Lighting Regulations in Johnstown, Pennsylvania: Balancing Historic Character with Modern Needs

Introduction: Johnstown's Lighting Legacy

Nestled in the valleys of the Conemaugh and Stonycreek rivers, Johnstown, Pennsylvania carries a rich historical tapestry dating back to its founding in 1800 by Joseph Schantz (Joseph Johns). The city's development is deeply intertwined with its industrial past, particularly the growth of the steel industry in the 1870s that attracted diverse immigrants and shaped its urban landscape.

This industrial heritage is reflected in Johnstown's architectural character and continues to influence its approach to urban planning - including lighting regulations. As early as 1891, city records show agreements with the "Johnstown Electric Light Co. for arc lights," demonstrating the city's long-standing commitment to public illumination.

Today, Johnstown's lighting regulations aim to preserve the city's historic charm while addressing modern needs for safety, functionality, and commercial visibility.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting regulations in Johnstown:

• Off-street parking lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining properties
• Electronic message displays are permitted in C1, C2, M1, M2, and M3 Districts but prohibited in National Historic Districts
• Maximum brightness limits for electronic displays: 5,000 nits during daytime and 500 nits at night
• Sign illumination must be effectively shielded to prevent glare or light trespass
• Flashing or intermittent lights are generally prohibited except for public service information
• Glaring light that affects neighboring properties is prohibited in several zoning districts

General Property Lighting Requirements

Preventing Light Trespass

Johnstown's regulations emphasize the importance of containing light within property boundaries. This approach balances the need for adequate illumination with respect for neighboring properties.

The code specifically states that lighting used for parking areas "shall be so arranged as to reflect the light away from adjoining properties." This requirement helps minimize light pollution and prevents unwanted illumination from affecting residential areas.

Managing Glare

Multiple zoning districts explicitly prohibit "glaring light" that is noticeable from outside property boundaries:

• In C1 Neighborhood Shopping Districts, businesses must not create objectionable glaring light
• Industrial zones (including M2 Industrial Service and Distribution District) prohibit noxious or offensive glaring light
• Several districts specify that "No smoke, fumes, odor, dust, noise, vibration, or glaring light is noticeable from outside any lot in this District"

These regulations reflect Johnstown's commitment to maintaining visual comfort and preventing light nuisance between adjacent properties.

Tree Maintenance for Street Lighting

Property owners have specific responsibilities regarding street lighting effectiveness. The code requires that "any person or persons owning or occupying real estate bordering on any street upon which property there may be trees, to prune such trees in such a manner that they will not obstruct or shade the street lights."

This regulation ensures that public lighting remains effective and unobstructed, contributing to overall community safety.

Signage and Display Lighting Regulations

Electronic Message Displays

Johnstown has established clear guidelines for electronic message displays (EMDs):

• Permitted locations: C1, C2, M1, M2, and M3 Districts
• Prohibited locations: Any site within registered National Historic Districts
• Display requirements:
• No animation, flashing, scrolling, or moving elements
• No video content or visual dissolves/fades
• Static messages displayed for minimum of eight seconds
• Complete messages must fit on one screen (no scrolling)
• Brightness controls:
• Automatic brightness controls keyed to ambient light
• Maximum 5,000 nits during daytime
• Maximum 500 nits at night

Projected Light Displays

Similar regulations apply to projected light displays:

• Permitted locations: C1, C2, C3, M1, M2, and M3 Districts
• Prohibited locations: Registered National Historic Districts
• Content restrictions:
• May only advertise on-premise goods/services
• May display public service announcements, event information, or time/date/temperature
• No off-premise advertisements
• Display requirements:
• No animation, flashing, or scrolling
• Static messages for minimum eight seconds
• Complete messages on one screen

General Sign Illumination

The code provides several important requirements for illuminated signs:

• Signs must be "effectively shielded" to prevent light from being directed at traveled roadways
• No sign may have "such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of drivers"
• Illumination must not interfere with or obscure official traffic signs or signals
• Flashing, intermittent, or moving lights are prohibited (except for public service information like time/temperature)

These requirements balance the legitimate need for visible signage with traffic safety and aesthetic considerations.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Zoning-Specific Requirements

Johnstown's lighting regulations vary by zoning district. Property owners should first identify their specific zoning designation before planning any lighting installations or modifications.

Compliance for Business Signage

For businesses, understanding the distinction between allowed and prohibited lighting displays is crucial. While electronic and projected displays are permitted in commercial and industrial zones, they are expressly prohibited in the National Historic Districts.

Home Occupation Considerations

Those operating businesses from home should note that only "one non-illuminated sign no larger than 216 square inches" is permitted for home occupations.

Installation and Inspection

The code mentions electrical finals requiring that "All equipment, fixtures, and devices shall be functional" and specifically for commercial properties, testing of emergency lighting. Ensuring proper installation and maintenance is essential for code compliance.

Supporting Johnstown's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Johnstown's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern lighting technologies. As a regional company familiar with Western Pennsylvania's architectural heritage, Bock understands the balance Johnstown seeks to maintain between historic preservation and contemporary needs.

Communities like Johnstown with rich industrial histories benefit from lighting solutions that complement their architectural character. Bock Lighting's experience with historic districts throughout the region provides a resource for property owners seeking to meet local regulations while honoring Johnstown's distinctive character.

Bock's approach aligns with Johnstown's values – respecting the past while looking toward the future. The company offers educational resources to help property owners understand lighting regulations and make informed choices that contribute positively to community aesthetics.

Conclusion

Johnstown's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving its historic character while meeting modern needs. Through careful restrictions on light trespass, glare control, and display lighting, the city maintains its distinctive identity while ensuring safety and functionality.

Property owners and businesses can support this vision by understanding and following the specific requirements applicable to their zoning districts. With thoughtful compliance, lighting can enhance Johnstown's unique architectural heritage rather than detract from it.

By balancing preservation with progress, Johnstown's approach to lighting regulations helps maintain the city's special character – a character shaped by its industrial past and continuing to evolve with its future.