Lighting Regulations in Lockport, Illinois: Balancing Historic Preservation with Modern Lighting Standards

Introduction: Illuminating Lockport's Rich Heritage

Nestled along the historic Illinois and Michigan Canal, Lockport stands as a testament to Illinois' rich transportation history. Founded in 1830, this city played a pivotal role in connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River, earning it the nickname "the city that made Chicago famous."

Lockport's commitment to preserving its historical character while embracing modern development is reflected in its thoughtful approach to lighting regulations. As home to the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor (the nation's first national heritage corridor), the city takes special care to ensure that lighting enhances both safety and the distinct architectural character that makes Lockport special.

Quick Reference Guide to Lockport's Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here are the most critical lighting requirements to know:

• Street lighting is a required public improvement for all new subdivisions and developments
• Sign illumination must not exceed 1 foot-candle at commercial property lines
• Parking lot lighting must use shielded fixtures with 90-degree cut-off angles or less
• Historic District lighting has special requirements emphasizing indirect lighting
• Light trespass prevention is required for all exterior lighting (0 foot-candles at property lines)
• Electronic message centers must have automatic dimmers (max 4,600 NITS day/1,750 NITS night)
• Gas station canopies must use recessed lighting with no lens projecting below canopy ceiling

Street Lighting Systems

Lockport has comprehensive requirements for street lighting to ensure safety while maintaining aesthetic standards.

Technical Standards and Compliance

• All street lighting must conform to:
• Latest edition of the National Electric Code
• Commonwealth Edison service rules and policies
• IDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction
• IESNA RP-8 (American National Standard Practice for Roadway Lighting)

Pole Placement and Specifications

• Required locations: intersections, alley entrances, curves, cul-de-sacs, and street ends
• Maximum spacing: 360 feet on local streets
• Positioning requirements:
• Located on same side of street (unless directed otherwise)
• Aligned with side property lines (except at intersections)
• At least 3 feet from back of curb
• Not within 5 feet of fire hydrants
• Breakaway devices required if less than 6 feet from curb

Luminaire Requirements

• Approved types: High Pressure Sodium (HPS) or LED for local streets
• Special entrances: Subdivision entrances require twin fixture arms with two luminaires
• Documentation: Photometric calculations must be submitted for review and approval

Electrical Specifications

• Grounding: All poles require ground rods connected to pole ground lug
• Wiring: THHN 600-volt stranded copper for pole wire, XLP-Type USE for underground
• Safety features: Quick disconnect fuse holders required on power/neutral pole wires
• Conduit requirements:
• HDPE, PVC or galvanized steel duct/conduit
• 60% void space (calculations required)
• Minimum 30 inches of cover for trenches

Sign Illumination Requirements

Lockport's sign lighting regulations balance visibility with aesthetic concerns and prevention of light pollution.

General Sign Illumination Standards

• Light sources must be shielded to prevent glare
• Maximum illumination:
• 1 foot-candle at commercial property lines
• 50 foot-candles at 4 feet from sign face
• Hours of operation: Signs must be turned off between 11:00pm-7:00am or 30 minutes after close of business (whichever is later)
• Absolute cutoff: No illuminated signs after 1:00am
• Temporary signs cannot be illuminated

Electronic Message Centers

• Mounting restriction: Only permitted as part of monument signs
• Automatic dimming: Required to adjust for day/night conditions
• Maximum brightness:
• 4,600 NITS during daytime
• 1,750 NITS during nighttime
• Animation restrictions: Scrolling and animation allowed but no flashing, varying light intensity, blinking or video
• Certification: Manufacturer documentation required to confirm compliance

Historic District Special Requirements

• Primary method: Indirect lighting from shaded floodlights or gooseneck lamps
• Neon lighting: Allowed only as exposed tubing elements (not backlighting)
• Halo lighting: Permitted if light source is completely hidden behind opaque face
• Awnings: Cannot be internally illuminated; separate complementary fixtures required

Parking and Site Lighting

Parking Lot Lighting Standards

• Direction control: All lighting must be directed away from adjacent properties
• Light fixtures: Must use recessed, shielded or cut-off fixtures (90° cut-off angle or less)
• Light trespass prevention: Zero foot-candles required at property lines
• Maintenance requirements: Fixtures must be operational and free of damage/rust
• Review process: All lighting designs require review during site development approval

Specialized Site Lighting

• Gas stations: Under-canopy lighting must be recessed with no light lens projecting below canopy
• Rooftop restaurants/bars: Fixtures must eliminate glare with sharp cut-off at property line
• Outdoor seating: Lighting must be inwardly directed with no direct light or glare cast off premises
• Home occupations: Cannot generate glare beyond what's normal for the zoning district

What Property Owners Should Know

Maintenance Requirements

Property owners are responsible for maintaining lighting in good working condition. This includes:

• Keeping fixtures operational and free of damage or rust
• Ensuring trees and vegetation don't obstruct street lamps
• Maintaining compliance with maximum illumination levels

Common Compliance Issues

Many property owners encounter issues with:

• Light trespass - Light spilling onto neighboring properties
• Excessive brightness - Particularly with electronic signs and message boards
• Improper shielding - Leading to glare affecting streets and adjacent properties
• Historic District compliance - Special requirements for lighting type and installation

Planning for New Lighting

When planning new lighting installations, property owners should:

1. Understand zoning requirements specific to their property location
2. Consult professionals familiar with Lockport's lighting code
3. Submit required documentation including photometric calculations
4. Consider the historical context particularly in and near the Historic District

Supporting Lockport's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Lockport's commitment to balancing historical character with modern lighting needs. We understand the importance of preserving the distinctive architectural heritage of canal towns like Lockport while ensuring safety and functionality.

Our appreciation for Lockport's unique position as a gateway to the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor informs our approach to lighting solutions that respect the city's historical significance.

As a regional manufacturer with experience in historic communities, Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. Our understanding of the balance between preservation and modern technology enables us to support Lockport's vision for appropriate lighting that enhances its historic character.

Communities like Lockport benefit from lighting partners who understand that each solution must be tailored to preserve the distinctive character that makes the city special, while meeting modern safety and efficiency standards.

Conclusion

Lockport's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving its historic character while ensuring safe, functional lighting throughout the city. From the specific requirements for street lighting to the careful controls on sign illumination and site lighting, these regulations help maintain Lockport's distinctive atmosphere.

Property owners who understand and follow these guidelines not only avoid compliance issues but contribute to the city's efforts to honor its canal town heritage while embracing appropriate modern development. As Lockport continues to grow, these thoughtful lighting standards will help ensure that "the city that made Chicago famous" remains a shining example of historic preservation done right.