Lighting Regulations in Kewanee, Illinois: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Standards

Introduction

Nestled in northwestern Illinois, the city of Kewanee boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1854. From its early development spurred by the railroad to its careful preservation of landmarks like the historic Potter House, Kewanee demonstrates a commitment to balancing growth with preservation of its unique character.

The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects this balance—emphasizing practical needs for safety and visibility while respecting the community's historical charm. As Kewanee has evolved, with its retail center gradually shifting from downtown to the south, its lighting standards have developed to serve both modern requirements and the preservation of the city's distinctive atmosphere.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Street Lighting:
• Street lights required at all dedicated intersections
• Maximum 500 feet between street lights on long stretches
• Light type determined by City Manager based on energy efficiency recommendations
• Commercial Lighting:
• Establishments serving alcohol must be continuously well-lit during business hours
• Adult establishments require minimum 15 footcandles illumination evenly distributed at ground level
• Beer gardens/outdoor eating areas need adequate electric illumination after dark
• Light Trespass Controls:
• Parking area lighting must reflect away from adjoining properties
• Outdoor eating area lighting must be shielded to reflect away from adjoining properties and streets
• Operations producing intense light must be contained within enclosed buildings
• Prohibited Lighting:
• No flashing lights, strobe lights in beer gardens/outdoor eating areas
• No high-intensity intermittent lights as "eye catchers"
• No lighting arrangements that obscure visibility in establishments serving alcohol

Street Lighting Standards

Placement Requirements

The city of Kewanee maintains specific standards for street lighting placement to ensure public safety. According to municipal regulations, every dedicated street intersection must have a street light. This fundamental requirement ensures that key navigation points throughout the city remain properly illuminated.

For streets with significant distances between intersections, additional standards apply. If the distance between intersections exceeds 500 feet, street lights must be placed so that no stretch exceeds 500 feet without illumination. This maximum spacing requirement helps maintain consistent lighting throughout Kewanee's roadways.

Selection and Installation Process

The City Manager or their designee determines the type of street light installed, basing decisions on recommendations from the utility company regarding energy efficiency. This approach reflects Kewanee's commitment to balancing illumination needs with energy conservation.

Budget and Residential Participation

Implementation of street lighting is subject to budget considerations, with an interesting community participation element. Priority for new lights and poles is given to areas where residents contribute toward initial installation costs. This policy encourages neighborhood involvement in infrastructure improvements while extending limited municipal resources.

Commercial Establishment Lighting Requirements

Alcohol-Serving Establishments

Kewanee's regulations for establishments serving alcohol include specific lighting standards:

• Continuous lighting required during all business hours
• Must use natural light or artificial white lights that render all interior areas clearly visible
• No lighting arrangements permitted that would obscure visibility from the street
• Willful obscuring of visibility may result in license revocation

These requirements reflect the city's commitment to public safety and regulatory oversight.

Adult Use Establishments

For adult use establishments, Kewanee sets precise illumination standards:

• Minimum illumination of 15 footcandles evenly distributed at ground level throughout the premises
• Detailed site plans must specify location of overhead lighting fixtures
• Lighting must be arranged to ensure proper visibility throughout the establishment

Outdoor Dining Areas

Beer gardens and outdoor eating areas operating after dark must adhere to specific lighting requirements:

• Adequate illumination with electric lights required
• All illumination must be arranged and shielded to direct light away from adjoining properties and streets
• Prohibition on flashing lights, strobe lights, or similar lighting in these areas

Light Trespass Regulations

Preventing Light Pollution

Kewanee demonstrates concern for light trespass through several regulations addressing how light affects neighboring properties:

• Parking area lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining properties
• Industrial operations producing intense light must be contained within enclosed buildings
• Light from industrial operations must not be visible beyond property boundaries when adjacent to residential or business districts

These measures help protect residential areas from unwanted light pollution while allowing necessary illumination for safety and functionality.

Planning and Enforcement

The city requires detailed site plans for various developments that must include:

• Location and design of exterior lighting sources
• In some cases, illumination levels in foot-candles at ground level
• Compliance with performance standards regarding glare

Special Purpose Lighting

Flag Lighting in Cemeteries

Kewanee includes specific regulations for flag lighting in cemetery settings:

• Hardware for flag lighting must be mounted directly on the flag pole
• Lighting must not project over burial spaces, aisleways, or roads
• Installation must not interfere with grounds maintenance activities such as mowing or trimming

Signage Lighting

The city defines and regulates several types of illuminated signage:

• Backlighted Letters: Illuminated reverse channel letters configured to produce a halo lighting effect
• Electrical Signs: Signs containing electrical wiring (distinct from those illuminated by exterior light sources)
• Prohibition on signs with strobe lights or high-intensity intermittent lighting used as "eye catchers"
• Restrictions on attaching signs to utility poles, public lights, or street lights

Electrical Standards for Lighting

Kewanee maintains specific electrical code requirements that affect lighting installation:

• Use of number 14 AWG wire is limited to switched lighting circuits only
• This gauge wire cannot be used for circuits serving sockets or other receptacles
• Underground electric distribution circuits must comply with national safety standards and Illinois Commerce Commission regulations

These technical requirements ensure the safety and reliability of lighting installations throughout the city.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

Property owners in Kewanee should consider these lighting regulations during any construction or renovation:

• Submit detailed site plans showing all exterior lighting sources when required
• Ensure lighting is designed to prevent spillover onto neighboring properties
• For businesses serving alcohol or with outdoor dining, pay special attention to specific illumination requirements
• Remember that certain types of flashing or high-intensity lights are prohibited in various contexts

Understanding Enforcement

The regulations show Kewanee's commitment to:

• Protecting residential areas from unwanted glare
• Ensuring adequate lighting for public safety
• Maintaining visibility in licensed establishments
• Balancing modern lighting needs with community character

Supporting Kewanee's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Kewanee's commitment to balancing practical lighting needs with community character. With our understanding of Midwestern architectural styles and lighting requirements, we appreciate Kewanee's thoughtful approach to illumination standards.

Communities like Kewanee face unique challenges in maintaining their historical charm while meeting modern lighting requirements. As lighting professionals, we value the careful balance Kewanee has struck between safety, functionality, and preservation of community character.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with the energy efficiency considerations reflected in Kewanee's regulations. We see ourselves not just as manufacturers, but as educational partners helping communities navigate lighting standards and historical preservation goals.

Conclusion

Kewanee's lighting regulations reflect the city's unique character and priorities. From ensuring properly illuminated streets to preventing light trespass between properties, these standards help maintain both safety and quality of life for residents.

The balance of technical requirements with community considerations demonstrates Kewanee's thoughtful approach to urban development. As lighting technology continues to evolve, these regulations provide a framework that honors the city's historical character while embracing modern standards.

Property owners and businesses operating in Kewanee can contribute to the community's distinctive atmosphere by understanding and following these lighting guidelines, ensuring that the city remains both well-lit and true to its unique heritage.