Lighting Regulations in Deerfield, Illinois: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Needs

Introduction

Deerfield, Illinois, a community with roots dating back to 1835, has evolved into a vibrant suburban village while maintaining its distinctive historical character. Named for the abundant deer in the area, Deerfield has long been recognized as one of the best places to raise children in the region.

The village's approach to development reflects a careful balance between preserving its heritage and meeting contemporary needs. This balance is evident in Deerfield's lighting regulations, which aim to enhance safety and functionality while respecting the aesthetic values and quality of life that residents cherish.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here are the most critical lighting regulations in Deerfield that property owners should know:

• Residential lighting hours: Exterior lighting in rear yards must not operate unattended between 11:00 PM and dawn
• Sports court lighting: Maximum height of 18 feet with maximum light emission of 0.1 foot candles at property line
• Light direction: All exterior lighting must be directed away from adjoining properties and streets
• Sign illumination: Illuminated signs within 120 feet of residential districts must be turned off at close of business or 11:00 PM
• Shielding requirements: Lighting for amusements must use reflectors and shields to prevent glare toward residential properties

Residential Lighting Regulations

Hours of Operation

Deerfield has established clear guidelines for when residential exterior lighting can operate:

• Exterior lighting located in rear yards cannot remain illuminated unattended between 11:00 PM and dawn
• The village encourages automated shut-off controls for residential lighting
• These regulations apply to all residential zoning districts

Outdoor Recreation and Sport Court Lighting

Special provisions govern lighting for residential sport courts and recreational areas:

• Installation requirements:
• Light fixtures must be shielded according to manufacturer specifications
• Maximum height of 18 feet above ground level
• Maximum light emission of 0.1 foot candles at any point on the property line
• Operation restrictions:
• Light levels must be reasonable for the intended activities
• Lights cannot operate when the court or field is not in use
• A lighting plan must be submitted to the Village before installation
• Exemptions:
• Fixtures installed before August 19, 2019 are exempt from some requirements unless they are significantly repaired or replaced

Commercial Lighting Requirements

General Commercial Lighting Standards

All commercial properties in Deerfield must ensure their lighting complies with these standards:

• All exterior lighting must be directed away from adjoining highways, streets, and properties
• Minimal glare or heat should be detectable at property lines
• The arrangement and illumination of parking facilities requires approval from the Director of Building and Zoning

Places of Amusement

Deerfield has specific lighting regulations for amusement establishments:

• No floodlights or other lights can shine toward private dwelling houses or streets
• All illumination must be directed toward the ground or amusement structure
• Lights must have reflectors and shields to prevent glare toward residential properties

Liquor Establishments

Establishments selling liquor for on-premises consumption have unique lighting requirements:

• Interior lighting must allow a full view of the entire premises
• Rooms must be continually lighted during business hours by natural or artificial white lights
• Lighting is subject to periodic inspection by the Village Building and Code Enforcement Supervisor

Sign Illumination Regulations

General Sign Lighting Requirements

Deerfield has developed comprehensive regulations for sign illumination:

• Light sources must be fixed and concealed
• Signs must avoid casting glare onto adjoining streets and properties
• Flashing signs are expressly prohibited
• Illuminated signs within 120 feet of residential districts must be extinguished at close of business or 11:00 PM, whichever is later
• Temporary signs cannot be illuminated unless specifically permitted

Electronic and LED Signage

Special requirements apply to electronic and LED signs:

• Automobile service station LED signs:
• Must maintain brightness level of 0.3 foot candles above ambient light
• Must automatically adjust brightness in response to ambient light changes
• Must extinguish at close of business if within 120 feet of residential districts
• LED numerals for gas prices cannot exceed 14 inches in height
• Only one LED color is allowed with a black, non-illuminated background
• Digital monument signs:
• Maximum brightness of 7,000 nits during day and 1,500 nits at night
• Must automatically reduce brightness as natural light decreases
• Display restricted to hours between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM

Construction and Public Safety Lighting

Construction Site Requirements

To ensure public safety, Deerfield requires lighting for construction areas:

• Barricades must be protected by lights at nighttime
• Any pavement defects or excavations must be guarded with proper barricades and lights
• Disturbing or interfering with such safety lighting is prohibited

Special Technology Considerations

Emerging technologies have specific lighting limitations:

• Small Wireless Facilities (SWF) cannot be lighted unless required by federal or state agencies
• Small Wind Energy Systems (SWES) cannot be artificially lighted unless required by regulations
• Any required lighting for these systems must be shielded to prevent glare beyond facility boundaries

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Deerfield's lighting regulations helps property owners avoid compliance issues while contributing to the community's aesthetic goals:

Planning Your Lighting

• Consider timing controls: Automated shut-off systems are encouraged and help comply with after-hours restrictions
• Direction matters: Always point lights downward and away from neighboring properties
• Get approval: Submit lighting plans before installation, especially for sport courts and special fixtures
• Choose appropriate brightness: Regulations often specify maximum brightness levels to prevent light pollution

Sign Considerations

If your property includes signs:

• Understand illumination restrictions based on your sign type and location
• Remember time limits if your sign is near residential areas
• Consider LED requirements if using electronic displays
• Avoid prohibited features like flashing or excess brightness

Supporting Deerfield's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting shares Deerfield's commitment to balancing modern lighting needs with preservation of community character. With roots dating back to 1918, Bock understands the importance of lighting that enhances safety and functionality while respecting historical aesthetics.

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer, Bock appreciates Deerfield's efforts to maintain its distinctive character while embracing appropriate technologies. Our experience with similar communities has shown that thoughtful lighting design can simultaneously meet safety requirements and preserve the aesthetic qualities that make places like Deerfield special.

Bock values education and communication about lighting regulations, helping property owners understand how to achieve both compliance and beauty. Our team stays informed about regional architectural styles and lighting approaches that complement traditional community designs.

The lighting challenges faced by historically-minded communities like Deerfield require partners who understand both technical requirements and aesthetic sensibilities. Bock Lighting is proud to serve as a resource for communities seeking this careful balance.

Conclusion

Deerfield's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By specifying requirements for different lighting applications, from residential yards to commercial signs, these regulations help maintain the community aesthetics and quality of life that residents value.

Property owners who understand and follow these requirements contribute to Deerfield's vision of a well-lit but visually harmonious environment. Through thoughtful lighting choices, the village can continue to honor its heritage while meeting the needs of a modern suburban community.