Lighting Regulations in Kenton, Ohio: Preserving Historical Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction: Kenton's Lighting Legacy

Founded in 1845 and named after frontiersman Simon Kenton, the city of Kenton serves as the county seat of Hardin County, Ohio. With approximately 8,000 residents spread across its 5.13 square miles, this charming small town takes pride in its rich historical character and architectural heritage dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Kenton's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving its historical identity while meeting the practical needs of a modern community. The city's regulations balance safety, functionality, and aesthetic considerations that complement its architectural heritage and rural setting.

Quick Reference Guide to Kenton's Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here's a quick overview of Kenton's key lighting regulations:

• Street and Walkway Lighting: Subdivision street lights must be placed no more than 250 feet apart
• Parking Areas: Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining properties
• Pool/Pond Lighting: Underwater lights required for pools 5+ feet deep; exterior lights must direct away from neighbors
• Historic District Signs: Should be lit when possible with traditional-style lighting
• Security Lighting: Permitted to be directed onto buildings
• Sign Lighting: No moving or flashing lights permitted

Street and Walkway Lighting Requirements

Subdivision Development Standards

When developing new subdivisions in Kenton, lighting is an important consideration that must be addressed in construction plans:

• The subdivider is responsible for providing the equipment, labor, and materials for:
• Trenching
• Backfilling
• Conduit installation (where necessary)

City Provisions and Placement Requirements

While developers handle the infrastructure, the City of Kenton takes responsibility for certain aspects:

• The City pays for the street lights themselves
• Lights must be installed at each street intersection within the subdivision
• Standard AEP street lights must be positioned no more than 250 feet apart

Underground Requirements

Modern aesthetic standards and safety considerations dictate that:

• New subdivision street lighting must have all associated wiring underground
• All telephone, electric, and street lighting wires, conduits, and cables must be constructed underground
• Exception: Cases where the City determines that topographic, bedrock, or underground water conditions would result in excessive cost to the subdivider

Property and Building Lighting Regulations

Parking Area Requirements

For businesses and properties with off-street parking areas:

• All lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining premises in the district
• While the Downtown Business District (B-2) is exempt from many parking requirements, voluntarily established parking facilities must still comply with the lighting reflection standards

Security Lighting

Kenton recognizes the importance of security while maintaining aesthetic standards:

• Security lighting is permitted to be directed onto buildings
• No other lighting is permitted unless required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Pool and Pond Lighting Requirements

Safety Standards

Pool safety is a priority in Kenton's building code:

• Any pool with a water depth of 5 feet or more must have at least one underwater light
• The underwater light must be:
• Fully grounded
• Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. approved
• Located in the deepest end of the pool
• Illuminated after sundown when the pool is in use

Neighboring Property Consideration

To minimize light pollution and respect neighboring properties:

• Exterior lights used to illuminate pools or ponds must be arranged and shaded to reflect light away from:
• Adjoining premises
• Public streets

Historic District and Signage Lighting

Kenton Historic District Guidelines

The city's commitment to preserving its historical character is evident in its lighting requirements for the Historic District:

• Signs in the Kenton Historic District should be lit if at all possible
• Lighting for these signs should be of a traditional style
• Both internal and external lighting options will be considered

General Sign Lighting Restrictions

Throughout Kenton, signage lighting must follow these guidelines:

• No sign or light shall move, flash, or make noise
• Exception: Indicators of time or temperature are permitted to move

Construction and Safety Lighting

Temporary Safety Lighting

During construction, excavation, or repair work:

• All excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction must be adequately protected by suitable barricades and warning lights at night
• These precautions are required so the condition will not reasonably prove dangerous to life or limb
• It is prohibited to destroy, remove, damage or extinguish any barricade or warning light placed for public protection

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Your Lighting Project

When considering lighting projects in Kenton, property owners should:

• Review the specific requirements for your property type and zone
• Include lighting layouts in permit applications (especially for pools and ponds)
• Consider historical context when planning lighting in or near the Historic District
• Ensure all exterior lighting is positioned to minimize impact on neighboring properties

Permit Requirements

Certain projects require lighting information as part of the permit application process:

• Pool or pond construction permits must include lighting layout and estimated cost
• Trailer park applications must detail complete electric service installation, wire service outlets, and lighting facilities

Supporting Kenton's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we deeply appreciate Kenton's commitment to preserving its historical character while embracing modern lighting needs. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we understand the unique architectural heritage that makes communities like Kenton special.

Our team recognizes the balance Kenton strikes between safety requirements, functional needs, and aesthetic priorities that complement the city's historic 19th and early 20th century architecture. We're particularly attuned to the lighting considerations that enhance rather than detract from historical districts.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations, helping to maintain the distinctive character that defines Kenton's identity. Our experience with projects that respect community character and local regulations positions us as a valuable partner for Kenton residents and businesses alike.

Conclusion

Kenton's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving historical character and ensuring public safety. From street lighting to historic district considerations, these standards help maintain the city's small-town charm while providing adequate illumination for residents and visitors.

Property owners should approach lighting projects with an understanding of both the technical requirements and the aesthetic considerations that shape Kenton's unique identity. By balancing modern needs with historical preservation, Kenton continues to honor its rich heritage while looking toward the future.

Whether you're developing a new subdivision, renovating a historic property, or simply updating your home's exterior lighting, understanding these regulations ensures your project will contribute positively to Kenton's distinctive character and charm.