Lighting Regulations in DeGraff, Ohio: A Guide to Village Requirements

Introduction

DeGraff, Ohio, with its rich history dating back to 1852, has evolved from what local historians call the "candle age" to the modern era of electric lighting. This charming village, founded when the railroad arrived, has maintained its close-knit community atmosphere while adapting to technological changes over the decades.

The village's approach to lighting reflects its practical needs while preserving the character that makes DeGraff unique. Located at the intersection of State Routes 235 and 508, this small but vibrant community balances modern functionality with respect for its historical roots.

Quick Reference Guide

DeGraff maintains basic lighting regulations focused primarily on:

• Public lighting oversight: The Street Commissioner or engineer supervises lighting of all public places
• Street lighting authorization: Municipal lighting restricted to officially accepted public streets
• Vegetation management: Trees and shrubs must not block street lights
• Flagpole lighting: Specific requirements for underground flag illumination

Public Lighting Administration

Authority and Oversight

In DeGraff, the management of public lighting falls under specific municipal oversight. The village code clearly establishes that:

• The Street Commissioner or engineer shall supervise the lighting of all public places

This centralized approach ensures consistency in public lighting throughout the village, maintaining both safety and aesthetic standards that complement DeGraff's historical character.

Street Lighting Authorization

The village maintains specific guidelines about which streets can receive municipal lighting:

• No department of the municipality shall "light any street or other way" unless:
• The street has been accepted as a public street prior to the effective date of the code, OR
• The street corresponds with a street shown on a recorded plat legally accepted by the Legislative Authority

This regulation helps ensure that public resources are allocated appropriately and that lighting is provided only on officially recognized public thoroughfares.

Vegetation Management for Effective Lighting

Tree and Shrub Restrictions

DeGraff's regulations recognize the importance of unobstructed lighting for public safety. The village code specifically addresses vegetation that might interfere with street lighting:

• It is unlawful to plant, grow, or maintain trees or shrubbery that:
• Obstruct proper distribution of light from street lamps
• Block the view of traffic approaching an intersection

Tree Maintenance Requirements

Property owners have specific responsibilities regarding vegetation near street lights:

• Branches of all trees in front of and along lots near street lights must be trimmed
• This trimming must ensure free passage of light from street lights to the street and sidewalk

These requirements reflect DeGraff's practical approach to maintaining effective lighting throughout the village while still preserving its tree-lined character.

Flagpole Lighting Specifications

Installation Requirements

DeGraff has specific regulations regarding how property owners may illuminate flags, reflecting both practical and patriotic considerations:

• Property owners may install underground lighting for displaying flags
• Lighting must be situated within a reasonable distance to the flagpole holder
• Installations must meet all underwriters' requirements
• The highest part of the lighting fixture must remain flush with the sidewalk or sodded area

Flagpole Holder Specifications

The regulations extend to the flagpole holder itself:

• Holders must be embedded in concrete
• The installation should be flush with the sidewalk or sodded area
• Holders should have a cap or cover for use when not displaying the American flag
• Holders must not exceed two inches in diameter
• Installation must be at least one foot from the curb

These detailed specifications ensure that flagpole lighting installations are both functional and unobtrusive, maintaining the village's aesthetic standards.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Responsibilities

As a property owner in DeGraff, your primary lighting-related responsibilities involve:

• Keeping vegetation trimmed to avoid obstructing street lights
• Ensuring any flagpole lighting meets village specifications
• Understanding that street lighting is restricted to officially recognized public streets

Planning for New Installations

When considering new exterior lighting on your property:

• Consult with the village about any permit requirements for exterior lighting installations
• Consider how your lighting might affect neighboring properties
• Prioritize designs that complement DeGraff's historical character

While DeGraff's lighting regulations are not extensive, being a good neighbor and respecting the village's character remain important considerations.

Supporting DeGraff's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares DeGraff's commitment to blending historical character with modern functionality. As a regional manufacturer, we understand the unique lighting needs of small Ohio communities that value their heritage.

Our appreciation for DeGraff's transition from the "candle age" to modern lighting aligns with our century-long evolution in the lighting industry. We recognize the balance that communities like DeGraff seek to achieve—maintaining their small-town atmosphere while providing safe, functional lighting for residents.

Bock Lighting's experience with projects throughout Ohio has given us insight into how lighting can enhance community character rather than detract from it. Our team can serve as a resource for DeGraff residents navigating the village's lighting requirements, offering guidance that respects both regulations and regional architectural styles.

Conclusion

DeGraff's approach to lighting regulations reflects its practical, community-oriented character. While not extensive, the village's lighting rules focus on ensuring public safety, proper maintenance, and respect for municipal authority.

As DeGraff continues to balance its historical heritage with modern needs, thoughtful lighting plays an important role in maintaining the village's charm and functionality. Property owners who understand and follow these basic regulations contribute to preserving the character that makes DeGraff a special place to live.

By focusing on proper vegetation management around street lights and following specifications for installations like flagpole lighting, residents help ensure that DeGraff remains well-lit, safe, and true to its historical roots.