Lighting Regulations in Hagerstown, Indiana: A Guide to Municipal and Utility Lighting Services

Introduction

Nestled in the picturesque Nettle Creek valley, Hagerstown, Indiana carries a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1832. This charming community, with just 1,681 residents as of the 2020 census, maintains a delicate balance between preserving its historical character and providing modern amenities to its residents.

Hagerstown's approach to lighting reflects its community values and small-town atmosphere. The town's lighting services are primarily managed through its Electric Utility, with specific provisions for security lighting, outdoor lighting, and municipal street lighting. These services help maintain the town's aesthetic priorities while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide

• Security Lighting: 175-watt, 120-volt, mercury-vapor luminaries available for $6.85 per unit monthly
• Outdoor Lighting: 7,000 lumen mercury or sodium vapor equivalent lamps with photoelectric controls
• Street Lighting: Installed and maintained by the Electric Utility with installation based on Town Council authorization
• Lighting Equipment Ownership: All lighting equipment owned and maintained by the Electric Utility
• Contract Requirements: Vary by customer type (1-5 year minimum terms)

Security Light Service

Availability and Eligibility

The Hagerstown Electric Utility offers security light service to any customer within its service area. This service is designed specifically for outdoor lighting and operates as a private dusk-to-dawn service.

Technical Specifications

Security light service in Hagerstown includes:

• Fixture Type: 175-watt, 120-volt, mercury-vapor-type luminary
• Control Mechanism: Photoelectric cell for automatic operation
• Monthly Cost: $6.85 per unit
• Maintenance: Fully installed, operated, and maintained by the Utility

Service Flexibility

The town and Utility maintain the right to change the character of service if another type is preferable, provided it remains similar in nature to the current service offerings. This allows the Utility to adapt to new technologies while maintaining consistent service.

Outdoor Lighting Provisions

Standard Installation

Hagerstown's Electric Utility provides outdoor lighting with specific requirements:

• Lamp Standard: 7,000 lumen mercury or sodium vapor equivalent
• Control System: Photoelectric relay for automatic operation
• Mounting: Luminaire with upsweep arm not exceeding six feet in length
• Installation Requirements: Service supplied from existing pole and secondary facilities

New Installation Considerations

When new facilities must be installed by the Electric Utility, customers should be aware that additional charges may apply beyond the regular monthly service fee. The exact specifications for these situations are determined by the Electric Utility on a case-by-case basis.

Municipal Street Lighting

Lighting Standards and Installation

The Hagerstown Electric Utility takes a methodical approach to street lighting:

• Illumination Standards: Fixture size in lumens is determined by the Electric Utility based on generally accepted standards for each location
• Consideration Factors: Width of streets, traffic conditions, and spacing of adjacent lamps all factor into lighting decisions
• Equipment Responsibility: The Electric Utility installs, operates, and maintains all street lighting equipment and appurtenances, including lamp replacements

System Modifications

Any expansion or reduction of the municipal lighting system requires direct authorization from the Town Council. This ensures community oversight of lighting infrastructure changes and associated costs.

Contracts and Service Agreements

Contract Duration Requirements

Hagerstown's Electric Utility maintains different minimum contract terms depending on customer type:

• Residential or Farm Customers: Minimum one calendar year
• Commercial or Industrial Customers: Minimum three years
• All Other Customers: Minimum five years

Ownership and Maintenance

All lighting equipment remains utility property. Specifically:

• All facilities and equipment necessary for services, including fixtures, controls, poles, transformers, secondaries, lamps, and other appurtenances are owned and maintained by the Electric Utility
• Customers are not responsible for equipment maintenance or replacement
• Fixture types must conform to the standards established by the Electric Utility

What Property Owners Should Know

Service vs. Ownership

It's important for Hagerstown property owners to understand that outdoor lighting provided by the Utility operates as a service rather than customer-owned equipment. This means:

• The Utility retains responsibility for maintenance and repairs
• The Utility determines appropriate lighting types and specifications
• Any modifications require Utility approval and potentially Town Council authorization

Planning for Lighting Needs

When considering adding outdoor or security lighting to your property:

• Contact the Electric Utility to discuss available options
• Understand the minimum contract duration for your property type
• Consider existing infrastructure, as new installations may incur additional costs
• Be aware that specifications are standardized by the Utility

Supporting Hagerstown's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the unique character and needs of communities like Hagerstown. We share Hagerstown's commitment to balancing historical preservation with modern functionality.

Bock Lighting appreciates Hagerstown's approach to community lighting, where maintaining the town's charming aesthetic is balanced with practical lighting needs. Our experience with similar small towns helps us understand the importance of lighting that complements historical architecture while providing necessary illumination.

We recognize that in communities like Hagerstown, lighting isn't just about visibility—it's about preserving the town's character and atmosphere. Bock Lighting's commitment to understanding local regulations and community standards makes us a valuable educational resource for residents navigating lighting requirements.

Our regional presence enables us to better understand the specific needs and standards of communities throughout the Midwest, including historically significant towns like Hagerstown that carefully balance preservation and progress.

Conclusion

Hagerstown's lighting regulations focus primarily on utility-provided lighting services rather than comprehensive lighting codes. The town's Electric Utility manages security lighting, outdoor lighting, and street lighting with standardized specifications and clear contract terms.

The utility-centered approach to lighting reflects Hagerstown's small-town character and practical approach to infrastructure. By maintaining ownership and control of lighting equipment, the town ensures consistent standards while providing valuable services to residents and businesses.

For property owners in Hagerstown, understanding the available lighting services and their specifications is key to meeting both practical lighting needs and contributing to the town's charming atmosphere that has been cultivated since its founding in 1832.