Lighting Regulations in Frankfort, Illinois: Preserving Historic Character with Modern Illumination Standards

Frankfort, Illinois, with its rich history dating back to 1855, has carefully developed lighting regulations that balance the preservation of its small-town charm with the practical needs of a modern community. These regulations reflect the village's commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors alike.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

• Sign Illumination: Limited to 30 foot-candles (323 nits) measured from 4 feet away
• Drive-through Menu Screens: Maximum 3,000 nits with automatic dimming technology
• Illumination Direction: Light sources must be shielded and directed to prevent visibility from public streets
• Prohibited Lighting Types: Bare bulb illumination, beacons, flashing signs, backlit block signs, and festoon lighting
• Internal Sign Illumination: Must have opaque backgrounds with only letters and logos illuminated
• Box Signs: Internally illuminated box signs are prohibited in most districts

Understanding Frankfort's Lighting Vision

Historical Preservation Through Thoughtful Illumination

Founded in 1855 and incorporated in 1879, Frankfort takes pride in its well-preserved downtown area and small-town atmosphere. The village's lighting regulations are designed to complement this historical character while meeting modern needs.

The Purpose Behind the Regulations

Frankfort's approach to development emphasizes preservation and community values. The lighting regulations serve multiple purposes:

• Preserving the village's historical aesthetic
• Reducing light pollution and glare
• Ensuring safety without compromising character
• Creating visual harmony throughout the community

Organizations Supporting Frankfort's Character

The Frankfort Area Historical Society and the Frankfort Preservation Foundation work diligently to maintain the town's heritage. These efforts extend to the lighting standards that help define the village's visual identity after dark.

Sign Illumination: Technical Requirements

Light Intensity Specifications

Frankfort's code is specific about lighting levels for commercial signage:

• Standard Signs: Must produce no more than 30 foot-candles (323 nits) of illumination when measured from 4 feet away
• Drive-through Digital Screens: Limited to 3,000 nits (278.71 foot-candles) with required automatic dimming technology

Illumination Methods and Restrictions

The village permits several illumination methods while prohibiting others:

Permitted Illumination:

• Internally illuminated channel letters
• Reverse channel lit letters
• Spot lighting and similar external forms
• Steady, stationary, shielded light sources

Prohibited Illumination:

• Bare bulb illumination (exposed illumination materials)
• Beacons (lights directed into the atmosphere or at other points)
• Flashing signs (changing light effects by any means)
• Festoon lighting (strings of visible light bulbs hung overhead)
• Exposed reflective-type bulbs and strobe lights
• Backlit block signs (strongly discouraged)

Special Requirements for Internal Illumination

When signs are internally illuminated, they must:

• Have an opaque background with only letters and logos illuminated
• Not be "box signs" (prohibited in most districts)
• Comply with all provisions in § 151.003

District-Specific Lighting Regulations

Residential Areas

• Internal illumination of residential freestanding signs is prohibited
• Pole-mounted shingle signs cannot be internally illuminated
• Residential subdivision entrance signs must not be internally illuminated

Commercial Districts (B1, B2, B3, and B4)

• Wall signage in B1-B3 districts may use internally illuminated channel letters or external lighting
• Signs in the B4 district cannot be internally illuminated
• Freestanding signs may be internally or externally illuminated (except box signs)
• Window signs cannot be illuminated or use neon/bare-bulb lighting

Historic District Considerations

Frankfort's historic areas have additional restrictions:

• Wall signage must comply with specific illumination standards
• Many temporary signs cannot be illuminated (A-frame signs, real estate signs, etc.)
• Excessive brightness, flashing lights, and brilliant colors are prohibited

Temporary and Special Purpose Signs

Prohibited Illumination

Many temporary signs cannot be illuminated in Frankfort:

• Political signs
• Banners
• Contractor signs
• Real estate signs
• Development signs
• A-frame signs
• Inflatable signs
• Temporary window signs

Special Regulations for Drive-Through Signs

Drive-through signage has specific requirements:

• Light must be contained to the drive-through lane only
• Digital order screens must comply with § 151.003(M)
• Digital menu boards require automatic dimming technology

Practical Considerations for Property Owners

Vegetation and Lighting

Property owners should be aware that:

• Trees and shrubs must not be located within 15 feet of any street light
• Tree branches overhanging public streets must be pruned to avoid obstructing light from street lamps
• The village has the right to prune trees that interfere with light spread or traffic control visibility

Planning for Lighting Installation

When planning lighting for your property:

• Outdoor lighting should enhance building design and adjoining landscape
• Lighting standards and fixtures must comply with village requirements
• Excessive brightness is not permitted
• Light sources should be shielded from view

Application Requirements

When submitting lighting proposals to the village:

• Include complete photometric diagrams
• Provide cut sheets of proposed lighting fixtures
• Show locations of all existing and proposed lighting standards
• Ensure lighting harmonizes with overall design

Supporting Frankfort's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a manufacturer with deep Midwestern roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique balance Frankfort seeks to achieve between historical preservation and modern functionality. Our expertise aligns with Frankfort's commitment to maintaining its quintessential small-town atmosphere while providing safe, practical lighting solutions.

We appreciate communities like Frankfort that value their architectural heritage and small-town character. Our approach focuses on helping communities navigate lighting regulations while preserving the distinctive visual identity that makes places like Frankfort special.

As a resource for understanding lighting regulations, Bock Lighting can help residents and business owners interpret technical requirements and find solutions that respect both the letter and spirit of Frankfort's lighting vision. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and historical lighting approaches makes us a natural partner for communities that prioritize preservation alongside progress.

Conclusion

Frankfort's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring modern functionality. By carefully controlling illumination methods, intensity, and placement, the village maintains its distinctive small-town charm after dark.

Property owners should pay particular attention to sign illumination requirements, district-specific regulations, and the numerous prohibitions on certain lighting types. By understanding and following these guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to Frankfort's vision of a community that honors its past while thoughtfully embracing the future.

For specific questions about lighting compliance, property owners should consult with the village planning department or qualified lighting professionals familiar with Frankfort's unique requirements.