Lighting Regulations in Matteson, Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide for Property Owners

Introduction

Nestled in the Chicago metropolitan area, Matteson, Illinois has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1855 by German immigrant Frederick Illgen. Named after Joel Aldrich Matteson, the 10th Governor of Illinois, this village has grown from a railroad-adjacent settlement into a vibrant, diverse suburban community.

As Matteson balances modern development with its historical character, lighting regulations have become an important part of maintaining community standards. These regulations serve multiple purposes: enhancing safety, preserving the visual landscape, and supporting the village's commitment to both growth and preservation.

Quick Reference Guide

Most Critical Lighting Requirements:

• Strobe Lights: Required at the front of occupancies, connected to fire detection systems
• Off-Street Parking: Must be illuminated from dusk until one hour after business closing
• Residential Street Lighting: Minimum 0.6 footcandles with 6:1 uniformity ratio
• Business Area Street Lighting: Minimum 1.2 footcandles with 3:1 uniformity ratio
• Liquor Establishments: Must be continuously illuminated during business hours
• Cannabis Businesses: No flashing lights, searchlights or spotlights permitted
• Accessory Structures: Electrical lighting circuit required for structures over 144 square feet

Fire Safety Lighting Requirements

Strobe Light Installation Requirements

Property owners in Matteson must pay careful attention to fire safety lighting requirements. The village code contains specific provisions for visual alarm indicators:

• Required Location: A strobe light must be installed at the front of each occupancy
• Visibility Standard: The strobe light must be visible from the street
• System Integration: Must be connected to the fire detection system to provide visual identification of affected occupancies

Flow Switch Connections

For additional safety, the code specifies requirements for flow switch connections:

• All flow switches must be connected to a strobe light
• The strobe light must activate when an alarm condition exists
• Preferred location is on the front of the occupancy in close proximity to the main entrance when possible

Commercial Property Lighting

Off-Street Parking Illumination

Under § 110.15 of the village code, commercial property owners have specific obligations regarding parking area lighting:

• Required Operation Hours: From dusk to one hour after the closing of adjacent businesses
• Applicable Areas: All off-street parking areas in commercial zones and shopping centers
• Responsibility: Falls to owners, managers, or their agents

Business District Street Lighting Standards

Matteson maintains higher illumination standards for business districts compared to residential areas:

• Minimum Illumination: 1.2 footcandles average maintained horizontal illumination
• Uniformity Standard: Ratio not exceeding three to one (average level to minimum point)
• Compliance Standard: Must meet or exceed the American National Standards Institute requirements

Specialized Business Lighting Requirements

Liquor Establishment Illumination

Businesses selling alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption face particular lighting requirements:

• Illumination Standard: Premises must be "continuously lighted during business hours"
• Light Type: Natural light or artificial white light
• Visibility Requirement: All parts of the interior must be clearly visible
• View Preservation: No arrangement of lights may obstruct the view from the street, road, or sidewalk

Cannabis Business Exterior Lighting

The village code places specific restrictions on exterior lighting for cannabis businesses:

• Prohibited Elements: No flashing lights, search lights, or spot lights
• General Restriction: No "similar lighting system" that would make these businesses stand out

Residential Lighting Standards

Accessory Structure Requirements

For residential properties with accessory structures:

• Threshold: Structures over 144 square feet
• Electrical Requirement: Must have an electrical circuit for a lighting outlet
• Safety Feature: Must include a ground fault protected receptacle outlet

Street Lighting in Residential Areas

Residential subdivisions in Matteson have specific street lighting standards:

• Placement: Required at all street intersections within or abutting subdivisions
• Additional Locations: As designated by the Village Engineer
• Illumination Level: Minimum average maintained horizontal illumination of 0.6 footcandles
• Uniformity Ratio: Not exceeding six to one (average level to minimum point)

Parks and Public Spaces

Park Lighting and Access

The village code addresses lighting in relation to park access:

• Access Restriction: No person shall be in the park system between dusk and dawn
• Exception: Lighted areas are exempt from this restriction
• Alternative Access: Written authorization from the Director is required for after-hours access to unlighted areas

Supporting Matteson's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Matteson's commitment to balancing modern functionality with historical character. As a manufacturer with deep regional understanding, Bock appreciates Matteson's approach to lighting regulations that support both community safety and aesthetic priorities.

Our experience working with communities like Matteson has given us insight into how lighting can enhance community character while meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Bock Lighting understands the importance of preserving the distinct visual landscape that makes Matteson unique while incorporating necessary modern lighting technologies.

As a regional partner, we're committed to serving as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. Our understanding of both historical architectural needs and modern lighting standards aligns with Matteson's balanced approach to community development.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning and Compliance Tips

Understanding Matteson's lighting requirements is essential when planning property improvements:

• New Developments: Must include detailed lighting plans for approval
• Retrofits: Consider both safety requirements and aesthetic standards
• Inspections: Licensed premises are subject to inspection for adequacy of illumination
• Street Lighting: Must comply with American National Standard Practice for Roadway Lighting

Special Event Considerations

When planning special events in Matteson:

• Permit Requirements: Applications must specify the type of lighting equipment to be used
• Power Source: Must be identified in the permit application
• Existing Infrastructure: Existing utility poles and light standards should be used whenever practicable

Conclusion

Matteson's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to safety, accessibility, and preservation of community character. From fire safety requirements to street illumination standards, these regulations help maintain Matteson's balance of historical character and modern functionality.

Property owners should consult the full village code or contact local officials for specific guidance on lighting requirements for their particular situation. By understanding and following these regulations, residents and business owners contribute to the visual harmony and safety of this diverse and historically rich community.