Lighting Regulations in Flora, Illinois: Preserving Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Founded in the late 1800s, Flora, Illinois gained prominence as a vital hub at the intersection of major rail lines. This strategic location fostered the town's development, with railroads continuing to influence its industrial landscape. The community's character is further distinguished by its designation as "Ford Town USA" in 1960, when Ford Motor Company selected Flora for a promotional event providing residents with new vehicles to drive for a week.

This rich heritage, combined with the surrounding agricultural landscape, has shaped Flora's approach to development and regulations. The town's lighting ordinances reflect a balance between modern needs and the preservation of its historical roots and rural charm.

Quick Reference Guide to Flora's Lighting Regulations

Key Lighting Requirements:

• Security Lighting: 100-watt high pressure sodium lights available from the city at $10/month
• Electrical Work: No smaller than No. 12 wire for general lighting circuits
• Sign Illumination: Change intervals must not be shorter than 5 seconds
• Interior Lighting: Public areas must be adequately lit at all times
• Prohibited Lighting: Festoon lights and bare bulbs exceeding 25 watts
• Tower Lighting: No artificial illumination unless required by FAA

Residential and Commercial Building Requirements

Interior Lighting Standards

For residential properties, Flora's code specifies several important lighting requirements:

• Every bathroom must be adequately lighted by artificial or natural light at all times
• Hallways must be ventilated adequately and lighted at all times by natural or artificial light
• Every dwelling unit must contain electrical outlets and fixtures that comply with the city's electrical code
• Public areas (halls, stairways) in multi-unit buildings must be adequately lighted at all times

Electrical Installation Requirements

The city has specific electrical codes that must be followed:

• No smaller wire than No. 12 shall be used in general purpose receptacle or lighting circuits
• Exception: Switch legs for single light fixtures may use No. 14 wire
• Metal conduits required for electrical work in non-residential buildings and larger residential complexes
• All installations must follow the National Electrical Code as adopted by the city

Liquor-Serving Establishments

Businesses serving alcohol face additional lighting requirements:

• Full interior visibility must be maintained - no arrangement of lights can prevent full view from the street
• Continuous lighting during business hours by natural light or artificial white light
• All parts of the interior must be clearly visible from public viewing areas

Security Lighting Options

Flora offers city-provided security lighting services to residents and businesses:

• 100-watt high pressure sodium lights available upon request
• City provides all labor and materials for installation
• Cannot be mounted on privately-owned buildings
• Unmetered service at $10 per month added to utility bill
• City maintains the light and pole at no additional cost
• Utility poles, if needed, provided at customer's expense

Sign Illumination Regulations

Basic Illumination Standards

The city carefully regulates how signs can be illuminated:

• Signs may be illuminated except for residential dwellings and home occupations
• Political signs cannot be illuminated under any circumstances
• Light sources must be shaded and shielded to prevent adverse effects on surrounding premises
• Illumination must not affect driver visibility or safety
• Light cannot shine into neighboring residential structures

Electronic and Animated Displays

For digital and animated signage, Flora has established specific parameters:

• No illumination changes in intervals shorter than 5 seconds
• Movements or lighting changes must take at least 2 seconds to complete
• Individual movements cannot occur more rapidly than 2.5 times per second
• Prohibited elements: Flashing, blinking or pulsating lights depicting sudden actions

Prohibited Lighting Types

Several lighting types are explicitly prohibited:

• Festoon lights (two or more exposed light bulbs hung overhead)
• Bare bulb illumination exceeding 25 watts per bulb
• Flashing or intermittent illumination on any sign type

Tower and Communication Facility Lighting

Wireless Communication Facilities (WCF) towers in Flora are subject to specific lighting restrictions:

• Towers shall not be illuminated by artificial means
• No strobe or flashing lights permitted
• Exception: When required by FAA or other federal/state authorities

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When developing property in Flora, remember these key considerations:

• For new developments: Detailed plans must include lighting system specifications
• For businesses serving alcohol: Interior lighting must facilitate visibility from outside
• For sign installation: Verify illumination restrictions before installation
• For security needs: Consider the city's security lighting program

Working with the City

Flora's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to safety while preserving community character:

• The superintendent has control and management of public lighting
• No interference with street lamps is permitted
• When in doubt, consult city officials for guidance on specific projects

Supporting Flora's Lighting Vision

As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the importance of preserving community character while embracing modern lighting technology. We appreciate Flora's balance of historical preservation with contemporary needs, particularly in a community with such rich railroad heritage and agricultural surroundings.

Our approach aligns with Flora's values of maintaining its unique small-town charm while ensuring safety and functionality. We believe in supporting communities like Flora by providing education about lighting regulations and solutions that respect local character.

With experience in projects that honor community aesthetics while meeting practical requirements, Bock Lighting commits to helping property owners navigate lighting choices that complement Flora's distinctive character. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs positions us as a resource for those seeking to enhance their properties while respecting the town's regulations and historical significance.

Conclusion

Flora's lighting regulations reflect the town's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. From specific requirements for electrical installations to detailed parameters for sign illumination, these regulations help maintain the town's unique charm while accommodating modern needs.

By understanding and following these lighting requirements, property owners contribute to Flora's vision of balanced development that honors its past while embracing its future. Whether installing new lights or planning a development, considering these regulations early in the process will help ensure smooth project completion and community harmony.