Lighting Regulations in Hurstbourne, Kentucky: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Public Safety

Introduction: Hurstbourne's Lighting Legacy

Hurstbourne, Kentucky, with its rich historical roots dating back to the late 18th century, maintains a delicate balance between preserving its architectural heritage and meeting modern community needs. The city's lighting regulations reflect this balance, prioritizing both public safety and the preservation of Hurstbourne's distinctive character.

Originally established around Col. Richard Clough Anderson Sr.'s 500-acre estate "Soldier's Retreat" in 1789, Hurstbourne has demonstrated a commitment to historical preservation. This dedication is evident in the excavation and rebuilding of the original estate in the 1980s, despite earlier damage from natural disasters. Since its official incorporation in 1982, Hurstbourne has developed regulations that honor its historical character while accommodating the needs of its approximately 4,300 residents.

Quick Reference Guide to Hurstbourne Lighting Regulations

• Warning Lights for Obstructions: At least two illuminated red lamps required at each end of street obstructions
• Sign Illumination: Strict regulations on which signs can be illuminated and how
• Prohibited Lighting: No changing image signs, video displays, or flashing/intermittent illumination
• Light Interference: Illuminated signs cannot cause glare or interfere with drivers' vision
• Small Cell Wireless Facilities: Must match existing light poles when attached

Warning Lights for Public Safety

Construction and Excavation Requirements

Safety is paramount when it comes to construction areas in Hurstbourne. The city code makes specific provisions for warning lights at construction sites:

• At least two illuminated red lamps must be installed and maintained during nighttime
• Lamps must be securely and conspicuously posted at or near each end of any obstruction or excavation
• For obstructions exceeding 50 feet, at least one additional lamp is required for each additional 50 feet

Responsibility for Implementation

The burden of compliance falls on anyone engaged in or employing others in excavation or obstruction of public ways. These requirements ensure that residents and visitors can safely navigate around construction areas during low-light conditions.

Sign Illumination Regulations

Church Sign Requirements

Hurstbourne allows church signs to be illuminated under specific conditions:

• Sign must be 32 square feet or less in area
• Sign height must be less than 8 feet
• Larger signs may be allowed if the church is in a district that permits larger business signs

Community Facility Signs

For larger community facility signs:

• If the sign exceeds 18 square feet in area
• Illumination is limited to lettering or motif only
• Background must remain opaque

Multi-Family Residential Signs

Illuminated identification signs for multi-family dwellings are permitted if they:

• Are attached flat on the building face
• Extend no more than 12 inches from the building surface
• Face each street bordering the site
• Are located in specific districts (R-5A, R-6, R-7, R-8, OR-1, OR-2, OR-3, or OTF)

Business Signs in Special Districts

In the OTF District:

• One freestanding sign allowed for each motel or hotel
• Sign cannot exceed 30 square feet in area
• Height cannot exceed 10 feet above ground

In the PRO and PEC Districts:

• No sign shall have flashing or intermittent illumination

Prohibited Lighting Types

Changing and Dynamic Displays

Hurstbourne strictly regulates dynamic lighting displays:

• No changing image signs are permitted (except time and temperature displays)
• Video displays are prohibited, even if projecting static messages
• Light emitting device displays that change messages through electrical, kinetic, solar, or mechanical energy are not allowed

General Illumination Restrictions

All illuminated signs in Hurstbourne must adhere to these standards:

• Must be non-flashing
• Must maintain constant intensity and color
• Cannot cause glare or vision interference for motorists
• Signs are not allowed to be illuminated except as expressly provided

Small Cell Wireless Facilities on Light Poles

Installation Guidelines

Hurstbourne has specific requirements for small cell wireless facilities that involve lighting infrastructure:

• Collocation on existing light poles is the preferred approach for siting new facilities
• Facilities must be painted and/or textured to match the existing light pole
• All city-owned street light poles must be inspected prior to installation
• Poles must meet safety and load-bearing capability standards

Replacement Requirements

If existing poles don't meet standards:

• The applicant must replace the pole at their own cost
• Any existing lighting fixture must be reinstalled on the new pole at applicant's cost

What Property Owners Should Know

Departmental Oversight

Understanding which city department handles different lighting elements can help property owners navigate questions or concerns:

• The Public Safety Department maintains and repairs street lights
• The Public Works Department is responsible for landscape lighting

Compliance Considerations

When planning new construction or renovations in Hurstbourne, property owners should:

• Consult city codes early in the design process
• Pay special attention to sign illumination restrictions
• Consider the historical character of Hurstbourne when selecting lighting features
• Remember that illumination is generally restricted unless specifically permitted

Supporting Hurstbourne's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Hurstbourne's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern technology. With extensive experience in communities that value their architectural heritage, Bock understands the importance of lighting that enhances rather than detracts from a city's unique identity.

Bock's appreciation for Hurstbourne's balance of safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation allows us to serve as a resource for residents and businesses navigating lighting regulations. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs helps maintain the character that makes Hurstbourne special.

As a community partner, Bock focuses on sustainable and responsible lighting practices that align with Hurstbourne's vision for its future development while honoring its historical past.

Conclusion

Hurstbourne's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring public safety and functionality. The focus on controlled illumination—particularly for signs and public infrastructure—demonstrates the city's balanced approach to development.

Property owners and businesses in Hurstbourne should familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance and to contribute positively to the city's aesthetic vision. By understanding and following these guidelines, community members help preserve the distinctive character that makes Hurstbourne a special place to live, work, and visit.

Through thoughtful lighting choices that respect both history and modernity, Hurstbourne continues to honor its rich heritage while meeting the needs of its community today.