Lighting Regulations in Glencoe, Illinois: Preserving Character While Ensuring Safety and Harmony

Introduction

Nestled on the western shores of Lake Michigan, Glencoe, Illinois has maintained its distinctive charm since its founding in 1869. Anson Taylor's original vision of a community harmonizing with its natural surroundings continues to influence the village's approach to development and regulation today.

With its rich architectural heritage and commitment to historical preservation, Glencoe has established lighting regulations that reflect its community values. These guidelines ensure that lighting throughout the village enhances safety and functionality while respecting the aesthetic character that makes Glencoe special.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Residential Light Requirements:

• Light Trespass Control: Lights may not shine or glare into private dwellings or streets
• Tennis Court Lighting: Limited to 4 poles (max 30 feet), 25 foot-candles maximum illumination, and 1 foot-candle maximum at property lines
• Hours Restriction: Tennis court lighting prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Commercial Requirements:

• Business District Lighting: Must use luminare cutoffs to prevent glare onto residential districts
• Parking Areas: Fixed lighting required for lots with more than 10 vehicles, with security-level reduction during non-use
• Signs: Maximum illumination of 75 foot-candles (175 in HF district)

Public Safety:

• Exit Signs: Must display "Exit" in 6-inch letters with illuminated red light above
• External Fire Alarm: Strobe light required for buildings with automatic sprinkler systems

Residential Lighting Standards

Preventing Light Trespass

Glencoe's regulations explicitly protect residential properties from unwanted light. It is unlawful for any person to illuminate property with floodlights or other lights that shine or glare into private dwelling houses or streets. This regulation helps maintain the peaceful character of Glencoe's residential neighborhoods.

All exterior lighting must be directed toward the ground or toward the specific structure being illuminated. Additionally, lights must be equipped with reflectors and shields to prevent glare from affecting neighboring properties.

Specific Standards for Tennis Courts

Tennis court lighting has specific technical parameters to balance functionality with neighborhood harmony:

• Maximum of four light poles per tennis court
• Poles must not exceed 30 feet in height
• Illumination limited to 25 foot-candles within the court boundaries
• Light levels must not exceed 1 foot-candle at any property line
• No tennis court lighting allowed between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Home Occupation Considerations

For residents operating businesses from their homes, lighting must remain residential in character. No equipment producing glare outside the dwelling unit that exceeds typical residential levels is permitted in connection with home occupations.

Commercial Lighting Requirements

Business District Standards

All exterior lighting in Glencoe's business districts must be arranged to prevent direct glare onto residential districts through the use of luminare cutoffs. This technical requirement ensures that commercial lighting doesn't disrupt the tranquility of nearby homes.

The regulations specifically state that exterior lighting shall not "spill over" onto residential properties. This careful attention to light containment reflects Glencoe's commitment to maintaining harmony between commercial and residential areas.

Parking Area Illumination

Parking lots and garages accommodating more than 10 vehicles require fixed lighting with important controls:

• Lighting must be arranged to prevent direct glare onto adjacent properties or streets
• Luminare cutoffs are required to control light dispersion
• During non-use periods, lighting must be reduced to security levels
• All parking lot lighting arrangements are subject to Board of Trustees approval

Special Requirements for Specific Businesses

Certain businesses have lighting requirements specific to their operations:

• Barbershops must be well-lighted and constructed to be easily cleaned
• Funeral establishments require free outside ventilation and light
• Theaters and public amusement venues must be well-lit during performances and until all patrons have left the premises

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Requirements

Glencoe has detailed regulations governing sign illumination to maintain the village's visual character:

• External light sources must be shielded and directed to prevent direct visibility from dwellings or streets
• Light fixtures cannot protrude more than 12 inches from the sign face or building
• Maximum illumination cannot exceed 75 foot-candles (except in HF district where 175 foot-candles is permitted)
• Metal signs with electrical elements located less than 9 feet above grade must be properly grounded

Sign Type-Specific Regulations

Different sign types have specific illumination restrictions:

• Wall signs cannot be internally illuminated
• Window signs may not be illuminated at all
• Projecting signs cannot be internally illuminated but may use gooseneck lamps with halogen or incandescent bulbs
• Multiple projecting signs on the same facade must maintain the same type and intensity of illumination

Timing and Location Restrictions

Signs located within 120 feet of residential districts face timing restrictions:

• No illumination between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (unless the business remains open)
• Signs in B-1 or B-2 Districts cannot use floodlights or spotlights for illumination

Public Safety Lighting Requirements

Exit and Emergency Lighting

Public safety is a priority in Glencoe's lighting regulations:

• Exit signs in public buildings must display "Exit" in letters at least six inches high
• A red light must be kept burning over exit signs whenever the building is open to the public
• Theaters and public venues must have supplemental lighting systems and remain well-lit during performances until all patrons have departed
• Buildings with automatic sprinkler systems require an external fire alarm strobe light

Supporting Glencoe's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting understands and appreciates Glencoe's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality through thoughtful lighting regulations. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share Glencoe's values regarding architectural integrity and community aesthetics.

Our team recognizes the delicate balance Glencoe maintains between modern lighting needs and historical preservation. With our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting requirements, we can serve as a resource for residents and businesses navigating lighting regulations.

Bock Lighting's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Glencoe's vision for maintaining the distinctive character that has defined the village since its founding. We appreciate communities like Glencoe that carefully consider how lighting impacts their historical landscape and residential harmony.

Conclusion

Glencoe's lighting regulations reflect the village's dedication to preserving its unique character while providing for the safety and needs of its residents. From controlling light trespass in residential neighborhoods to setting specific standards for commercial and public buildings, these regulations help maintain the aesthetic integrity and harmony that have defined Glencoe since 1869.

Understanding and following these lighting guidelines not only ensures compliance but contributes to the continued preservation of Glencoe's historical and architectural heritage. As the village continues to evolve, these thoughtful lighting standards will help maintain the balance between progress and preservation that makes Glencoe such a special place to live and visit.