Lighting Regulations in Jersey County, Illinois: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Safety Standards

Introduction

Jersey County, Illinois, established in 1839, is steeped in rich historical heritage. Known for its rural landscapes, small-town charm, and historic architecture, including the notable Jersey County Courthouse, the county takes pride in preserving its distinctive character while adapting to modern needs.

The county's approach to lighting regulations reflects this balance – ensuring safety and functionality while maintaining the aesthetic integrity that makes the area special. These regulations are designed to preserve the county's historical ambiance while meeting contemporary standards for safety and energy efficiency.

As we explore Jersey County's lighting regulations, we'll see how they align with the community's values of historical preservation and thoughtful development.

Quick Reference Guide to Jersey County Lighting Regulations

• Jersey County has adopted the Illinois Energy Conservation Code, 2018 edition (effective July 1, 2019) for regulating energy-efficient lighting systems
• Outdoor lighting should be shielded and downcast to prevent light spill onto adjacent properties
• Lighting should be installed primarily for security and safety purposes
• Towers cannot be illuminated unless required by the FAA or other federal/state authorities
• Signs must be illuminated by electrical means only and comply with the National Electrical Code
• Wind energy projects must use minimal lighting that complies with FAA regulations

Energy Conservation and Building Code Requirements

Adopted Standards

Jersey County has formally adopted the Illinois Energy Conservation Code, 2018 edition (with amendments, effective July 1, 2019) as its Energy Conservation Code. This code governs energy-efficient building elements including:

• Building envelopes
• Mechanical systems
• Lighting systems
• Power systems

Electrical System Requirements

The county's building code requires that all electrical systems, including lighting fixtures, must be:

• Properly installed
• Properly wired
• Maintained in working condition

The county has also adopted the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101, 2014 edition) published by the National Fire Protection Association, which contains additional safety requirements that may affect lighting installations.

Outdoor Lighting Regulations

General Requirements

Jersey County's outdoor lighting regulations emphasize minimizing light pollution while maintaining necessary safety and security. Key requirements include:

• Lighting should be installed for security and safety purposes only
• Lighting must be shielded and downcast to prevent light from spilling onto adjacent parcels
• All lighting (except when required by FCC or FAA) should be shielded so that no glare extends substantially beyond property boundaries

Tower Lighting Restrictions

The county has specific regulations regarding the illumination of towers:

• Towers shall not be illuminated by artificial means
• Towers shall not display strobe or flashing lights
• Exception: Illumination is permitted only when required by the Federal Aviation Administration or other federal/state authorities

Sign Lighting Regulations

Illumination Requirements

The county's sign regulations include several provisions related to lighting:

• Signs must not be illuminated by other than electrical means
• All electrical devices and wiring must be installed according to the National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Open spark or flame illumination is prohibited unless specifically approved
• Light from signs must not interfere with vehicle or air traffic
• If sign lighting obstructs traffic vision, the Administrator will contact the company to address the issue

Permit Requirements

• Permits are required for neon outline lighting or skeleton lighting
• Permit fees are based on estimated value of the job
• Installing illuminated signs without proper permits results in doubled fees

Sign Type Restrictions

• In business and manufacturing zones, non-illuminated wall signs on buildings or structures are permitted if they are not more than 20 square feet in sign area
• Real estate signs must be non-illuminated and removed within ten days after the closing date of a sales contract or effective date of a lease

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) Lighting

FAA Compliance and Minimal Lighting

For wind energy projects, Jersey County has established specific lighting requirements:

• WECS projects must utilize minimal lighting that complies with applicable FAA regulations
• Where available and approved by the FAA, projects should install Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems (ADLS) or similar technology
• These systems are required to reduce light pollution and visual impacts caused by WECS towers

Monitoring and Reporting Requirements

• WECS operators must submit annual reports that include:
• Complaints received concerning lighting
• Resolution of these complaints
• This reporting requirement ensures ongoing compliance and community satisfaction

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Code Requirements

Property owners in Jersey County should be aware that lighting installations must comply with the Illinois Energy Conservation Code (2018 edition) and the National Electrical Code. These codes establish standards for energy efficiency and electrical safety.

Outdoor Lighting Considerations

When installing outdoor lighting, remember:

• Focus on security and safety needs rather than decorative purposes
• Use shielded fixtures that direct light downward
• Ensure light does not spill onto neighboring properties
• Avoid any lighting that creates glare beyond your property boundaries

Sign Installation Guidelines

Business owners should pay particular attention to sign lighting requirements:

• Obtain proper permits before installing illuminated signs
• Ensure all electrical components meet National Electrical Code standards
• Verify that sign lighting doesn't create visibility issues for traffic

Supporting Jersey County's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the unique challenges faced by communities like Jersey County that seek to balance modern lighting needs with historical preservation. With manufacturing roots dating back to 1918, we appreciate the importance of maintaining architectural character while incorporating necessary safety features.

Our experience with projects in historically significant areas has taught us that thoughtful lighting design can enhance, rather than detract from, a community's distinctive character. We're committed to supporting Jersey County's vision through:

• Education on lighting regulations and best practices
• Expertise in solutions that respect historical aesthetics
• Understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs
• Commitment to responsible lighting practices that minimize light pollution

We recognize that Jersey County's approach to lighting reflects its values of historical preservation and thoughtful development, and we're proud to serve as a resource for community members navigating these regulations.

Conclusion

Jersey County's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By focusing on shielded lighting that minimizes light pollution and following established building codes, the county maintains its distinctive rural and historic atmosphere.

Property owners and businesses can contribute to this vision by installing lighting that meets both the letter and spirit of these regulations – providing necessary illumination while respecting the county's architectural heritage and rural character.

Understanding and following these lighting guidelines helps ensure that Jersey County remains a place where history and modern needs coexist harmoniously, maintaining the qualities that make this community special for future generations.