare demonstrates a commitment to being good neighbors and respecting the city's residential character.

These regulations also acknowledge the importance of proper illumination for public safety in streets, walkways, and hazardous areas. By setting specific numerical standards for light levels, Creston provides clear guidance for property owners.

For anyone planning lighting installations or modifications in Creston, understanding these regulations is essential. They represent the community's vision for maintaining its historical railroad town character while ensuring appropriate lighting for safety and functionality.