Lighting Regulations in Franklinville, New York: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Balancing History and Safety

Nestled in western New York, Franklinville bears the distinction of a village with rich historical character dating back to the early 19th century. The Franklin Village Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1984, showcases a variety of architectural styles across its residential buildings, churches, and commercial structures. One of these churches was even designed by the renowned architect Richard Upjohn and his son in 1865.

In this historically significant setting, lighting regulations serve a dual purpose: preserving the village's distinctive historical ambiance while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors. The lighting guidelines in Franklinville reflect the community's commitment to maintaining its architectural heritage while adapting to modern needs.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Before diving into specifics, here's a quick overview of the most critical lighting regulations in Franklinville:

• Glare Prevention: No direct or reflected glare visible from properties outside industrial districts or from public thoroughfares
• Historic District Requirements: Changes to light fixtures visible from public streets/alleys require a certificate of appropriateness
• Sign Illumination: Lighting for signs must concentrate on the sign area to prevent glare on streets or adjacent properties
• Safety Provisions: Special restrictions apply for lighting in areas with flammable materials
• Documentation Required: External lighting plans must detail fixture location, height, intensity, bulb type, and glare prevention methods

Glare Control and Light Trespass

Minimizing Light Spillover

One consistent theme in Franklinville's lighting regulations is the control of glare and light trespass. No direct or reflected glare is permitted that would be visible from any property outside an industrial district or from public thoroughfares.

Documentation Requirements

When planning external lighting installations, property owners must provide detailed documentation showing:

• Location of all lighting fixtures
• Height of fixtures
• Light intensity
• Bulb type (sodium, incandescent, etc.)
• Direction of illumination
• Methods to eliminate glare onto adjoining properties

These requirements help ensure that lighting enhances rather than detracts from the village's historical character while respecting neighboring properties.

Sign Illumination Standards

Ground Signs

The village permits lighting on ground signs with specific conditions. Illumination must be concentrated upon the sign area to prevent glare affecting streets or adjacent properties.

Projecting and Hanging Signs

Similar to ground signs, both projecting and hanging signs may be illuminated, provided that:

• Light is concentrated on the sign area
• No glare is created on streets or adjacent properties
• The lighting complements rather than detracts from the surroundings

These balanced regulations allow businesses to remain visible while preserving the village's aesthetic appeal.

Historic District and Landmark Lighting Considerations

Certificate of Appropriateness

In Franklinville's historic districts, preserving architectural integrity is paramount. A certificate of appropriateness from the Village Board of Trustees is required for any material change to light fixtures visible from a public street or alley.

Application Requirements

When applying for a certificate of appropriateness that includes signage or lettering with illumination, applicants must provide:

• Scale drawings
• Description of lighting method
• Plan showing the sign's location on the property

Compatibility Standards

The Village Board and Commission evaluate whether proposed lighting alterations:

• Are compatible with the property's historic character
• Harmonize with the surrounding district
• Maintain the cohesiveness of the historic area

New construction must also adhere to lighting standards that complement the district's historical aesthetics.

Safety Regulations for Specialized Areas

Flammable Material Safety

Franklinville places strict regulations on lighting in areas where flammable materials are present:

• No open flame lighting systems are permitted where flammable liquids, gases, vapors, or combustible materials are stored
• Only protected incandescent electric lights are allowed in spaces with flammable materials

These safety-focused regulations help prevent potential hazards while ensuring adequate illumination.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

If you're a property owner in Franklinville considering lighting modifications, plan ahead for:

• Historic District Reviews: Allow sufficient time for the certificate of appropriateness process if your property is in a historic district
• Documentation: Prepare detailed lighting plans showing fixture specifications and placement
• Glare Prevention: Design lighting to eliminate spillover onto neighboring properties
• Sign Illumination: Ensure sign lighting concentrates on the sign itself to prevent glare

Balancing Function and Heritage

The village's regulations seek a middle ground between modern lighting needs and historical preservation. When planning lighting projects, consider how your choices will impact both the functionality of your property and the village's historic character.

Supporting Franklinville's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Franklinville's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing modern technology. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs aligns with Franklinville's balance of safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

As a resource for communities like Franklinville, we appreciate the delicate balance required to maintain the character of historic areas while providing effective illumination. Our experience with projects that respect community character and local regulations allows us to support property owners navigating lighting requirements.

Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices parallels Franklinville's vision for preserving its unique historical ambiance. We believe that thoughtful lighting enhances rather than detracts from a community's distinctive character.

Conclusion

Franklinville's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its rich historical heritage while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors. By controlling glare, requiring appropriate documentation, and establishing special considerations for historic districts, the village maintains its distinctive character.

For property owners, understanding these regulations is essential for successful lighting projects that enhance properties while respecting the village's historical significance. With thoughtful planning and design, lighting can contribute positively to Franklinville's unique sense of place for generations to come.

Whether illuminating historic buildings, businesses, or residential properties, adherence to these lighting standards helps maintain Franklinville's status as a village where history shines brightly into the future.