Lighting Regulations in Dauphin Borough, Pennsylvania: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Dauphin Borough's Historical Lighting Context

Established in 1765 by Samuel Sturgeon, Dauphin Borough sits nestled between the Second and Third Mountains at the mouth of Stony Creek. This charming Pennsylvania community, once known as Green's Mill after Revolutionary War soldier Timothy Green's grist mill, carries a rich historical legacy that extends to the present day.

The Dauphin-Middle Paxton Historical Society actively works to preserve the borough's heritage through initiatives like historical plaques for homes and businesses. This commitment to historical preservation influences many aspects of community planning, including the borough's approach to lighting regulations.

While Dauphin Borough maintains relatively limited lighting regulations compared to some municipalities, those that exist reflect a careful balance between modern safety needs and preserving the community's historical character and small-town atmosphere.

Quick Reference Guide: Dauphin Borough Lighting Requirements

Before diving into specifics, here's a quick summary of the key lighting regulations found in Dauphin Borough's codes:

• Multiple Dwelling Common Areas: Public halls and stairways require minimum 6 footcandles of light at floor level
• Street Lighting: Required at one corner of every intersection, meeting Borough specifications
• Property Limitations: No objectionable glare permitted beyond property lines
• Sign Lighting: Multiple restrictions on brightness, flashing lights, and positioning
• Light Switch Options: Certain smaller dwellings may use switches rather than continuous lighting

Residential Lighting Requirements

Multiple Dwelling Common Area Lighting

Safety in shared residential spaces remains a priority in Dauphin Borough's lighting regulations:

• Public halls and stairways in multiple dwellings must be adequately illuminated by either natural or electric light
• Minimum illumination level of at least 6 footcandles of light at the tread or floor level is required
• This lighting must be maintained at all times to ensure resident safety

Simplified Requirements for Smaller Buildings

The borough provides more flexibility for smaller residential structures:

• Buildings containing no more than two dwellings may use conveniently located light switches
• These switches must control an adequate lighting system
• This alternative approach eliminates the need for continuous lighting while still ensuring safety when needed

Exterior and Property Lighting Regulations

Property Boundary Considerations

While specific technical specifications are limited, Dauphin Borough does address the impact of lighting on neighboring properties:

• Property lighting must not produce objectionable heat or glare beyond the property line
• This regulation helps preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the community while preventing disputes between neighbors
• Property owners should ensure exterior lighting is properly shielded and directed to comply with this requirement

Street Lighting Requirements

The borough maintains specific requirements for street lighting to ensure public safety:

• A street light meeting Borough specifications must be installed at one corner of every intersection
• This requirement likely helps maintain consistent illumination standards throughout the community
• The specific technical requirements for these lights would be available through Borough offices

Sign Lighting Regulations

Dauphin Borough maintains particularly detailed regulations regarding sign illumination, addressing both safety and aesthetic concerns:

Safety-Focused Sign Lighting Requirements

• Panel-type signs must be effectively shielded to prevent light beams or rays from being directed at streets or highways
• Sign illumination must not be of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair driver vision
• No sign shall be illuminated in a way that interferes with official traffic signs, devices, or signals

Prohibited Sign Lighting

The following types of sign lighting are specifically prohibited in Dauphin Borough:

• Signs containing flashing, intermittent, or moving lights
• Signs that rotate and/or cause interruption or flashing of light
• Signs mounted on wheeled vehicles with such lighting features

Height and Placement Considerations

• Signs shall not project above the height limit permitted in the district where they're located
• All signs erected within State highway rights-of-way must comply with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation regulations

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Your Lighting Installation

When planning lighting for your Dauphin Borough property, consider these practical recommendations:

• Check current requirements: While this blog covers known regulations, always verify current requirements with Borough officials
• Consider both safety and aesthetics: Lighting should enhance safety while respecting the historical character of the community
• Be mindful of neighbors: Direct lighting downward and away from neighboring properties to prevent light trespass
• Balance historic charm with modern needs: Choose fixtures that complement the historical character of Dauphin Borough

Special Considerations for Historic Properties

If your property is of historical significance or located in an area of historical interest:

• Consider fixtures that complement the historical period of your building
• Consult with the Dauphin-Middle Paxton Historical Society about historically appropriate lighting options
• Remember that appropriate lighting enhances rather than detracts from historical character

Supporting Dauphin's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and share Dauphin Borough's commitment to preserving its unique historical character while meeting modern lighting needs. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate communities that value their architectural heritage.

Our experience with regional architectural styles and understanding of the balance between preservation and functionality makes us a natural partner for communities like Dauphin Borough. We recognize the importance of lighting solutions that respect both the technical requirements of local regulations and the aesthetic considerations of historically significant areas.

Rather than simply providing products, we see our role as supporting communities through education about lighting regulations and options that maintain community character. Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with the values that have guided Dauphin Borough's development throughout its history.

Conclusion

Dauphin Borough's lighting regulations, while not extensive, reflect the community's commitment to safety, historical preservation, and maintaining its distinctive character. The focus on preventing light trespass, ensuring adequate illumination in multi-dwelling buildings, and carefully regulating sign lighting demonstrates a thoughtful approach to community planning.

Property owners in Dauphin Borough should view these regulations not as limitations but as guidelines that help preserve the special character that makes this historic Pennsylvania community unique. By understanding and embracing these lighting standards, residents contribute to maintaining the borough's historical integrity while ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for all.

For specific questions about current lighting regulations or permit requirements, contact the Dauphin Borough administrative offices directly for the most up-to-date information.