Lighting Regulations in Marlow, Oklahoma: Balancing Small-Town Charm with Modern Standards

Introduction: Preserving Marlow's Character Through Thoughtful Lighting

Nestled along the historic Chisholm Trail, Marlow, Oklahoma has a rich history dating back to the 1880s when Dr. Williamson Marlow and his wife, Martha Jane, first settled in the Wildhorse Creek area. Today, this charming community of approximately 4,400 residents maintains a delicate balance between honoring its historical roots and embracing modern development.

Lighting regulations play an important role in preserving Marlow's small-town character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. Though Marlow's lighting code is not extensive, the regulations that do exist reflect the community's values and priorities.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements in Marlow

Before diving into details, here's a quick overview of the most important lighting regulations in Marlow:

• Maximum Light Output: Lighting shall not exceed 1,000 watts per light (applies to specific facilities)
• Sign Illumination: Maximum illumination of 70 footcandles (measured at 2 feet from source)
• Street Light Height: Maximum height of 30 feet above ground
• Street Light Spacing: Maximum spacing of 500 feet apart
• Light Nuisance: Light and glare that interferes with reasonable enjoyment of life and property is prohibited
• Specialized Lights: Revolving red and blue lights are prohibited
• Dimming Requirements: Incandescent lamp message centers must dim to 80% of daytime brightness during nighttime hours

Nuisance Lighting Regulations

When Light Becomes a Nuisance

Marlow's code addresses light pollution primarily through nuisance provisions. These regulations ensure that lighting from various facilities doesn't negatively impact neighbors or the community at large.

Prohibited Light Impacts

A public nuisance may be deemed to exist if a facility produces:

• Light or glare that is detrimental to public health, safety, or welfare
• Lighting that interferes with the reasonable enjoyment of life and property

Facilities Specifically Addressed

These nuisance lighting provisions apply to several specific types of facilities:

• Marijuana dispensaries
• Marijuana growing operations
• Marijuana processing facilities
• Marijuana testing facilities
• Educational or research facilities related to marijuana
• Marijuana disposal operations

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Requirements

Signs in Marlow must adhere to specific illumination standards to prevent excessive brightness and light pollution.

Technical Specifications

• Maximum Illumination: No sign shall exceed 70 footcandles as measured at a 2-foot distance from the source
• Constant Light Requirement: Illumination must be provided by constant light
• Revolving Lights: No revolving red or blue lights are allowed

Special Requirements for Digital Message Centers

Incandescent lamp message centers have additional requirements:

• Dimming Capability: Must utilize a dimming feature during dark hours
• Nighttime Reduction: Must dim to no more than 80% of normal daytime watts
• Strobe Prohibition: Cannot be programmed to function as a strobe in an on-and-off display mode
• Setback Requirements: Electric message centers using incandescent light must have an additional 20-foot setback from the minimum setback

Street and Public Lighting Requirements

Park Lighting Standards

Streets and driveways within parks have specific illumination requirements:

• Must meet current standards of the Illuminating Engineering Society
• Or provide at least one-half (1/2) candlepower, whichever is higher

Street Light Specifications

For street lights throughout Marlow:

• Maximum Height: Fixtures must be mounted no more than 30 feet above ground
• Spacing: Located no more than 500 feet apart (unless approved by City Administrator)
• Intersection Requirement: At least one light at each public or private street intersection
• Alternative Designs: Post top luminaries may be permitted with City Administrator approval

Development Requirements

For new developments:

• Developers may provide street lights prior to final plat approval
• Fixtures and standards/poles must be approved by the City and utility company
• Developers must pay costs for poles, fixtures, and all related materials
• City assumes maintenance no earlier than two years after installation
• Written approval from electric utility company is required

Commercial and Special Use Lighting

Convenience Store Light Pole Signs

• One sign not exceeding 15 square feet is permitted
• Must be mounted to an on-site light pole with permanent bracket
• Must be between 3 feet and 10 feet from the ground
• Permitted along each direction of store frontage along a major street/highway
• Cannot be mounted on City-owned poles

Facility and Site Plan Requirements

Several types of developments require lighting plans as part of approval:

• Recreational Vehicle Campground/Park applications must show lighting
• Cell tower applications must include a lighting plan
• Site plans in R-4, R-MHC, C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1, or I-2 Districts must show light poles

Tower Lighting Restrictions

• Towers shall not be artificially lighted unless required by the FAA or other authority

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Light Nuisance

The most common lighting regulation in Marlow pertains to creating a nuisance through excessive light or glare. To avoid violations:

• Direct lights downward and away from neighboring properties
• Use shielded fixtures to prevent light trespass
• Adjust brightness to appropriate levels for the setting

Planning for New Development

If you're developing property in Marlow:

• Include lighting in site plans for applicable zoning districts
• Budget for street lighting if developing a subdivision
• Consider light placement to meet spacing and intersection requirements
• Get utility approval for service points and street lights

Sign Illumination Compliance

For illuminated business signs:

• Measure light levels to ensure they don't exceed 70 footcandles
• Install dimming capabilities for message centers
• Maintain constant light rather than flashing or strobing effects
• Avoid red and blue revolving lights which are prohibited

Supporting Marlow's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting: Understanding Small-Town Character

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, shares Marlow's appreciation for balancing historical character with modern functionality. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer, we understand the unique lighting needs of communities that value their heritage while providing safe, functional spaces for residents and visitors.

A Partner in Preserving Community Character

Communities like Marlow recognize that appropriate lighting enhances rather than detracts from their distinctive atmosphere. Bock Lighting appreciates this balance and serves as a resource for understanding how lighting choices impact community character and regulatory compliance.

Regional Expertise for Local Needs

Our experience with communities similar to Marlow has given us insight into the lighting solutions that respect the scale and character of small towns with rich histories. We understand that lighting in Marlow isn't just about illumination—it's about preserving the unique sense of place that makes the community special.

Education and Community Support

Beyond manufacturing, Bock Lighting is committed to helping communities understand lighting regulations and best practices. We believe that education about responsible lighting practices supports Marlow's vision for maintaining its small-town charm while meeting modern needs.

Conclusion

Marlow's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to maintaining a comfortable, attractive community while allowing for necessary development and growth. Though not extensive, these regulations address key concerns about light nuisance, appropriate illumination levels, and public lighting standards.

Property owners and businesses should be particularly mindful of the nuisance provisions and sign illumination requirements, as these appear to be priorities within the code. By respecting these regulations, community members contribute to preserving Marlow's unique character—a town where history and progress illuminate each other.

For specific guidance on compliance with Marlow's lighting regulations, property owners should consult with the city's planning or building departments before installing new lighting systems.