Lighting Regulations in Mansfield, Ohio: Balancing Historic Character with Modern Standards

Introduction

Founded in 1808, Mansfield, Ohio stands as one of the state's oldest communities, with a rich architectural heritage that reflects over two centuries of development. As one of the highest-elevation cities in Ohio, nestled in the western foothills of the Allegheny Plateau, Mansfield's unique geography has influenced its growth and character over generations.

The city's lighting regulations reflect a delicate balance between preserving its historical charm and meeting modern safety and functionality needs. These regulations are designed to maintain the aesthetic integrity of Mansfield's various neighborhoods while ensuring sufficient illumination for public safety.

Quick Reference Guide

• Street lighting is funded by 8% of a specific income tax levy
• Subdivision lighting must meet Illuminating Engineering Society standards
• Residential yards may use post-type yard lights with underground wiring
• Business lighting must not shine onto adjacent properties or impair traffic
• Sign illumination in residential areas limited to indirect lighting only
• Electronic message displays limited to 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light
• Swimming pool lighting must be shaded away from neighboring properties
• Mini-warehouses must use "dark sky compliant" lighting

Subdivision and Street Lighting Requirements

Standard Street Lighting Systems

Each new subdivision in Mansfield must include a properly installed and operational street lighting system. This system must adhere to the recommendations for vehicular roadway lighting levels established by the Illuminating Engineering Society.

Working drawings of proposed lighting plans require review by the City Engineer and approval by the City Planning Commission during the final subdivision plat approval process.

Alternative Post-Type Yard Lights

Residential developers have the option to install post-type yard lights instead of a conventional street lighting system. These alternatives must meet specific requirements:

• One light minimum per lot or parcel when a new principal building is constructed
• Underground wiring required for all installations
• Placement within 10 feet of the street right-of-way line
• Automatic operation via photoelectric cell or electrical timer
• Homeowner responsibility for maintenance, repair, and power costs

The subdivision plat and/or protective covenants must clearly state the property owners' responsibility for these lighting systems.

Commercial and Business Lighting Standards

General Requirements

Businesses in Mansfield must adhere to several important lighting principles:

• No traffic impairment - Lighting must never interfere with safe movement of traffic
• Neighbor protection - Light must not shine directly onto adjacent properties
• Appropriate shielding - All lighting must be arranged to direct illumination away from residential areas

Specialized Business Requirements

Different business types have specific requirements:

Auto Sales and Service

• Lighting must be carefully designed to avoid traffic impairment
• Direct light spillover onto neighboring properties prohibited

Mini-Warehouses and Storage Facilities

• Must utilize "dark sky compliant" lighting fixtures
• Designed to minimize light pollution and upward light scatter

Adult Entertainment Venues

• Minimum illumination of 1.0 foot-candle measured at floor level
• Requirement for overhead lighting fixtures of sufficient intensity
• Management responsible for maintaining required illumination levels

Residential Lighting Standards

Basic Requirements

Mansfield's code establishes minimum standards for residential illumination:

• Habitable rooms require at least two electric outlets or one outlet plus one ceiling light
• Utility spaces (bathrooms, laundry rooms, furnace rooms) require at least one ceiling or wall light
• All fixtures must be properly installed, maintained, and safely connected
• Basements used as habitable spaces must have adequate light and ventilation

Swimming Pool Lighting

Family swimming pools have specific lighting requirements:

• Lighting must be arranged and shaded to direct light away from adjoining properties
• Fixtures must be positioned to avoid casting light onto neighboring streets

Sign Illumination Regulations

Residential and Low-Intensity Business Districts

In residential areas and B-1 Business Districts, sign lighting has strict limitations:

• Only indirect lighting is permitted
• Light sources must be concealed from street view
• No flashing or intermittent illumination allowed

Multi-Family Identification Signs

Signs for apartment buildings and multi-family developments must follow these illumination rules:

• No internal illumination permitted
• External illumination allowed only if it creates no glare on adjacent properties
• No traffic hazards may be created by lighting
• Light sources must be screened from street visibility

Electronic Message Display (EMD) Signs

Digital display signs must adhere to strict standards:

• Display duration of at least 10 seconds minimum
• No animation including moving, flashing, scrolling or rolling text
• Size limitations of 24-inch maximum letter/number height
• Brightness restrictions not exceeding 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light
• Only one EMD permitted per site

Brightness Measurement Protocol

1. Measure ambient light with display off or showing black content
2. Turn display to full white content and take second reading
3. Difference must not exceed 0.3 foot-candles

Construction and Safety Lighting

Work Site Illumination

Construction and excavation sites require proper safety lighting:

• Warning lights at night for any excavation, well, cesspool, or structure under construction
• Barricades with warning lights required to prevent dangerous conditions
• Protection of lighting equipment - removing or damaging barricades or warning lights prohibited

Tree Maintenance Near Lights

Property owners must maintain trees near lighting fixtures:

• Minimum clearance of 6 feet required between branches and light fixtures
• Regular trimming required to maintain proper clearance

Supporting Mansfield's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Mansfield's commitment to balancing historical preservation with modern functionality. As a manufacturer familiar with the region's architectural heritage, Bock understands the importance of lighting solutions that complement Mansfield's historic character while meeting contemporary standards.

Our expertise in lighting design can help property owners navigate the specific requirements outlined in Mansfield's building code. With over a century of experience serving Ohio communities, we appreciate the unique blend of historical significance and practical needs that shape Mansfield's approach to lighting regulations.

Bock Lighting's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Mansfield's regulations, particularly requirements like "dark sky compliant" fixtures for certain applications. As a community partner, we're dedicated to supporting Mansfield's lighting vision through education and quality lighting solutions that respect the city's distinctive character.

Conclusion

Mansfield's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to maintaining its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. From subdivision street lighting to sign illumination standards, these requirements aim to create a cohesive, well-lit community that respects neighboring properties and preserves the city's unique identity.

Property owners should carefully review the specific requirements applicable to their situation, particularly regarding placement, shielding, and brightness limitations. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to the preservation of Mansfield's distinctive aesthetic while enjoying the benefits of appropriate, effective lighting.

For specific questions about compliance with Mansfield's lighting regulations, property owners should consult with the City's Codes & Permits Department before making significant changes to existing lighting systems or installing new fixtures.