Lighting Regulations in Goodland, Indiana: Preserving Small-Town Charm While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in the southwest corner of Newton County, Goodland, Indiana has maintained its small-town charm since its founding in the late 19th century. Known as "The Little Town with a Big Heart," Goodland's modest yet charming architectural heritage reflects the typical small-town America aesthetic from the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The town's lighting regulations, while not extensive, align with its commitment to maintaining a high quality of rural life characterized by safety, welcoming atmosphere, and family-oriented values. These regulations balance the preservation of historical ambiance while ensuring the community's modern needs are met.

Let's explore what property owners, businesses, and residents need to know about Goodland's lighting requirements.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements in Goodland:

• Building Classification: Lighting fixtures serving buildings are considered part of the building structure
• Home Occupations: Signs must be unanimated and non-illuminated
• Nuisance Prevention: No offensive glare is permitted from any property
• Street Lighting: May be required at subdivision intersections per Town Council requirements
• Signage Illumination: Methods of illumination must be included in permit applications
• Multi-family Dwellings: Must have lights and switches in accessible locations

Building and Property Classifications

What Constitutes a Building

In Goodland, the definition of a building is comprehensive and includes various components that serve the structure. Specifically:

• "Lighting fixtures... and all other such units that serve the building" are included as part of the building
• "Lighting systems... are included with the building, if owned"

This classification is important for understanding ownership, maintenance responsibilities, and compliance with building codes.

Infrastructure Assets

The town distinguishes between buildings and infrastructure assets:

• "Streetlights" are explicitly included as infrastructure assets
• Infrastructure assets do not include buildings, drives, or parking lots

This distinction helps clarify maintenance responsibilities between private property owners and the municipality.

Residential Lighting Regulations

Home Occupation Requirements

For residents operating businesses from their homes, Goodland has specific requirements to maintain the residential character of neighborhoods:

• "No offensive noise, vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, or glare shall be produced"
• Signs must be non-illuminated - specifically, "one (1) sign shall be permitted which shall be an unanimated, non-illuminated, flat or window sign"
• Sign size is limited to "not more than one (1) square foot attached flat to the building"

These requirements help ensure home-based businesses blend seamlessly into residential areas without disrupting neighbors.

Multi-Family Dwelling Requirements

Accessibility is a priority in multi-family housing:

• Multi-family dwellings must have "light, switches, electrical outlets, thermostats, and other environmental controls in accessible locations"
• This ensures that all residents, including those with disabilities, can easily control their living environment

Commercial and Development Lighting

Permit Applications

When applying for Improvement Location Permits in Goodland, applicants must provide specific information about signage:

• Applications must include "size, dimensions, location, and methods of illumination for signs, if applicable"
• This requirement ensures that any illuminated signage meets town standards before installation

Non-Conforming Use Changes

For properties seeking changes to non-conforming uses:

• "The applicant shall show that the proposed change will be less objectionable in external effects than the existing non-conforming use" with respect to several factors including glare
• This helps prevent lighting from becoming a nuisance to neighboring properties

Street Lighting Requirements

Planning and Installation

Street lighting in Goodland follows specific planning requirements:

• Development plans must show "the location of street lighting standards"
• "Street lights may be required to be installed at intersections throughout the subdivision"
• These installations "shall conform to the requirements of the Town Council and the public utility providing such lighting"

Intersection Safety

While specific illumination levels aren't defined in the extracts, the focus on intersection lighting demonstrates the town's commitment to safety in public spaces.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Responsibilities

As a property or business owner in Goodland, you should be aware that:

• Lighting fixtures attached to your building are considered part of the building structure
• You must ensure your property doesn't produce offensive glare that could disturb neighbors
• Any signage illumination must be included in your permit applications
• Home-based businesses cannot have illuminated signs

Balancing Modern Needs with Community Character

Goodland's approach to lighting reflects its broader values:

• Safety and accessibility are priorities
• Preserving the small-town aesthetic is important
• Balancing modern needs with historical character guides regulations

Supporting Goodland's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique challenges that small towns like Goodland face when balancing modern lighting needs with preserving community character.

As a regional manufacturer, we share Goodland's commitment to maintaining the charm and character of small-town America while providing safe, functional lighting solutions. Our experience with projects in communities similar to Goodland has given us insight into how lighting can enhance rather than detract from a town's historical ambiance.

We appreciate Goodland's thoughtful approach to balancing safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation. Our team is available as a resource for understanding lighting regulations and implementing solutions that respect the town's unique character and vision.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Goodland's vision of preserving its small-town charm while meeting the needs of its residents now and in the future.

Conclusion

Goodland's lighting regulations reflect its values as "The Little Town with a Big Heart." Though not extensive, these regulations aim to preserve the town's historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for all residents.

The focus on preventing nuisance glare, controlling sign illumination, and ensuring proper street lighting at intersections demonstrates a balanced approach to community planning.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with these requirements, particularly when applying for permits or making changes to their properties. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Goodland's charming small-town atmosphere for generations to come.

Remember that while this guide provides an overview of Goodland's lighting regulations, specific projects may have additional requirements. When in doubt, consult with local officials to ensure your lighting plans align with the town's vision and requirements.