Lighting Regulations in Le Mars, Iowa: Guidelines for The Ice Cream Capital of the World

Introduction

Le Mars, Iowa—proudly known as the "Ice Cream Capital of the World"—balances its rich historical character with modern development needs. Founded in 1869 and home to Wells Enterprises (the largest single-location ice cream manufacturer globally), this northwest Iowa community of approximately 10,571 residents maintains specific lighting regulations that reflect its commitment to safety, aesthetics, and community harmony.

The city's lighting regulations aim to preserve Le Mars' unique character while ensuring functional, safe infrastructure for residents and businesses. These standards help maintain the balance between growth and preservation that defines this progressive yet traditional community.

Quick Reference Guide

• General Lighting Rule: All lighting must be hooded or shielded to direct light away from neighboring properties and public rights-of-way
• Street Lighting: Must conform to city standards for pole design and fixture types
• Adult Businesses: Minimum illumination of one foot-candle measured at floor level
• Wireless Facilities: Towers should not exceed heights requiring artificial lighting; lighting only as required by law
• Tree Maintenance: Trees must be pruned to avoid obstructing street lamps
• Airport Areas: Special lighting requirements apply to structures near airports

General Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Light Direction

The most broadly applicable lighting regulation in Le Mars states:

• All lighting must be hooded or shielded to reflect light away from:
• Abutting properties
• Neighboring properties
• Public rights-of-way

This requirement helps prevent light trespass, which occurs when unwanted light spills onto neighboring properties. Proper shielding directs illumination where needed while minimizing intrusion into adjacent spaces.

Street Lamp Visibility

Property owners have specific responsibilities regarding vegetation:

• Tree branches overhanging streets or public rights-of-way must be pruned to avoid obstructing light from any street lamp
• This maintenance responsibility falls to owners or occupants of properties bordering streets, alleys, or public places

Protection of Public Lighting

The city code explicitly prohibits tampering with public lighting:

• It is unlawful to remove, destroy, or extinguish any lamp or light placed on streets or alleys for safety purposes
• This prohibition extends to removing barricades, guards, or other safety devices
• Such actions are only permissible with consent from the person controlling the lighting

Business-Specific Requirements

Adult Cabaret Lighting Standards

Adult entertainment venues have specific illumination requirements:

• Minimum illumination of one foot-candle measured at floor level
• Overhead lighting must be sufficient to illuminate all customer-accessible areas
• This illumination must be maintained whenever any customer is present

Signage Lighting Restrictions

For certain types of signage, specific limitations apply:

• Portable signs cannot have attached lighting or lights shining on them
• Illumination is only permitted via constant internal lighting

Telecommunications and Infrastructure Lighting

Wireless Facilities and Towers

Wireless telecommunications facilities have several specific lighting regulations:

• Towers should not exceed heights that would require artificial lighting under federal, state, or local laws
• Facilities "shall not be artificially lighted or marked, except as required by law"
• If lighting is legally required, it must be as unobtrusive and inoffensive as possible while meeting regulations
• Applications for new towers must:
• Include lighting details in the site plan
• Determine if FAA compliance requires lighting
• Submit all FAA filings and correspondence if applicable

Compliance with Changing Regulations

Holders of special use permits for wireless facilities must:

• Conform to any changes in lighting regulations within 24 months
• Adhere to all applicable federal and state regulations, including FAA and FCC requirements

Street Lighting Standards

Le Mars maintains consistency in street lighting through specific standards:

• All street lights must be installed according to city standards and procedures
• Street light poles must use the standard design established by the city
• Fixtures must be of the standard type approved by the city
• Exceptions to these requirements require a specific waiver from the City Council

Airport Safety Lighting

Hazard Marking Requirements

Properties near airports have additional lighting obligations:

• Owners of structures, objects, natural vegetation, or terrain that create airport hazards must:
• Install, operate, and maintain markers and lights necessary for aircraft navigation safety
• Bear the expense of these hazardous markers and lights
• These requirements help maintain safety in airport approach zones

Construction and Temporary Lighting

Safety Barriers and Warning Lights

For construction sites and temporary hazards:

• Adequate warning lights must be placed to protect the public
• These lights must meet standards specified by the City
• They must be positioned alongside appropriate barricades and fencing

Supporting Le Mars' Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting shares Le Mars' commitment to balancing historical preservation with modern infrastructure needs. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we understand the importance of lighting that enhances community character while meeting functional requirements.

We appreciate Le Mars' approach to lighting regulations that protect the city's unique status as the "Ice Cream Capital of the World" while ensuring safety and functionality. Our expertise in architectural lighting solutions aligns with Le Mars' vision of progressive community development that respects historical character.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations. We're committed to helping property owners understand local requirements and implement appropriate solutions that enhance safety, aesthetics, and compliance.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Tips

When planning exterior lighting for your Le Mars property, remember these key points:

• Shield all exterior lighting to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties
• Ensure trees and vegetation don't block street lights on adjacent public ways
• For businesses, verify you meet any industry-specific lighting requirements
• Never tamper with public safety lighting on streets or near hazards
• Check if your project falls under special zoning areas with additional requirements

When to Consult Professionals

Consider consulting lighting professionals when:

• Planning new construction or major renovations
• Installing exterior lighting for commercial properties
• Addressing neighbor complaints about light trespass
• Needing to balance historic character with modern lighting needs

Conclusion

Le Mars' lighting regulations reflect its identity as a progressive community that values both growth and preservation. The city's approach focuses on preventing light trespass, maintaining consistent street lighting, and ensuring proper illumination for public safety.

While these regulations may not be comprehensive for all lighting situations, they provide clear guidance for common scenarios. Property owners should always consult with city officials when planning significant lighting projects to ensure compliance with current standards.

Through thoughtful lighting practices, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Le Mars' distinctive character as the welcoming and vibrant "Ice Cream Capital of the World."