Lighting Regulations in Heyworth, Illinois: Balancing Rural Charm with Modern Illumination Needs

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of McLean County, Heyworth, Illinois, is a charming village with roots dating back to the early 19th century. Originally inhabited by Kickapoo Native Americans and later developed by settlers like Campbell Wakefield, Heyworth has grown into a community of approximately 3,000 residents while maintaining its distinctive rural character.

Today, Heyworth strategically balances preservation and growth, creating lighting regulations that reflect this commitment. These standards aim to ensure safety and functionality while preserving the village's small-town atmosphere and protecting its historical heritage.

Quick Reference Guide to Heyworth's Lighting Regulations

Before diving into the details, here are the key lighting requirements in Heyworth:

• Streetlight Specifications: HPS (high pressure sodium), 100 watts, mounted 25 feet above street level
• Residential & Commercial: Lighting must be directed away from residences to avoid nuisance
• Sign Illumination: Light must not beam onto residential buildings or into streets
• Exterior Lighting: Must be designed to minimize glare and adverse impacts on neighboring properties
• Existing Infrastructure: Use of existing utility poles and light standards is strongly encouraged
• Special Facilities: WECS (Wind Energy Conversion Systems) and other special uses have specific lighting requirements

Residential Lighting Requirements

Basic Residential Standards

Heyworth requires adequate artificial lighting for all occupied dwellings, including residential units, rooming units, hotels, and motels. This fundamental requirement ensures safety and livability for all residents.

Home-Based Business Considerations

For those operating home occupations, regulations specifically prohibit producing offensive glare that might affect neighboring properties. This requirement helps maintain the peaceful residential character of neighborhoods while still allowing for home-based entrepreneurship.

Light Trespass Prevention

A consistent theme throughout Heyworth's lighting regulations is the prevention of light trespass. Lighting fixtures, particularly in off-street parking areas, must be directed away from residences in a manner that doesn't create a nuisance.

Commercial & Public Lighting Standards

Exterior Lighting Design Principles

Commercial properties must carefully design their exterior lighting with several key objectives:

• Maximize traffic safety
• Ensure compatibility with neighboring properties
• Minimize glare effects
• Reduce economic impact on surrounding properties

These balanced requirements reflect Heyworth's commitment to supporting business needs while protecting community character.

Signage Illumination Restrictions

Heyworth has specific regulations regarding illuminated signs:

• Light Direction Control: Direct rays from illuminated signs must not beam upon residential buildings, residential districts, or public streets
• Confusion Prevention: Signs with illumination that might be confused with traffic signals are prohibited
• Documentation Requirements: Freestanding sign lighting requires a plan showing beam spread foot-candle levels
• Installation Standards: Must prevent spillover or glare onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-way

Infrastructure Considerations

The village strongly encourages using existing utility poles and light standards whenever practicable, while discouraging the installation of additional utility poles. This approach minimizes visual clutter and preserves the aesthetic appeal of the community.

Development & Subdivision Requirements

Street Lighting Placement

Developers must provide streetlights at specific locations:

• Every intersection
• Every T-intersection
• The end of each cul-de-sac
• Mid-block when intersections exceed 400 feet apart

Technical Specifications for Street Lighting

Heyworth has established clear technical requirements for street lighting:

• Light Type: High Pressure Sodium (HPS)
• Wattage: 100 watts
• Mounting Height: Approximately 25 feet above street level
• Pole Materials: Wood, concrete, or metal
• Construction Standards: Must meet power company requirements

Infrastructure Planning

For future maintenance and modifications, Schedule 40 PVC pipe conduits (minimum 1½" diameter) must be installed beneath all driveways, pavements, walks, and other areas where buried electrical wires for streetlights may be installed.

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS)

Wind energy facilities have specific lighting requirements:

• FAA Compliance: Must follow FAA guidelines while using the lowest intensity allowed
• Color Selection: Red lights preferred for night use
• Visual Impact: Must use lighting alternatives that cause the least visual disturbance
• Light Containment: All lighting must be shielded to prevent glare beyond facility boundaries
• Restrictions: No artificial lighting except as required by FAA or other air safety authorities

Cannabis Business Establishments

These facilities must install security lighting as required by state regulations and local codes to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and the surrounding area.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When developing property or modifying existing structures in Heyworth, consider lighting requirements early in your planning process. Site plans must include the location of all proposed lighting fixtures.

The Impact of Proper Lighting

Thoughtful lighting design goes beyond mere compliance—it enhances safety, improves property values, and contributes to the overall appeal of the community. Properly directed lighting minimizes conflict with neighbors while providing necessary illumination.

Seeking Guidance

Before installing new exterior lighting systems, property owners should consult with village officials to ensure compliance with local regulations. This proactive approach can prevent costly modifications later.

Supporting Heyworth's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with community character preservation. Our experience working with communities like Heyworth has given us insight into how lighting regulations support both practical requirements and aesthetic goals.

We appreciate Heyworth's approach to maintaining its small-town charm while ensuring adequate lighting for safety and functionality. Our team values the village's commitment to preventing light pollution and preserving its rural character—priorities that align with our own dedication to responsible lighting practices.

As a resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, Bock Lighting can help property owners understand technical requirements while respecting the unique character that makes places like Heyworth special. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs allows us to support communities in maintaining their distinctive identity.

Conclusion

Heyworth's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to maintaining a balance between modern needs and its cherished rural character. From specific technical requirements for streetlights to thoughtful guidelines for preventing light trespass, these regulations help preserve the village's appeal while ensuring safety and functionality.

Property owners who understand and embrace these lighting standards contribute to the community's overall quality of life. By following these guidelines, residents and businesses alike help maintain Heyworth's distinctive character as it continues to grow and evolve.

Whether you're a longtime resident or considering development in this charming village, appreciating the purpose behind these lighting regulations helps support Heyworth's vision for its future.