Lighting Regulations in Manteno, Illinois: Balancing Safety, Functionality, and Community Character

Introduction

Established in 1855, Manteno, Illinois has evolved from its agricultural roots and strategic location along the Illinois Central Railroad into a charming village of approximately 9,000 residents. Located about 50 miles south of Chicago, Manteno offers a unique blend of rural and suburban living while maintaining connections to its historical heritage.

The village's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving community character while ensuring public safety and modern functionality. From the historic Manteno State Hospital (opened in 1930 and operated until 1983) to the vibrant residential and commercial areas of today, Manteno's lighting standards aim to create well-lit, safe environments that respect neighboring properties and maintain the town's aesthetic appeal.

Quick Reference Guide

Key Lighting Requirements in Manteno:

• Light Trespass Control: Maximum 0.5 foot-candles allowed at property lines
• Direction: All exterior lighting must direct light away from adjoining properties
• Shielding: Exposed light sources must be shielded with cutoff lenses
• Street Lighting: 30-foot mounting height single lighting units required for residential areas
• Spacing: Maximum 350 feet between streetlights
• Required Locations: Streetlights required at all intersections and cul-de-sacs
• Glare Prevention: Direct or reflected glare must not be visible at property lines

General Property Lighting Standards

Light Trespass Control

Manteno takes light trespass seriously to protect residents from unwanted illumination. Key requirements include:

• Maximum illumination at any property line cannot exceed 0.5 foot-candles
• All fixtures must include refractors to direct light away from property lines
• Exceptions may be granted for security, outdoor dining, or other uses if no negative impacts on adjacent properties can be demonstrated

Glare Prevention Requirements

Glare control is essential for both safety and community aesthetics:

• Direct or reflected glare from floodlights or high-temperature processes must not be visible at any property line
• Operations producing glare must be performed within completely enclosed buildings
• Exposed light sources must be shielded
• Intense light sources must be controlled to prevent nuisance across lot lines

Direction and Mounting

The village has specific requirements for fixture mounting and light direction:

• Exterior lights in Building Lighting Zones must be mounted between 6 feet and 14 feet above adjacent grade
• All exterior lighting must direct light away from adjoining properties
• Fixtures where light is visible to the public must be equipped with refractors to direct light downward

Commercial and Business Lighting

Amusement Establishments

Amusement establishments have specific lighting requirements:

• All rooms must be continuously lighted during business hours by natural light or artificial white light
• Interior must be illuminated so that all parts are clearly visible

Parking Areas

Parking areas have special lighting considerations:

• Lighting must be screened or shrouded to avoid interference with residential properties
• Specific lighting design and illumination must be approved by the code enforcement officer
• Driveways, accessways, and parking areas must be illuminated sufficiently to create a safe environment
• All lighting must be glare-free and directed away from adjoining properties
• Permanently fixed downdraft lighting utilizing shadow boxes to direct light downward is required

Street Lighting Requirements

Residential Areas

Street lighting in residential areas must meet specific standards:

• 30-foot mounting height single lighting units required
• Units must be installed a minimum of 3 feet behind back of curb
• Required at all intersections and cul-de-sacs
• Maximum spacing between streetlights: 350 feet

Industrial Areas

Industrial area street lighting has additional requirements:

• 27-foot pole with a 10-foot arm and single LED luminaire mounted at 30 feet
• Specific luminaire models required: General Electric ERL 1008E 140AGRAYG or approved equal
• Units must be installed a minimum of 6 feet behind back of curb

Technical Specifications

Street lighting must meet detailed technical specifications:

• Wiring must be heat and moisture resistant, XLP-type USE, copper wire, minimum of no. 8 AWG
• Insulation rating of 600 volts required
• Continuous runs without splices from service pedestal to lighting unit and between units
• All unit ducts and conduits must be installed at least 30 inches below finish grade
• Maximum voltage drop for any branch circuit: 6%
• Each lighting unit must be mounted on a reinforced concrete foundation

Sign Illumination Standards

Signs with lighting must follow specific regulations:

• All illuminated signs must be constructed in accordance with the National Electrical Code
• External lighting of signs must be directed away from public right of way and adjoining properties
• Rotating beams, beacons, or devices resembling emergency or traffic signals are prohibited
• Electronic message boards may only display time, temperature, alphanumeric text, logos, and graphics
• Flashing lights, strobe lights, moving lights, continuous scrolling are strictly prohibited
• Temporary signs may be illuminated by external means only (e.g., light bulb)
• Illumination cannot be flashing

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Wind Energy Systems

Wind energy systems have specific lighting requirements:

• Lighting for towers must be constructed in accordance with minimum FAA requirements
• Design must minimize visual impact of the structures

Outdoor Storage Areas

Outdoor storage areas must have appropriate lighting controls:

• Lighting must be directed away from surrounding properties
• Facilities must meet specifications set by the Code Enforcement Officer

Medical Cannabis Facilities

Medical cannabis facilities may have enhanced lighting requirements:

• Security lighting may be required beyond standard requirements
• Enhancements may be needed at the request of the village to ensure safety

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning and Approval Process

When installing or modifying lighting, property owners should be aware of these requirements:

• Photometric plans are required for many lighting installations
• Light fixture specifications must be submitted for approval
• For street lighting, detailed plans showing pole locations, unit duct routing, and power sources are needed
• Lighting calculations and design parameters must be provided
• Voltage drop calculations showing compliance with the 6% maximum allowable drop

Standards and Compliance

Property owners should understand these compliance requirements:

• All lighting must conform to the National Electrical Code (latest edition)
• "American National Standard Practice For Roadway Lighting" (ANSI/IES RP-8)
• Illuminating Engineering Society of America "Lighting For Parking Facilities" (IESNA RP-20)
• Local codes, ordinances, and development standards of the village

Supporting Manteno's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the importance of balancing modern lighting needs with community character. As a manufacturer with extensive experience in the Midwest, Bock appreciates Manteno's efforts to maintain its small-town charm while ensuring safe, functional lighting.

Communities like Manteno benefit from lighting solutions that respect local regulations while providing effective illumination for streets, businesses, and public spaces. Bock's experience with projects that honor community character makes them a valuable resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations.

Understanding regional architectural styles and lighting needs is essential when implementing lighting solutions that enhance rather than detract from a community's appearance. Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns with Manteno's vision for balanced development that preserves its historical heritage.

Conclusion

Manteno's lighting regulations reflect a thoughtful approach to illumination that prioritizes safety and functionality while respecting neighboring properties and community character. By directing light appropriately, controlling glare, and following technical specifications, property owners can ensure their lighting enhances Manteno's appearance while meeting regulatory requirements.

Whether installing residential exterior lighting, commercial signage, or street lighting for new developments, understanding and following these regulations helps maintain Manteno's unique character as it continues to grow and evolve while honoring its historical roots.